USMNT Lineup Prediction: International Friendly vs. Panama
The USMNT is back in action with an international friendly against Panama on October 13th. This match serves as a crucial warm-up for the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League matches. While there are a few key players missing due to injuries, Gregg Berhalter will be eager to test out some new formations and combinations ahead of the upcoming international tournaments.
Predicting the Starting XI
Given the recent form and the squad selected, here’s a predicted starting lineup for the USMNT against Panama:
Goalkeeper: Matt Turner (Arsenal) - Turner has cemented his place as the starting goalkeeper for the USMNT and should feature in this match.
Defense:
- Right-Back: Sergino Dest (AC Milan) - Dest's return from injury is a major boost for the USMNT. His attacking prowess and defensive solidity make him a valuable asset.
- Center-Back: Walker Zimmerman (Nashville SC) - Zimmerman has been a consistent performer for both club and country and is likely to anchor the defense.
- Center-Back: Tim Ream (Fulham) - Ream's experience and composure make him a reliable partner for Zimmerman.
- Left-Back: Antonee Robinson (Everton) - Robinson's attacking runs and solid defensive play make him a threat down the left flank.
Midfield:
- Defensive Midfielder: Tyler Adams (Leeds United) - Adams is a key player for the USMNT, controlling the tempo of the game and breaking up opposing attacks.
- Central Midfielder: Weston McKennie (Juventus) - McKennie's energy and box-to-box runs provide a crucial link between the defense and attack.
- Central Midfielder: Yunus Musah (Valencia) - Musah has been in fine form for Valencia and his ability to dictate the tempo and create chances will be essential.
Attack:
- Right Winger: Christian Pulisic (AC Milan) - Pulisic's pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability make him a constant threat. He's likely to be a key player in this match.
- Left Winger: Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United) - Aaronson's high work rate and ability to find space in the final third make him a valuable asset.
- Striker: Folarin Balogun (AS Monaco) - Balogun has been in excellent form for AS Monaco, and his goal-scoring threat will be a valuable asset for the USMNT.
Substitutes to Watch
With a strong squad available, Gregg Berhalter has options to change the game.
Notable Substitutes:
- Goalkeeper: Ethan Horvath (Luton Town)
- Defender: DeAndre Yedlin (Inter Miami CF)
- Midfielder: Luca de la Torre (Celta Vigo)
- Forward: Gio Reyna (Borussia Dortmund), Jordan Morris (Seattle Sounders FC)
The Game Plan
The USMNT will be looking to dominate possession and control the tempo of the game. They will aim to exploit Panama's weaknesses on the flanks and create scoring opportunities through quick passing and movement. Expect to see a high-intensity performance from the US as they look to build momentum ahead of the CONCACAF Nations League.
What to Expect
This match will be a good opportunity for the USMNT to test out new players and formations. It will also be a chance for some of the players to build their confidence ahead of the upcoming tournaments. The US should be confident of a victory, but Panama will be a tough opponent, especially on home soil.
Overall, this match promises to be an exciting one for USMNT fans. With a strong squad and a clear game plan, the US will be looking to make a statement and continue their winning ways. Let's hope for a good performance and a solid victory!
