The U.S. men’s national team can take a huge step towards clinching a spot at the 2022 FIFA World Cup on Thursday night, but will have to overcome rivals Mexico at a hostile Estadio Azteca (10 p.m. ET, Paramount+).
Gregg Berhalter’s side sit level on 21 points with Mexico in the race for an automatic qualification berth. The USMNT defeated Mexico 2-0 in Cincinnati back in November, which extended the Americans winning streak to three matches against their biggest rivals.
Several USMNT starters are unavailable through injury including Weston McKennie, Sergino Dest and Brenden Aaronson. However, Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams remain key leaders for the Americans while Gio Reyna, Jordan Pefok, and Jesus Ferreira have all returned to international action.
Mexico is unbeaten in three-straight qualifiers, defeating Jamaica and Panama in recent months to help ease pressure off of head coach Tata Martino. El Tri continues to rely on Raul Jimenez, Hirving Lozano, and others to lead the offensive charge.
SBI will be providing coverage of the clash of the Concacaf Giants throughout the night so be sure to stay tuned as we provide updates, and analysis before, during and after the match.
Check back in closer to 9 p.m. ET as we provide the starting lineups for both teams.
Here is a rundown of SBI’s pre-match coverage:
- The USMNT has the chance to move one step closer to World Cup Qualification, but will have to claim a first road win at Estadio Azteca to do so. (LINK)
- Jesus Ferreira isn’t a prototypical striker, but he could be the perfect fit for USMNT vs. Mexico. (LINK)
- Back from long layoff, Gio Reyna feeling confident heading into crucial USMNT qualifiers. (LINK)
- Who will, and who should the USMNT start vs. Mexico? (LINK)
- Brenden Aaronson ruled out of USMNT’s World Cup Qualifiers due to knee injury (LINK)
- USMNT to carefully manage Gio Reyna’s return (LINK)
SBI’s editorial staff will provide insight and analysis throughout the night in the comments section below. You are welcome to share your own pre-game and in-game thoughts and opinions as well.
Enjoy the action.