In the second friendly of the January camp, the United States Men’s National team will be taking on Jamaica. Kickoff is at 7PM EST, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This friendly comes on the heals of the US drawing Serbia 0-0 at Qualcomm Stadium. Since the friendly, Jermaine Jones and Sacha Kljestan have left the camp. Kljestan is awaiting the birth of his child. Jones is suspended for the first World Cup Qualifier, so Bruce Arena allowed him to return to the LA Galaxy preseason camp early.
USMNT vs the Reggae Boyz: Three Players to Look Out For
Andre Blake
The Philadelphia Union goalkeeper will be tested frequently. As he plays in MLS, Blake is familiar with the US attackers. While playing in MLS, he has made 39 starts, making 132 saves. In order for Jamaica to compete with the US, they cannot fall behind early. Blake strengths include saving PKs and playing long balls. At 6’4 he is not the biggest keeper, but he still makes some amazing saves.
Benny Feilhaber
Against Serbia, Feilhaber entered in the 77th minute, he looked very threatening. Especially with Kljestan departing, he will most likely get a start. In order for him to succeed, he will have to consistently drive the attack forward. Feilhaber was able to do that in his substitute, but it will be more difficult when the defenses aren’t as tired. However, as Feilhaber is an experienced pro, so he shouldn’t have trouble dealing with that issue.
Sebastian Lletget
Sebastian Lletget is a true talent, but there is a debate of his best position. The two positions he plays best are on the wing and a No. 8 box-to-box midfielder. In this game he which position he features in will depend if the US plays a flat four or a diamond midfield. If he plays well, he could force himself into the starting 11 for the World Cup Qualifier.
He is very strong on the ball, and isn’t afraid to get forward. This attacking mentality would be useful in the USMNT because they frequently lack creative players. Not only is he strong offensively, he also isn’t afraid of helping out defensively. Whether he plays on the wing or as No. 8, he can help the team tremendously.
When the USMNT are Attacking
Coach Bruce Arena has stated that the US will be going to a two forward set up for this game. Most likely that will be a partnership of Jozy Altidore and Jordan Morris. However, Juan Agudelo may start instead of Altidore because he started last game. The US will need to make sure the creator under them (most likely Feilhaber) will provide quality service, so they have a lot of scoring opportunities.
When the Reggae Boyz are Attacking
Most of the Jamaican attackers ply their trade in the Jamaican domestic league. However, one player who could make a difference offensively could be Bethlehem Steel FC forward Corey Burke. He recently scored in both of Jamaica’s Caribbean Cup victories. Also, the US will have to watch New York Red Bulls left back Kemar Lawrence getting forward. When attacking, Jamaica will try and take advantage of a US back line that will not have much chemistry.
