"We've got a long way to go to be competitive with the best teams," said Sunil Gulati, the new U.S. Soccer Federation president. But, he added, "It's not light years."

Arena took over in 1998, and his current contract expires in December. After the game, he was asked whether he'd want to go through another four years.

"If you asked me right now, probably not," he said, chuckling.

Arena said he had "other opportunities" and Gulati said discussions with the coach will take place after a period of post-tournament evaluation.

"He didn't become a bad coach in these three games," Gulati said. "He's had an extraordinary record for us."

The extraordinary thing Thursday was that Ghana, ranked 48th in the world, had advanced. As star midfielder Michael Essien went into the stands to celebrate, the Americans trudged off, many with heads bowed.

"The worst part is the finality of it," Donovan said. "Even during the game, you don't get the sense, 'This is it.' The whistle blows and it's over."