With the Confederations Cup underway, and the CONCACAF Championship (Gold Cup) starting next month, it’s an exciting time to be a football fanatic. It is especially exciting to be a United States Men’s National Team fan. The advent of a golden generation of young players, has revitalized the team, and rejuvenated the fan base.
For decades, the USA’s claim to fame in the soccer world has been the Women’s National Team. The USWNT has consistently ranked #1 in the FIFA World Rankings, and currently ranks #2, behind Germany. They are nothing short of dominant in international competitions; winning three World Cups (1991, 1999, 2015), four Olympic Gold Medals (1996, 2004, 2008, 2012), and seven CONCACAF Championships, out of eight appearances.
In CONCACAF, the USWNT has almost achieved perfection. The USMNT on the other hand, have struggled to achieve that same level of dominance. The men have two less CONCACAF championships than the women, even though they have made seven more appearances in the tournament. They currently sit in third place in World Cup qualifying, behind Costa Rica and Mexico. Their performance in the 2015 Gold Cup was disappointing to say the least. Defending their 2013 title on home soil; they slumped to a 2-1 defeat to Jamaica in the semi-final, and lost the third place game to Panama on penalties. With respect to Jamaica and Panama, they should have easily won those games. The USMNT made it to the Round of 16 in the last two World Cups, and should not be losing to teams that have never even qualified.
Michael Bradley celebrates his goal that earned the USMNT a key draw against Mexico in World Cup qualifying. Photo Credit: http://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2017/06/12/11/49/20170612-feat-mnt-michael-bradleys-highlight-reel-goal-and-the-june-wcq-plan
In spite of their international inconsistency, I would argue that the USMNT is gradually establishing themselves as a serious contender on the world stage. They were able to secure a crucial draw against Mexico at the Estadio Azteca, improving to 1-8-3 overall at the iconic stadium. They have a core group of young talent that can lead them to glory in Russia.
DeAndre Yedlin is exceeding expectations in England, helping Newcastle United win promotion to the English Premier League. Juan Agudelo and Dom Dwyer have scored 12 goals combined in MLS so far, with Dwyer earning his first call-up to the national team. Jordan Morris and Christian Roldan have become integral parts of the Sounders starting eleven, with Roldan earning his first call up as well.
And of course, Christian Pulisic has continued his meteoric rise to stardom. At just 18 years old, he never ceases to impress. He scores goals in the UEFA Champions League for Borussia Dortmund, and earned the number ten shirt for the USMNT. His skillful play and wizardry with the ball at his feet; have breathed new life into the team, and wowed the crowds. He will be key to the USMNT success in qualifying for the World Cup, and could be the player that elevates the team to the next level of world football.
The sky is the limit for the boys in red, white, and blue. With veterans like Michael Bradley and Clint Dempsey guiding the young stars, the imagination of USA fans is running wild. Russia 2018, here we come!
Leave It On The Pitch 