Howard hoping US have proved worth on big stage

JOHANNESBURG: US goalkeeper Tim Howard said he hoped the American performance at the Confederations Cup has proved his team could play on football's biggest stage.

"We hope we've opened some eyes and proven to some people we can play on a big stage," the Everton goalkeeper told reporters after the Americans lost 3-2 to Brazil in Sunday's final in Johannesburg.

"But without question it was exceedingly disappointing to lose," he added.