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Story summary
- United States team lost 4-1 to Belgium in the 2026 World Cup Round of 16.
- Alexi Lalas defended the pay-to-play model on X after the loss.
- Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimovic criticized the model, citing $3,500 per child.
- A 2018 study showed over 70% of participants came from households earning more than $50,000.
- All 30 MLS clubs run youth academies, many offering free spots for elite prospects.
