No, I’m not being dramatic. It’s really that bad. At this rate, the U.S. might not even get a point in its World Cup group.
The recent friendlies against Japan and Saudi Arabia confirmed my suspicion that this team isn’t ready for primetime. These were supposed to be the games where the U.S. displayed its progress and readiness for the big stage. And, unequivocally, the team failed.
I’m the type of guy that, no matter how negative I can be, I always try to look for silver linings when things go wrong. It’s rare that I come away with essentially no positive takeaways from an international window. That is the case this time.
So, on that remarkably negative note, let’s take a look at the USMNT’s schedule, game by game, and determine what exactly we should expect when watching this team in less than two months.
Nov. 21 vs Wales
Wales enters the group stage off the back of a disappointing display in the UEFA Nations League, earning just one point in six games. They qualified for the World Cup via a 1-0 win over Ukraine in the European qualifying playoff.
The Welsh are led by winger Gareth Bale, who is notorious for being the driving force of the attack. While he may be past his day at the club level (he’s unable to start for LAFC in MLS), he still has plenty to contribute to his national team. One difference-maker in attack can punish the USMNT’s lackluster defense.
But it would be foolish to reduce Wales to just Bale. Surprise standouts such as forward Hal Robson-Kanu in the 2016 European Championship always seem to pop up with this team. My bet is that winger Daniel James’ pace poses major issues for the U.S. backline.
The Welsh defense is the weakness that the USMNT will have to take advantage of. If not, the U.S. will start off on the wrong foot.
Best case scenario: scraping out a win with a late winner à la Ghana 2014.
Worst case scenario: close loss with costly defensive mistakes
Nov. 25 vs England
Like the U.S., the English have been on a terrible run of form heading into the World Cup. So, there’s a chance to defeat our former motherland, right? Not so fast.
The real discrepancy with this matchup isn’t a tactical advantage, as crazy as that may sound. England manager Gareth Southgate has come under fire recently for his team’s uninspiring play, much like U.S. manager Gregg Berhalther.
So who wins out in a battle of bad managers? The team with more firepower. And this England team is loaded. The attack features one of the best strikers in the world, elite wingers with pace and technique, a balanced midfield and mostly competent defenders.
Here’s why I say mostly. I truly believe the only hope that the U.S. has of even garnering a single point in this game is a costly defensive mistake from English center back Harry Maguire. His affinity for costing his team goals is truly unique, and it gives the U.S. a miniscule sliver of hope for a positive result.
All this being said, with the way the U.S. has looked recently, I genuinely can’t say we’re going to even get a draw. I’m officially, and with a heavy heart, writing this game off. Fly away, bald eagles.
Best case scenario: close loss in an entertaining game
Worst case scenario: embarrassing loss to one of our biggest rivals
Nov. 29 vs Iran
My bold take of the group stage predictions comes in this game. I don’t think it’s possible for the U.S. to win against Iran.
This Iran team is notorious for playing in a low block and absorbing pressure from the opposition. That just so happens to be the one thing that this U.S. team is absolutely worst at. No matter the talent discrepancy, I cannot talk myself into believing that this team will find a way to break down Iran and win this game.
On the other hand, Iran’s star striker Sardar Azmoun just picked up a calf injury that will likely sideline him up until the start of the World Cup, if not later. If he does miss the competition, it’s a huge blow for a team already lacking in threatening attacking options.
Therefore, if I had to predict one game to end 0-0, it would be this one.
Also, if my Spanish professor is reading this, I will unfortunately be sick on this specific Tuesday and won’t be able to attend class. Sorry not sorry.
Best case scenario: dominant draw but unable to find a lead
Worst case scenario: heartbreaking loss in a low-scoring game
If I’m a fortune teller, the U.S. will end up with anywhere from zero to four points. Based on other results around the group, it’s more than likely four points will be a bare minimum to make it to the knockout stage. So, basically, everything is going to have to go right.
Great.
Anything can happen, and I will personally invite the USMNT to prove me wrong in every capacity. And if you’re feeling more optimistic about this team’s chances, then good for you. Seriously, I wish I could look on the bright side here. But if the U.S. goes up in flames and is out of the tournament by December, don’t say I didn’t warn you.