Tyler Adams believes anything can happen for US in World Cup
Tyler Adams, who has been the best player for the United States at the World Cup, is leaving all doors open at the tournament. After helping the Stars and Stripes advance to the round of 16, the Leeds United midfielder talked to ABC’s Good Morning America about the result.
Adams collapsed onto his knees upon hearing the full time whistle in the win over Iran. He played every minute of the group stage games against Wales, England and Iran. His tenacity in the midfield both offensively and defensively is one of the key reasons the USMNT advanced to play the Netherlands on Saturday.
Therefore, his self-proclaimed relief at the end of the Iran game is no surprise. Adams says getting out of the group was the first step. Now, the team can make a proper run for American glory.
“For us, it was our goal 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 setting, we might be the underdogs, but anything can happen.”
Certainly, the United States is an underdog against the Netherlands. However, Adams later added that the young mentality of this squad is actually a benefit, despite the likeliness of advancing dwindling.
“We’re a fearless group,” Adams said. “Brave, relentless, diverse. We have all the qualities of a team that can go out and win this [World Cup]. We have confidence in out group, and now it is about going out and executing.”
Tyler Adams embraces challenge of the World Cup
Executing will be a tough task against a top Dutch side. Virgil van Dijk, Frenkie de Jong and Cody Gakpo are having sensational tournaments. However, the United States has experience playing well against strong sides.
A case exists to argue that United States outplayed England in their scoreless draw on Black Friday. England is more talented than the upcoming Dutch contingent.
Regardless, the Netherlands is a difficult opponent for the United States. Tyler Adams will not care, as he sees huge potential for this American team.
PHOTO: IMAGO / Fotoarena