USA head coach Gregg Berhalter has heaped praise on Leeds United star Tyler Adams.
The young midfielder is the captain for his nation at the World Cup, and has not buckled under pressure.
Adams was outstanding in the USA's final group stage game, a 1-0 win over Iran that set up a Round of 16 date with Netherlands on Saturday.
Berhalter stated post-game: "Really proud of this group, especially towards the end. It wasn't going our way, we had to dig, we had to fight for everything, that's when you guys stepped up.
"Really good effort, they were desperate, and we held firm. We want you to enjoy this, but we're not done - that's the mentality we need to have, not that we're happy to be here.
"We've got to flip the switch and get into competitive mode. In the knockout, anything can happen, it's about survival. I'll take you guys all day, all day. First World Cup win and I think this player played really good today but when I look at the body of work over three games, he's absolutely crushed it - Tyler Adams."
Adams then added: "You guys suffered today, it wasn't easy by any means. This could go to a lot of people today but really proud to be part of this team. I'd go to war with you every time, thank you guys."