The Americans’ run at the World Cup is over, thanks a 2-1 loss to Belgium. World Cup fever had been spreading over the past couple of weeks, and so the United States’ elimination is a real bummer for die-hards and the bandwagon fans alike. For fans of the Belgian team, though, today’s game was a classic one: Despite an awesome performance by U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard, they saw their team score twice to advance to the quarterfinals, where Argentina awaits. Daily Intelligencer sent photographers to DUMBO (where U.S. fans watched under the Manhattan Bridge) and to BXL Zoute (where Belgium fans gathered for the match). See the agony and the ecstasy from those spots below.
Fans during the U.S. national anthem:
The reaction after Belgium failed to convert chances in the first half:
Fans of both countries were in a good mood at halftime, with the score 0-0:
American fans cheer after Tim Howard makes crucial saves in the second half:
The reaction after the U.S. misses a scoring opportunity during stoppage time in the second half:
Fans after Belgium scored two goals in extra time:
Down 2-0, it was time for U.S. fans to pray:
The scenes after the U.S. scored to make it 2-1:
The reactions after the Americans missed a great chance to tie the score late in extra time:
Belgium fans celebrate their victory:
U.S. fans are bummed as their team is eliminated: