hrafftery

Christian Pulisic. The man of the moment.

The choice was clear: bring in other fit, less talented players. Or do this. Priso may not be fit, so he joins the list of questions. But Miller, Knight-Lebel, Bassong, Hoilett, Jebbison, Bair, Russell-Rowe all left out despite being at the very least, healthy and fit.

Canada are a decent team under Jesse Marsch. Most players are in their physical prime, they have World Cup experience, and being the host nation also plays a role. A lot of intensity, high tempo, and direct play in the attacking area. Lots of movement and dynamism, and a solid midfield (Koné is a very good CM). Their game plan is mainly built to exploit spaces behind the defence and especially out wide. FBs are also used inside. Wingers usually stay high and wide. Against deeper blocks, they’re not really a creative team. A strong CF duo: David who often drops deeper, and Oluwaseyi who is more of a physical outlet. But Larin is likely to play. I actually prefer that. David is important. Our 6s will need to do a good job cutting off passing lanes and our CBs will have to step out and track tightly when necessary. But we have to be careful, because that creates space behind. Communication with the 6s and FBs is important. If we defend those spaces well and manage to minimize that, they will struggle. They’re not really flawless defensively, let’s say a bit risky. Front-footed. The defenders are not very good, especially with their injury issues at the back. They can be exposed in 1v1s, and their CBs aren’t as dominant in the air as Džeko. It’s a team that aims for open matches with lots of transitions and direct vertical football. If you allow them that, and you don’t have the athletes to match them, it becomes difficult. They are decent opponent, but I rate our chances highly. I’d take a draw, but in my opinion there are three points to be taken here. Beautiful country and a great opener. It’s an honour for us to be part of that. Definitely a match we’ll remember for a long time, hopefully with a positive outcome.

GROUP B - Combined XI ⭐️