The United States will face Paraguay in their World Cup opener on Friday, with the US team under pressure to launch their campaign with a victory. The US, ranked 17th, are the highest-ranked team in Group D, while Paraguay are 41st among the tournament’s 48 teams.
US Team Outlook
The US team features a formidable attack with players like Weston McKennie, Christian Pulisic, and Folarin Balogun. However, their defense is a weakness, with inexperienced goalkeeper Matt Freese potentially facing a tough test. The US have only had one clean sheet in their last 13 games and have conceded 11 goals in their past four matches.
Paraguay, on the other hand, have a physical backline that will try to slow the US attack, but their offense struggles to score. They will be without their main forward Julio Enciso, who will miss the opener with a thigh injury.
Importance of the Match
While getting a win is not completely necessary in an expanded tournament where only 16 of the 48 teams will be eliminated during the group stage, it would be critical in helping build confidence for the US team. Former US player Cobi Jones said that getting three points at the beginning really helps your chances and establishes you as the leaders of the group.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
