Germany scored in the 2nd minute and it looked like the USMNT could be in for a long night.

Instead, Mauricio Pochettino's side responded with one of their most encouraging performances in recent memory.

Jedi Robinson produced an absolute world-class goal to level the match and the United States spent large stretches of the first half looking like they belonged on the same field as one of the world's elite national teams. The attack created chances, the midfield competed, and for the first time in a while there were real signs that this group is ready for the challenge of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The result ultimately ended in a 2-1 defeat, but the performance told a different story.

We'll break down Jedi Robinson's incredible strike, the positives from the attack, what Christian Pulisic, Malik Tillman and Weston McKennie showed, why Tim Ream and Miles Robinson remain major concerns heading into the tournament, and whether this performance should change expectations for the United States at the World Cup.

Was this a loss that should actually make USMNT fans feel better?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments and subscribe for full World Cup coverage from Battered Soccer Fans.

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