Soccer punch to U.S. fans as Belgium ekes out win

U.S. soccer fans are reeling after Belgium beat the American side during the knockout round of the World Cup.

In Philadelphia, hundreds groaned inside the Piazza at Schmidt’s in Northern Liberties after watching the 2-1 loss on the outdoor plaza’s giant television screen.

Andrew Alexander was beside himself after watching the final seconds tick away.

“The only person that can soothe me right now is [Fresh Air’s] Terry Gross and her voice. She is the only person that can explain to me that we lost right now,” said Alexander.

Kevin Grummun painted his beard red, white and blue for the game, but walked away feeling green.

“It’s just disappointing. They didn’t play great, but they gave themselves a chance and it’s just tough,” said Grunnum.

Others crushed a couple of the empty beer cans that littered the ground before heading home to patiently wait for the next U.S. chance at the World Cup in four years.

The match remained scoreless through regulation thanks in large part to U.S. goalie Tim Howard’s record-setting day.

The veteran tallied 16 saves, the most since they started tracking the stat a half-century ago.

Howard and his teammates, however, could not hold off the Belgians in overtime — or cash in on some golden opportunities to score themselves.

Sunil Mistry is still proud of the American team’s efforts.

“The U.S. did a great job. They did the best that they could,” said Mistry. “I’m a little upset, but it’s the World Cup. I feel like the U.S. has nothing but positive things to say about our team. We’ll look forward to the next four years. We’ll come back even stronger.”

The World Cup final is set for July 13.