re: Is US soccer gaining respect abroad faster than here in the states?

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Absolutely. Most Americans have unrealistic expectations, wondering how in the world a tiny nation like Belgium can beat the mighty USA. Elsewhere in the world, they get it. They know Belgium is one of the best young sides in the world, for example

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I agree with this. Americans just tend to have the mentality of, "well, if we try then we'll easily be the best." But there's no immediate gratification with this sport. We started so long after most of these countries and were so far behind them, it will take time to get going. But I think these tournaments have shown the growth of the sport and quality of American players moreso than what the international community had expected and realized.