Based on the results of matchday 1, it’s possible that the United States, Mexico, and Canada can all secure their places in the knockout phase of the tournament, the round of 32, if they win on matchday 2. We look at the knockout phase scenarios for the hosts ahead of this week’s matchups.
United States Leads Group D With 3 Points
A dominant 4-1 win over Paraguay, that was comprehensive from start to finish, sees the United States on the cusp of qualification for the knockout phase. They face Australia on matchday 2, a team that beat Turkiye 2-0 and looked strong in their own right. Should these teams share the spoils, 4 points is enough to advance, a USA win would likely make them the winner of the group. If they defeat Australia, and Turkiye don’t beat Paraguay, they win Group D and face a third place team.
While Australia and goalkeeper Patrick Beach showcased a speedy counter attack and brilliant defending and goaltending against Turkiye, team USA took advantage of a nervous Paraguay, with Christian Pulisic shining, along with a physical midfield, and world class striker play from Folarin Balogun who scored a brace, before substitute Giovanni Reyna added a peach of a goal in the 98th minute.
Team USA must remain vigilant against Australia, but American fans are starting to believe this a team that can have an impact in the tournament under Mauricio Pochettino. Poch had the Yanks playing like prime Tottenham Hotspur under his management.
Mexico Faces South Korea After Winning Start in Group A
Mexico will win group A if they beat South Korea and Czechia do not beat South Africa. That’s the simple scenario after a great 2-0 start for Mexico against South Africa gave them leadership of the group. South Korea shined as well, coming back for a 2-1 win over Czechia.
Mexico are planning some XI changes, Cesar Montes is suspended, Edson Alvarez would move into the CB role, while teenager Gilberto Mora could start in the midfield. This is another game where a draw, and both teams being on 4 points would see them advance to the round of 32. Manager Javier Vasco Aguirre tends to be pragmatic, and South Korea are technically gifted and quick, while Mexico have shown defensive solidity over the past two years. This may be a cagey game, though home field advantage favors Mexico.
Overall, circumstances have improved for Mexico, as they failed to get out of the group stage in 2022 for the first time since 1970.
Canada Faces Qatar Aiming for Three Points
Canada was the only host nation to not secure a win on matchday 1. Playing at home in Toronto, they appeared nervous and on edge against a Bosnia side who managed a lone goal and nearly held on for the win until substitute Cyle Larin scored late to level it and finally get Canada a World Cup point. The good news is, the other game in the group, Switzerland vs Qatar, was also a draw, meaning all things are level on match day 2 and the group is up for grabs.
Jesse Marsch’s men only need 4 points to reach the round of 32, meaning a win over Qatar would be enough, while a loss or a draw makes the Switzerland game a much heavier contest. Canada are favored over Qatar, but Qatar is brimming with confidence. The biggest issue for Canada is that Moise Bombito and Alphonso Davies still appear unfit and may not feature. Ultimately, playing in Vancouver should be to their advantage but Canadian fans will be hoping they don’t leave anything to doubt after Thursday’s game is complete.
Main Photo Credit: Smartframe Images
