USA coach Gregg Berhalter says their 3-1 World Cup round 16 loss to Holland is a "difficult one to handle".

The Americans put in a spirited display and had chances to progress but were ultimately outclassed by a more clinical Dutch side.

"We came up short today, but not for a lack of trying, not for a lack of effort," Berhalter said postgame to Fox Sports.

"I think the guys poured everything they had into this game, and unfortunately, we lost it.

"It's such a difficult one to handle. It's such a good group of guys, such a close group of guys."

Berhalter's team had captured the imagination of the US nation, with thousands back home scrambling to pubs and live sites to cheer on their heroes.

While the result may be deflating, the coach offered to keep a broad perspective, while acknowledging their shortcomings.

"Really proud," Berhalter said of his group. "When you think about this group and how they've come together over the last three-and-a-half years, It's really special to see."