:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/35063097/20140626_ajl_bt1_103.JPG.0.jpg)
The USA faces their first task in the round of 16, a showdown with dark horse Belgium. Though without several key players, Belgium should present a very real challenge for the US, especially with the likes of Chelsea wonderkid Eden Hazard prowling the midfield. That said, it would be a huge day in American Soccer if they can find a way to beat the Belgians and advance. The United States are likely to have Jozy Altidore back, for better or worse. Time will tell.
In other world cup soccer news, both African teams in the final 16, Algeria and Nigeria, were promptly bounced from the tournament by Germany and France respectively. There's also some fresh news of potential match-fixing that occurred in the group stages involving the Cameroon national team. More news of that to come.
The game starts at 4pm eastern time. You can discuss the match in this open thread.