5 Threats That Could Derail USMNT's Round of 16 Bid

The USMNT eyes a deep World Cup run, but several obstacles loom. First, their group stage fixture list is brutal: England's Harry Kane-led attack, Iran's disciplined defense, and Wales' Gareth Bale magic. Second, inconsistency in the final third has haunted the squad—Christian Pulisic must deliver. Third, defensive injuries: losing center-back Chris Richards would expose the backline. Fourth, the knockout curse: the USMNT has historically struggled in single-elimination games. Fifth, fatigue fro...