Goalkeeper Matt Freese remains troubled by the United States’ exit from the 2026 World Cup, where Belgium earned a 4-1 victory in the round of 16.
Speaking in Charlotte ahead of the MLS All-Star Game, Freese acknowledged that the defeat may stay with him throughout his career. He said painful losses in important moments do not simply disappear and can provide lasting motivation.
Freese’s mistake gives Belgium a 3-1 lead
Freese made a costly error in the 57th minute. He rushed well outside his penalty area to meet a long ball, hesitated while trying to clear it under pressure and watched Belgium turn the mistake into the goal that made it 3-1.
The New York City FC goalkeeper faced a hostile response in Columbus, Ohio, during his first MLS appearance after the World Cup. He was reportedly booed whenever he touched the ball.
Freese said he cannot allow one bad moment to define him, just as he does not want positive moments to determine how he approaches his career. His focus is on providing consistent energy and remaining a steady presence.
United States players consider the next step
Freese is one of four United States players chosen for the MLS All-Star Game. Tim Ream, another member of that group, said there is no secret formula for taking the Americans beyond the World Cup’s round of 16.
Ream instead emphasized sustained work, arguing that progress comes from continuing to push until the barrier is finally broken. Despite the loss to Belgium, he believes better results are possible.
Wing-back Max Arfsten said the increased attention generated by a World Cup played mostly in the United States could encourage more athletes to take up soccer. In his view, a larger player pool would create stronger competition and could eventually put more Americans in Europe’s leading leagues.
Ream said the players can remain disappointed by the way they “crashed out” against Belgium while still taking pride in their earlier performances and the tournament’s effect on the country. He described the experience as fun and credited the team with helping galvanize interest in the sport.
Freese also urged the United States to use the tournament’s positive impact to inspire future players. He wants new generations to move beyond the round of 16 and eventually reach the quarterfinals, semifinals and final.
Messi misses the MLS All-Star Game in Charlotte
Charlotte FC owner Dave Tepper’s Bank of America Stadium is hosting the MLS All-Star Game for the first time, but Messi will not take part. He is using allotted time off before returning to Inter Miami CF and has been replaced on the roster.
Messi helped Argentina reach the World Cup final before its loss to Spain. He has scored 12 goals in MLS play this season and has also supplied assists.
Several players, including Ream, have noticed stronger interest in MLS and soccer since the World Cup. Ream said the attention has become so intense that he can barely leave his house, though he is not complaining.
Competing and winning remain the players’ primary responsibilities, Ream said, but he considers it rewarding to know that more people are following the sport and may be inspired to play.