If anything could have dampened the celebrations following the United States men's national -

soccer team's victory against Iran on Tuesday, it was the looming figure on the horizon.

The Netherlands has reached the World Cup final three times, and

its lineup for the 2022 edition contains one of Europe's most lethal attackers.

Cody Gakpo is one among the favorites to win the Golden Boot at this World Cup.

The USA may be underdogs, but they have a legitimate chance of reaching the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time.

The Americans may believe they have been battle hardened by tough opponents in England and

Iran, and they may believe their superb midfield of McKennie, Yunus Musah, and

Tyler Adams can at least match Frenkie De Jong and company.

That possibility will grow if Gakpo's cooldown occurs on Saturday.