Scoreless tie for USMNT bad for fans, great for team

The result drew a chorus of boos in Qatar and online as fans hoped for a more climatic finish to the highly anticipated match against England.

While fans hoped for more, the fact is the U.S. controls its destiny in advancing to the knockout stage. That's worth celebrating in and of itself.

Iran's 2-0 victory over Wales ensures the winner of Tuesday's match between the U.S. and Iran will be for a spot in the next round. Having two points in the group stage to Iran's three, the U.S. will need a victory to advance; a loss means Iran will move on while a tie opens the door for Wales to advance with a win over England.

The U.S. held up remarkably well against an England team that scored six goals in its opener. The only goal allowed by the U.S. remains a penalty kick by Gareth Bale in its World Cup opener against Wales. The team is the third youngest in the field and has so far not been phased by the bright lights of the World Cup stage.

A tie wasn't what anyone hoped for in today's match, but it keeps the team on track for a berth in the round of 16. A tie against England can be applauded. A tie against Iran? Fans should save their boos until then.