Lawmakers lament as U.S. exits soccer World Cup

Lawmakers put on their brave faces and paid tribute to the United States men's national soccer team after they lost to the Netherlands, 3-1, in the first match of the knockout round of the World Cup.

Saturday's matchup was the United States' seventh appearance in the knockout round and marks the end of the team's first World Cup tournament since 2014.

Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) took to Twitter and said he was excited for what the future holds for a team that is "young, super talented and just entering their prime."

"The U.S. had chances to finish. We didn't. The Dutch had chances to finish. They did," Murphy said on Twitter.

"Congrats to @USMNTon a good run! Played hard and never gave up. Good luck to Netherlands as they continue on," Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.) said on Twitter.

".@USMNT: what a good run. You all can be so proud of leaving it all on the field and representing our country on the world stage. #OnlyForward," Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) tweeted.

Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) also expressed optimism for the team's future.

"So proud to see New Jersey natives Matt Turner, Brenden Aaronson, and Coach Gregg Berhalter and all the players lead the USA back to the World Cup this year," Booker said on Twitter. "Excited for the team’s future, and especially for the World Cup to return to Jersey in 2026."

"So proud of @USMNTin the World Cup. Thanks for inspiring my kids and our nation," Rep. Andy Kim (D-N.J.) said on Twitter.

"Nice job @USMNTCan’t wait to see what the future holds! #USA," Rep. Kathy Castor (D-Fla.) tweeted.

The Netherlands will face the winner of Argentina and Australia in the quarterfinals on Friday.