How will America's early exit in the World Cup affect the future of USA Soccer?

The FIFA men’s World Cup 2026 continues today with quarterfinal action.

Once again, the United States is absent from the round after being throttled by Belgium, 4-1, earlier in the week. In the past five World Cup tournaments, the U.S. has failed to reach the quarterfinals. This latest elimination was particularly stinging, considering the U.S. is one of the hosts of this World Cup.

While it lasted, soccer fans in the New York City area — and beyond — got to experience the thrills of the World Cup fresh off the New York Knicks winning their first NBA championship in 53 years. A total of seven World Cup games were played in MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, culminating with the eighth in the form of the Final on Sunday, July 19.

Sure, it would have been nice for the host U.S. to still be alive in the World Cup, but will the country’s early bow out affect the future of USA soccer?

Although it might not affect enrollment at the youth level, it could hurt motivation, according to longtime Martin Luther King High School head coach Martin Jacobson, whose soccer program is a dynasty, having won 21 New York City championships in his 30 years at the helm.

“These young players would get more encouragement by a better run from the US National Team,” Jacobson conceded to DAZN News. “It would encourage them more to pursue it.”

More than anything, Jacobson believes a longer run in the World Cup from the U.S. would have spelled a boost in self-esteem for the next wave of American soccer players.

“A deeper run would give this pride on even a younger level than I work with,” Jacobson offered. “It would motivate kids to do better.

“Pride,” he continued. “Pride is a big word. You lose a lot of pride when you lose so devastatingly.”

The World Cup quarterfinals continue tonight with England facing Norway in Miami Gardens, Florida, and Argentina up against Switzerland in Kansas City, Missouri.

France and Spain have already advanced to their semifinal matchup which will be played on Tuesday, July 14.