Note: This story first appeared in The Beautiful Game by CNN Sports, our daily newsletter on all things World Cup. To subscribe, click here.

Here we go, then. The biggest match for the USA in this tournament so far. Win, and the impossible dream lives on. Lose, and a nation comes crashing back down to reality.

The players have been able to sit back and watch a host of dramatic games in the Round of 32 already and yesterday was no exception. Erling Haaland left it late to inspire Norway to the last 16, while Mexico and France both continued their brilliant campaigns so far.

Now, it’s the turn of six new teams hoping to be on the right side of these ruthless knockout games. Mauricio Pochettino’s men will be carrying the weight of expectation on their shoulders and losing cannot be an option.

Buckle up!