Columbus, OH– Folks, it’s time. Or as Kevin Hart would say, “It’s about to go down.” USA vs. Mexico is finally here. It’s in Columbus, or “Dos A Cero” town. Ok that’s not a real thing either. Really, we shouldn’t have to hype you up for this. We know what’s at stake. Pride, and a great first step in qualifying for the 2018 World Cup. There are many storylines to this game, none of which should be political. Maybe a nice fresh breathe of the crisp Columbus air will unite our currently divided country. But it’s time to give you our “what to watch for” and some match predictions.
USA vs. Mexico: WCQ Match Preview
What to Watch For
The Temperature
Recently, one of our writers wrote a piece about how Mexico shouldn’t be too affected by the cold, as they have been in years past. Still, it’s absolutely miserable to play soccer in that type of weather. I’ve done it enough. It’s sometimes painful. However, he’s right. Mexico most likely won’t be too affected by the cold tomorrow night. However, the actual temperature of the game is what they need to watch for. With such a passionate rivalry, world cup qualifying at stakes, and the addition of the current political climate, it’s sure to be an intense match. Both sides will need to control their tempers, and allow their emotion behind the match to fuel their play, not anger.
The Midfield
To quell the Mexican attack, the U.S must not sit back, they need to press them. Mexico is at their best when given time on the ball. They have a pretty technical group in the midfield, and giving them the least amount of time to create and make decisions will help the U.S. win the Midfield battle. Frankly, whoever ends up winning that battle in the midfield, will probably win the match.
All Eyes on Pulisic
Christian Pulisic will be the center of attention for the US and rightfully so. The 18 year old star commands the spotlight with his play, not with his mouth. He’s done so at Borussia Dortmund, winning the regular spot as a right winger. For the US, he might be on the left, but he’ll be on full display no matter where he plays. We’ll get to the lineup in a minute, but this is Pulisic’s biggest test as a USMNT player yet. If he steals the show tomorrow night, you can quell the bust talks. He’s for real.
Lineup
I would expect to see something extremely similar to what they used in the WCQ match against Trinidad and Tobago. I’ll go with this:
Predictions
The U.S. has found a formula that works with their recent play. They looked really good in Copa America in a few stretches, and put together some complete performances after that. They always come together in Columbus, and it somehow always ends in “Dos a Cero.” So I’m going with another Dos A Cero in favor of the United States.
