International Friendly: USMNT Predicted XI vs. Panama
It's time for another round of international friendlies, and the USMNT is gearing up to face Panama on Wednesday, June 20th. While the friendly might not be a high-stakes affair, it offers a chance for the Stars and Stripes to fine-tune their game and build momentum before the upcoming Gold Cup.
The Matchup:
The USMNT, currently ranked 13th in the world, will be looking to assert their dominance against Panama, ranked 80th. The U.S. boasts a strong recent record against their Central American neighbors, having won their last five meetings. This friendly presents an opportunity for the Americans to showcase their depth and versatility, experimenting with different tactics and player combinations.
Predicted Starting XI:
With a focus on developing a strong squad, head coach Gregg Berhalter is likely to field a lineup featuring a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers. Here's a predicted XI for the match:
- Goalkeeper: Matt Turner (Arsenal)
- Defense: DeAndre Yedlin (Inter Miami CF), Aaron Long (New York Red Bulls), Walker Zimmerman (Nashville SC), Antonee Robinson (Everton)
- Midfield: Weston McKennie (Juventus), Tyler Adams (Leeds United), Luca de la Torre (Celta Vigo)
- Attack: Gio Reyna (Borussia Dortmund), Christian Pulisic (Chelsea), Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United)
Key Players to Watch:
- Christian Pulisic: The Chelsea forward will be looking to showcase his leadership and goal-scoring prowess, leading the line for the U.S.
- Gio Reyna: The young Borussia Dortmund starlet brings creativity and attacking flair to the team, aiming to make a statement with his performances.
- Luca de la Torre: The Celta Vigo midfielder has been making waves in Spain and could be a key player for the USMNT in the coming years.
What to Expect:
Expect the USMNT to control possession and dominate the game against a Panama team that will likely sit back and look for counter-attacking opportunities. The Americans should be confident in their ability to break down Panama's defense and create numerous scoring chances.
Key Takeaways:
This friendly provides a valuable opportunity for the USMNT to build chemistry and refine their game plan before the Gold Cup. Expect to see some exciting attacking football from the Americans, with a mix of veteran leadership and youthful exuberance.
Follow the game and stay tuned for more updates on the USMNT's journey to the Gold Cup!
