The Columbus Crew’s congratulations to midfielder Max Arfsten for his World Cup debut came at an awkward time.
Arfsten, who entered during the 92nd minute of the United States Men’s National Soccer Team’s loss to Belgium in the 2026 World Cup on July 6, received praise from the Crew’s social media.
“A Moment Max Will Never Forget,” the Crew posted on their X account.
Just 42 seconds later, Arfsten and the rest of the USMNT watched Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku snag a deflection off defender Chris Richards and score to hand the U.S. a 4-1 loss in the Round of 16.
After the game, the Crew posted again, congratulating Arfsten on representing the U.S. at the World Cup.
“Our city, the Crew Fam and our country couldn’t be prouder of Max and the USMNT, despite the result tonight. Thank you for representing the Stars & Stripes with heart and passion,” the Crew posted on X.
Arfsten registered one minute of play against Belgium.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus Crew praise Max Arfsten’s World Cup debut as USA concede goal
Reporting by Dan Aulbach, Columbus Dispatch / The Columbus Dispatch
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Dan Aulbach, Columbus Dispatch | USA TODAY Network
