Tyler Adams, who has been the best player for the United States in the World Cup, leaves all the doors open in the tournament. After helping the Stars and Stripes progress to the round of 16, the Leeds United midfielder spoke to ABC’s Good Morning America about the result.
Adams collapsed to his knees at the full-time whistle in the win over Iran. He played every minute in the group stage matches against Wales, England and Iran. His tenacity in midfield, both offensively and defensively, is one of the key reasons the USMNT advanced to play the Netherlands on Saturday.
Therefore, his self-proclaimed late-game relief from Iran is not a surprise. Adams says leaving the group was the first step. Now, the team can make a proper run for American glory.
“For us, our goal was to get out of the group,” Adams told Good Morning America on Wednesday. “Now, anything can happen. We have that American mentality that, in a playoff scenario, we may be the underdog, but anything can happen.”
Certainly, the United States is not a favorite against the Netherlands. However, Adams later added that this team’s youthful mentality is actually a benefit, despite the likelihood of it going up and down.
“We are a fearless bunch,” Adams said. “Brave, relentless, diverse. We have all the qualities of a team that can go out to win this [World Cup]. We have confidence in our group, and now it’s all about going out there and executing.”
Tyler Adams accepts the World Cup challenge
Executing will be a tough task against a top Dutch team. Virgil van Dijk, Frenkie de Jong and are having sensational tournaments. However, the United States has experience playing well against strong teams.
There is a case to be made that the United States edged England to their goalless draw on Black Friday. England have more talent than the next Dutch contingent.
Regardless, the Netherlands is a difficult opponent for the United States. Tyler Adams won’t mind, as he sees great potential for this American team.
PHOTO: IMAGO / Fotoarena
