It wasn't easy, but the United States Men's National Team escaped their matchday three clash with Iran securing a 1-0 win.
A Christian Pulisic goal in the first half was enough for the US, as they largely stifled any big Iranian chances throughout the match.
CHRISTIAN PULISIC (-100 ML) PUTS USA IN THE LEAD 🇺🇸pic.twitter.com/r09iaqhGtC
— Action Network (@ActionNetworkHQ) November 29, 2022
That win earned the US a spot in the World Cup round of 16 against the Netherlands, who are as solid as they come in terms of team construction.
Led by near Ballon d'Or center back Virgil van Dijk, the Dutch topped Group A with two wins (Senegal, Qatar) and a draw (Ecuador).
Opening odds at DraftKings indicate that the Netherlands are a slight favorite to win the match inside 90 minutes and a solid favorite to advance out of the fixture.
The three-way moneyline has Netherlands at -120, a draw at +260 and the United States at +340, but the Oranje are -250 to advance into the quarterfinals.
USA last played in the round of 16 in 2014, when they fell to Belgium 2-1 in extra time. The game was tied 0-0 after 90 minutes, though the Belgians did control the game. A heroic effort from goalkeeper Tim Howard kept the US alive throughout the match.
Manager Gregg Berhalter's team will be looking to better that result on Saturday at 10 a.m. ET, as a historic opportunity awaits for his team.
