The Soccer vs Football derby was a lot closer than many expected. In fact, it was too close to separate either side.
The USMNT put in a much-improved performance compared to the 1-1 draw against Wales, often keeping England on the back foot via counter-attacks, but it wasn't quite enough to defeat the Three Lions in a scoreless draw on Friday.
Gregg Berhalter's men can feel proud about much of their performance, having created plenty of chances against a sluggish Three Lions team. England looked like a shell of itself after hammering Iran 6-2 in its opener.
It wasn't enough, though, and now there are more questions than answers. After Iran's win over Wales earlier in the day, the draw does little to help the U.S., which will still need to win its final game to advance to the knockout round.
Did the Stars and Stripes expend too much energy trying to make a statement against England? We'll see. World Cups are grueling, and the U.S. will now face what is essentially a round of 32 game against Iran with it all to play for.
Thankfully, there were no injuries or suspensions earned, but recovery will be key in the coming days. The optimist will say that the USMNT built momentum and confidence against the group favorites, but the pessimist will say that it may have done so at the expense of its own energy levels.
The Soccer vs Football debate wasn't decided on Friday night, even as Soccer earned respect from the Three Lions, but neither was Group B as it'll all go down to the wire for the USMNT.
