Sometimes it’s tough to face the cold, hard light of day after a loss, but the way in which the US got nuked to make their Round of 16 game a no-win situation apparently requires multiple light of days for yours truly. The men’s program deserved better, no two ways about it. Through no actions taken by anyone within US Soccer, much less the team itself, they’re now tasked with rebuilding something they didn’t destroy. My heart goes out to the players and staff, especially.

On to the news

So passes the time of Gabriel Pirani after 83 appearances for DCU.

DC Power have made some signings, including a Maryland native.

It’s a romance series event hosted by The Spirit. Seems like fun for those who enjoy that crossover, but don’t ask me for any other details, that’s not my turf.

Tears of relief? Messi adds another incredible chapter to World Cup career– BBC

Egypt want officials kicked out of World Cup– BBC

Argentina’s late flurry of goals to reverse a two goal deficit lit up the internet. There are two very different takeaways from the respective sides in the aftermath.

Perhaps best to judge for yourself based on the plays which narrative you find the most accurate.

Switzerland overcome penalty ‘curse’ to oust Colombia at World Cup– ESPN

Switzerland win their first ever World Cup contest through a penalty kick shootout. “Curse” seems a bit strong for what they overcame to win this- they’ve only ever faced one penalty shootout at the tournament before in 2006 against Ukraine. However, given that this would make it one success in 6 across all competitions, I guess we can say, well done on that front. Colombia have played admirably this tournament, and will feel disappointed to not extend their knockout stay this summer.

The games are getting more sparse, so, here’s the highlight link.

FIFA reportedly suspended 2 U.S. Soccer officials before USMNT’s loss to Belgium– Yahoo

Unfortunately, there is no clarification from FIFA as yet for these suspensions, the article only provides surrounding details and minor speculation. Needless to say, this seems unhelpful by the international governing body, but, what else is new.

USMNT 2030 World Cup roster prediction: Who are the 26 players that could lead USA soccer in next edition?– CBS

I personally find most of the takes on the US’s exit from the tournament that don’t include the words “emotional exhaustion,” “political interference,” and “interrupted training process” to be pretty off base, and therefore not gonna platform them here. So, here is instead an article detailing the current depth chart for the next cycle, which only truly needs a coaching decision to officially begin.

Morocco set a proud example for Africa as France await at World Cup– The Guardian

No opponent has or will benefit from overlooking Morocco as an opponent, but France have been imperious, and rarely bothered on the field so far this tournament. Both teams are astonishingly technically sharp, should be a great match for those who love skilled play to dominate on the field.

France vs Morocco at 4 PM Eastern on FOX

Ranking All Eight Teams Left in the 2026 World Cup– The Guardian

Finally, The Guardian assesses the teams that will compete in the quarterfinals, the 8 nations remaining who can contend for the trophy and World Cup history.

That’s all I’ve got for today! One-up me in the comments, and have a great sporting day!