The United States (1-1) must beat South Africa on Friday to stay alive in the 16-nation tournament. Even then, the Americans aren't assured of advancing to the second round. If Mexico, Canada and the United States finish 2-1, the tie would be broken by fewest runs allowed per inning.
If the U.S. fails to even make it into the next round, I think there is no hope of the WBC ever being played again...which is fine by me