Chris, the US played well. However, the Belgians played much much better. If it hadn't been for Howard, the US might as well have said good bye to any chance of so much as tying within the first 15 minutes of the game.
Sure, USA had some luck but i think it was mostly effort. I thought outside a couple guys, most of Belgium looked sluggish in extra time. The USA walked it up very easily at times in the midfield. Belgium's attackers were great though.