Home
The United States kicks off the hexagonal round of FIFA World Cup qualifying with two of the most difficult matches they’ll face on the road to Russia. On Friday, the USA host Mexico at Mapfre Stadium in Columbus, Ohio. Four days later, they face Costa Rica at the Estadio Nacional de Costa Rica.
#USMNT training has kicked off in Columbus! Follow ussoccer_mnt on for more behind the scenes action. #USAvMEX pic.twitter.com/6nROQe7D4f
— U.S. Soccer (@ussoccer) November 7, 2016
Jurgen Klinsmann has named an experienced roster full of players that have navigated these difficult matches before. Tim Howard, who leads the roster with 32 WCQ appearances, will be the USA’s No. 1 on Friday with Brad Guzan serving as his deputy.
In defense, Geoff Cameron, who sustained an injury while playing for Stoke City, will be a big miss for the Americans but Omar Gonzalez, John Brooks and Steve Birnbaum provide strength and size in the center of defense. Fabian Johnson and DeAndre Yedlin are in fine form for their clubs and will likely start on the outside. 18-year-old Cameron Carter-Vickers could receive his first senior cap after making his Tottenham debut in the EFL Cup in September.
In midfield, Michael Bradley remains a constant while Jermaine Jones returns having only just regained fitness with Colorado. Sacha Kljestan and Julian Green have also done enough to continue to impress Klinsmann, and Christian Pulisic will be the name that many supporters hope to see in the starting XI come Friday.
Up top, Jozy Altidore is a certain starter while either Bobby Wood or Jordan Morris could be paired with the Toronto FC striker.
Morning! #ICYMI, @J_Klinsmann named his 26-man roster for #USAvMEX and #USAvCRC: https://t.co/Y8gI1KEVuz
Camp kicks off today in Columbus! pic.twitter.com/wzr8dXQX4W— U.S. Soccer (@ussoccer) November 7, 2016
Follow me on Twitter: @ConmanFleming
