sport news American soccer fans congratulate USMNT on reaching World Cup knockout stages ... trends now

NFL star JJ Watt has led tributes pouring in on social media for the USMNT, hailing Christian Pulisic for putting his body on the line to score against Iran, as the US will now advance to the Round of 16 at the World Cup.

'Sacrificing the crown jewels for a massive goal in the World Cup... that's dedication @cpulisic_10,' tweeted the Arizona Cardinals defensive end after the final whistle was blown at Al Thumama Stadium in Doha, Qatar.

'@USMNT CONGRATS MEN on advancing,' LeBron James shared minutes later. 'Keep going!!!'

JJ Watt, LeBron James and Carli Lloyd led the charge of congratulatory tweets following the USMNT's 1-0 win over Iran on Tuesday

Christian Pulisic scored in the 38th minute before clashing into Iran's Alreza Beiranvand

Former USWNT striker Carli Lloyd, who scored 134 goals in 316 appearances for the Star and Stripes, reacted: 'What a fight!!! Well done boys. Way to lay it all on the line to get that [ball] in the back of the net @cpulisic_10! Onto the next! #WorldCup2022 #USA'

Pulisic scored while crashing headfirst into Iranian goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand in the 38th minute from a Sergino Dest cross. The Chelsea winger sprawled on the field and was lying in the goal for about three minutes as he received treatment from the U.S. staff. He reentered the game but was replaced at the start of the second half.

'Exhale...my goodness...Onto the knockout,' tweeted a relieved Stuart Holden, who is Fox Sports' play-by-play announcer in Qatar.

'WE'RE NOT PACKING OUR BAGS. WE'RE NOT GOING HOME. WE'RE MOVING ON!!!,' the US men's soccer team shared seconds after the team emerged victorious from Tuesday's win-or-go-home game.