Tim Howard: the new Captain America

US goalkeeper Tim Howard makes a save during extra-time in the Round of 16 football match between Belgium and USA at The Fonte Nova Arena in Salvador on July 1, 2014, during the 2014 FIFA World Cup. AFP
US goalkeeper Tim Howard makes a save during extra-time in the Round of 16 football match between Belgium and USA at The Fonte Nova Arena in Salvador on July 1, 2014, during the 2014 FIFA World Cup. AFP

Americans are embracing their newest superhero: Team USA goalkeeper Tim Howard, whose on-pitch pluck and defiance in an excruciating 2-1 loss to Belgium electrified his nation.

Memes featuring Howard, 35, exploded on the Internet, politicians clamoured to praise him and Wikipedia trolls even named him the U.S. secretary of defence after his record 16 saves.

"Tim Howard could've saved my parents' marriage," quipped one Twitter user.

Vice President Joe Biden hailed him as "most valuable player in the World Cup," and the Everton 'keeper won gushing praise from congressional leaders, basketball icon Kobe Bryant, and even Belgian opponents.

"Two words, Tim Howard," Belgian centre back Vincent Kompany posted on Twitter after the match.