<div id="attachment_353694" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption alignnone"><div><figure class="image"></figure></div><p id="caption-attachment-353694" class="wp-caption-text">Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images</p></div>
<p>Playing too many games is one of the main issues surrounding the current landscape of soccer. With international breaks and competitions overlapping with players’ club seasons, there are small windows of true rest.</p>
<p>For instance, players in the Premier League, La Liga and the Bundesliga often cannot take breaks that some of the more privileged receive. In some cases, club sides&nbsp;<em>and&nbsp;</em>international teams need a player to help them accomplish their goals.</p>
<p>Take someone like Pedri. Currently, a hamstring injury sidelines the 18-year-old midfielder. Perhaps, this injury came about because of that massive allotment of minutes the Spaniard played in his debut season. In fact, the 17-year-old arrived from UD Las Palmas prior to the 2020/21 season. Then, he went and played the <a href="https:\/\/www.goal.com/en/news/tokyo-2020-pedri-bruno-fernandes-players-most-matches-2020/1g7ajc48aszry1sfevuuqd3bvi" target="_blank" rel="noopener">most games in all competitions</a> across Europeans.</p>
<p>In his first season for Barcelona, the midfielder appeared in 52 games for the club. That’s more than fellow midfielders <a href="https:\/\/www.transfermarkt.us/frenkie-de-jong/leistungsdaten/spieler/326330/plus/0?saison=2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Frenkie de Jong</a> and <a href="https:\/\/www.transfermarkt.us/sergio-busquets/leistungsdaten/spieler/65230/plus/0?saison=2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sergio Busquets</a> as well as <a href="https:\/\/www.transfermarkt.us/jordi-alba/leistungsdaten/spieler/69751/plus/0?saison=2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jordi Alba</a> and the recently departed <a href="https:\/\/www.transfermarkt.us/lionel-messi/leistungsdaten/spieler/28003/plus/0?saison=2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lionel Messi</a>. Although, Pedri played less minutes than all aforementioned players outside of Sergio Busquets in La Liga action. Still, the foundations for playing too many games persist.</p>
<div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-353671 size-medium" src="https:\/\/ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https:\/\/images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/WST_20211103_WST_352199_Sergio-Busquets-300x395.webp&amp;width=300&amp;height=395" alt="" width="300" height="395" srcset="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/11/Sergio-Busquets-300x395.jpg 300w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/11/Sergio-Busquets-150x198.jpg 150w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/11/Sergio-Busquets.jpg 456w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px"></figure></div>
<p>Then, internationally, Pedri did not get a chance for a breather. As the player got better over the season, Spain saw <a href="https:\/\/www.transfermarkt.us/pedri/leistungsdaten/spieler/683840/saison/2020/plus/1#gesamt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">his usage rise</a> as well. In 2021, Pedri played in three World Cup qualifiers, six Olympic contests as Spain lost in the gold medal game, six Euro 2020 games with Spain knocked out in the semifinals and one international friendly.</p>
<p>After his exploits in the first nine months of 2021, Pedri picked up an injury after just four appearances for the&nbsp;<em>Blaugrana</em>. This is just one instance of an athlete playing too many games.</p>
<p>Surely, more will come.</p>
<h3>Number of games on the rise</h3>
<p>On the surface, everyone would love more soccer. Contests consistently pitting the world’s best are great, right?</p>
<p>Well, if the backlash to the <a href="https:\/\/thesuperleague.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">European Super League</a> served as any indication, not all fans crave more games. Of course, the main issue was a lack of competitive balance with a league like that. Yet, it did contribute to discussions regarding a biennial World Cup.</p>
<p>FIFA, in a bid to bring in more money and ‘grow the game’, proposed playing the World Cup every two years. At the same time, FIFA recently upped the number of teams in the competition to 48 ahead of the 2026 World Cup.</p>
<p>The issue with the biennial World Cup could warrant their own discussion. But, regarding an increased number of games, the strain would be intense on players. Already, most players on major European teams play in continental competitions like the European Championship or Copa America in between World Cup years.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><strong><a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/2021/10/20/fifa-wants-biennial-world-cup-consensus-by-december-20/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">READ MORE:</a>&nbsp;</strong></em><em>FIFA wants biennial World Cup consensus by December 20.</em></p>
<p>Breaking it down, each national competition like that has qualification stages.</p>
<h5>World Cup</h5>
<p>First off, you cannot blame players for not wanting to give their all for their country to reach the World Cup. Qualification for the World Cup varies based on continent and results. Teams play at least 10 games in UEFA qualifying, 18 in CONMEBOL, 16 in CONCACAF, 18 in AFC and eight in Africa.</p>
<p>The reason for ‘at least’ in those numbers is that teams on the bubble enter playoff stages where the squads play at least two more games each.</p>
<p>It’s a grueling road, and that number may decrease when the number of teams in the World Cup increases. Regardless, there is uncertainty in how this number changes with heightened frequency of the World Cup. As of now, World Cup qualifying begins two years outside of the upcoming World Cup. Qualification would be more rapid if it is to follow a similar format to one employed by the different federations currently.</p>
<p>Practically, there is uncertainty. And, in a game where some players play in over five different competitions, uncertainty is an unnecessary risk.</p>
<div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-353414 size-medium alignleft" src="https:\/\/ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https:\/\/images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/WST_20211103_WST_352199_Gio-Reyna-1-300x450.webp&amp;width=300&amp;height=450" alt="" width="300" height="450" srcset="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/11/Gio-Reyna-1-300x450.jpg 300w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/11/Gio-Reyna-1-150x225.jpg 150w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/11/Gio-Reyna-1.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px"></figure></div>
<p>Even now, the USMNT saw a handful of players pick up injuries on international duty. <a href="https:\/\/www.espn.com/soccer/chelsea-engchelsea/story/4500687/chelseas-christian-pulisic-really-suffering-to-overcome-injury-thomas-tuchel" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Christian Pulisic</a> and <a href="https:\/\/bvbbuzz.com/2021/10/09/borussia-dortmund-injury-update-gio-reyna-closing-return/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gio Reyna</a> picked up injuries in the September international break, sidelining them for over two months.</p>
<h5>Continental Cups</h5>
<p>Similar to the World Cup, playing too many games persists already in the likes of the Euros, Copa America, Gold Cup, Cup of Nations and the Asian Cup.</p>
<p>To start, the qualification processes for most of these tournaments resembles that of a World Cup. Of course, the exception is the Copa America, where the 10 CONMEBOL teams automatically qualify for the competition. Then, a World-Cup-length tournament persists for roughly one month across these different federations.</p>
<p>Certain competitions, particularly the African Cup of Nations or AFC Asian Cup, happen during the season. In these cases, players jump from their domestic leagues across the world to a monthlong tournament. After that, their club schedules do not skip a beat.</p>
<p>More often than not, clubs expect their major players such as Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané or Wilfred Ndidi to jump straight back in. Remember, while European and American international tournaments transpire outside of traditional club schedules, leagues do not take breaks for the Africa Cup of Nations or the AFC Asian Cup.</p>
<p>Still, let’s not cast aside the other confederations. Yes, the Euros, Copa America and Gold Cup occur outside of the traditional club season. Yet, while these players could be recuperating and allowing their bodies to catch up with their schedule, more intense competition takes precedence.</p>
<h5>Nations League</h5>
<p>The aforementioned competitions do not include the Nations League. This competition only started in UEFA following the 2018 World Cup. The purpose of the competition is to replace friendlies with an actual competition. As an added bonus, smaller nations could use UEFA and CONCACAF’s new ‘leagues’ to qualify for other tournaments.</p>
<p>Regardless of opinions on the intensity of the drawn out tournament, it surely means something to the players and coaches. For example, the first <a href="https:\/\/www.ussoccer.com/stories/2021/06/concacaf-nations-league-final-usmnt-vs-mexico-lineup-schedule-tv-channels" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CONCACAF Nations League Final</a> featured Pulisic, Reyna, Weston McKennie and Sergiño Dest, all of whom play for prominent European sides that consistently make runs in domestic leagues and cups and continental competition.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><strong><a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/2021/09/29/injured-pulisic-reyna-to-miss-us-world-cup-qualifiers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">READ MORE:</a>&nbsp;</strong></em><em>Injured Pulisic, Reyna to miss US World Cup Qualifiers.</em></p>
<p>The aforementioned Pedri likely would have started in the UEFA Nations League Final. However, his lingering injury kept him out of the squad.</p>
<h5>Club Competitions</h5>
<p>Let’s not forget, all the aforementioned competitions only happen at the international level. Thirty-six-plus game seasons for clubs, at least one domestic cup and, often for the world’s best players, the Champions League and Europa league dotted on weekdays.</p>
<p>Clearly, some players play too many games. Dependency on those who are more talented causes them to be worn out. Indeed, there are some athletes who are simply monsters that seem to not need rest. For example, Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount served critical components to their teams that each made deep runs in European competition. They finished last season second and third in terms of <a href="https:\/\/www.goal.com/en/news/tokyo-2020-pedri-bruno-fernandes-players-most-matches-2020/1g7ajc48aszry1sfevuuqd3bvi" target="_blank" rel="noopener">appearances overall</a>.</p>
<h3>Remedies for playing too many games</h3>
<div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft wp-image-353637 size-medium" src="https:\/\/ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https:\/\/images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/WST_20211103_WST_352199_Infantino-300x185.webp&amp;width=300&amp;height=185" alt="" width="300" height="185" srcset="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/11/Infantino-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/11/Infantino-600x370.jpg 600w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/11/Infantino-150x93.jpg 150w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/11/Infantino-768x474.jpg 768w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/11/Infantino-223x137.jpg 223w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/11/Infantino.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px"></figure></div>
<p>There are certain characters that are in favor of an increased workload for players across world soccer. Notably, many of these names come from higher-ups. The main culprit is perhaps the push by FIFA for the biennial World Cup.</p>
<p>For example, Gianni Infantino, the current FIFA President, received major backlash from independent nations. <a href="https:\/\/apnews.com/article/soccer-sports-2020-tokyo-olympics-world-cup-gianni-infantino-852c9b3684c356a427985173752ad5d0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Portugal, Italy and Switzerland</a> are just a few examples of this. Also, those nations have players that represent club teams that play practically from August until May. This leaves just June and July, which, even then, often mean time spent with the international teams.</p>
<p>One major critic of the biennial World Cup is UEFA President <span>Aleksander Ceferin. Despite FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s promises of providing unity in the game, Ceferin suggested UEFA could boycott FIFA’s biggest tournament if the organization moves away from its quadrennial format.</span></p>
<p>Ceferin’s reasoning? He says the increased workload for teams would “<a href="https:\/\/www.skysports.com/football/news/12098/12403175/uefa-president-aleksander-ceferin-warns-biennial-world-cup-plans-could-lead-to-european-boycott" target="_blank" rel="noopener">kill football</a>.” More eloquently, the UEFA President argues it would put such a strain on clubs and players alike that it would simply not be feasible.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>“To play every summer a one-month tournament, for the players it’s a killer. If it’s every two years it clashes with the Women’s World Cup, with the Olympic football tournament,”</em> Ceferin told&nbsp;<em>The Times</em>.</p>
<p><em>“The value is precisely because it is every four years, you wait for it. It’s like the Olympic Games, it’s a huge event. I don’t see our federations supporting that.”</em></p></blockquote>
<p>Similarly, we already see some people call for fewer games as it is. No more 60+ games for Bruno Fernandes, Pedri or any other overly used player like that.</p>
<h5>Redrafting the Soccer Calendar</h5>
<p>In 2018, then-European Club Association Chairman Andrea Agnelli called for “<a href="https:\/\/www.espn.com/soccer/blog-uefa/story/3432894/europes-top-clubs-call-for-fewer-games-and-speedier-ffp-cases" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mandatory rest periods</a>” and a redesign of some competitions. While some, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino, want expanded competitions and thus more games, Agnelli mentioned the overworking of players.</p>
<blockquote><p><span><em>“They’re playing week in, week out, two or three games a week, be it at club level or a national team level,”</em> Agnelli said. </span></p>
<p><span><em>“So when we think about the calendar going forward we must also take into consideration weeks when players can actually rest and/or train. So reducing the overall number of games.”</em></span></p></blockquote>
<p>Of course, Agnelli hampered any credibility on the topic with his devotion towards the failed European Super League. He resigned from his positions on the European Club Association and with Juventus. Regardless, he makes a good point in terms of mandatory resting periods.</p>
<p>In most leagues, the winter break is a good way to get bodies back up to par. Even then, extensive training limits any true recuperation. Then, in England, the lack of a winter break reinforces the idea of overextending players.</p>
<h5>Editing Competitions</h5>
<p>We’re all fans of great games, underdogs and dramatic storylines. They seem inherent with the beautiful game. Theoretically, more games opens up more opportunities to that.</p>
<p>Derek Rae, one of the world’s most notable commentators, said expanding the number of teams in the World Cup did not create any kind of problem when it jumped from 16 to 24 and 24 to 32. Therefore, we’ll have to see how that impacts the understanding of the competition. It seems to work well with the UEFA European Championships. After all, Iceland’s run in 2016 captured the emotions of soccer fans across the world.</p>
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<p>Rather, the issue comes with frequency. As merely a writer, I am unsure if removing some competitions or reducing the number of teams or intensity is the solution.</p>
<p>One thing is for certain. We all love when teams like France or Germany play Argentina or Brazil. However, if the competitions stay at the same frequency with the same number of games, there is reason to believe that some countries or clubs will throw out secondary sides to allow major players some form of rest.</p>
<p>In the case of a biennial World Cup, if certain UEFA nations do not boycott every two years, who is stopping these coaches from fielding a ‘senior’ side one tournament, then a younger, more experimental side, in the next rendition two years later?</p>
<h3>Predicting the future</h3>
<p>There is no saying what will happen in terms of the number of games these athletes play each season. There is reason to see them playing more games via expanded international tournaments. Although, certain constituents fight for fewer games than what we currently see.</p>
<p>The higher-ups obviously control the scheduling, and more games tends to mean <a href="https:\/\/www.si.com/soccer/2021/03/31/champions-league-future-format-expansion-swiss-system-criticism" target="_blank" rel="noopener">more money</a>. Gianni Infantino is adamant on pushing up the number of games and creating more opportunities for even smaller nations.</p>
<p>However, the soccer world is a powerful body. The immediate shutdown of the European Super League came as a result of fan backlash against their own clubs. <a href="https:\/\/www.youtube.com/watch?v=FQIDff1G1JQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gary Neville’s testimonies</a> on Sky Sports seemed to lead the English-language hatred of the proposal.</p>
<p>So, we will have to see the impacts of the public and the players against the executives.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>


Modern soccer players face the issue of playing too many games, risking the longevity of their bodies and health for immediate results.

How playing too many games takes a toll on soccer players - World Soccer Talk

How playing too many games takes a toll on soccer players

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<p>September’s round of three World Cup Qualifying games netted the US Men’s National Team (USMNT) five out of a possible nine points. Realistically, it is not a terrible set of results. Especially when taken into account the fact that two of the three games occurred on the road in hostile Central American stadiums.</p>
<p>But, U.S. fans grew concerned with the manner in which the three games unfolded. Firstly, Gregg Berhalter’s squad played to a lifeless, scoreless draw in El Salvador. Secondly, just three days later, the U.S. dropped points at home in a 1-1 draw with Canada. Thirdly, things began to fall and sent flashbacks of October 10, 2017. The Americans trailed 1-0 at the half against Honduras, playing disorganized and lackluster soccer.</p>
<p>Fortunately for the USMNT, a scoring tsunami hit in the second half. In the end, the U.S. walked out 4-1 winners over the Hondurans.</p>
<p>Holistically, five points was a decent return for three games. However, many fans would see five points as a disaster for the upcoming October international break. Moreover, two of the three games are at home. The first one is in the Lone Star State, when the USMNT takes on Jamaica in matchday four.</p>
<h3>USMNT roster shakeup</h3>
<p>The roster for the USMNT lacks two prominent names that featured in the September slate of games. Both Christian Pulisic and Gio Reyna will miss out on these three games with nagging injuries.</p>
<p>Further headaches for supporters abound with the United Kingdom government keeping their COVID-19 travel restrictions. The British government deemed a number of countries around the world “red list” countries. Anybody who travels into those countries must quarantine for 10 days upon their return to the United Kingdom, regardless of vaccination status.</p>
<p>Panama is one of those countries. It is also the site of the second of the USMNT’s three games this window. As a result, U.S. Soccer already stated Zack Steffen (Manchester City) and Antonee Robinson (Fulham) will not make the trip to Panama.</p>
<p>Also, John Brooks will miss the Americans’ three games. The center back remains sidelined with a back injury.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/2021/09/24/where-to-watch-usmnt-players-in-europe/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em><strong>READ MORE:</strong></em></a><em> American players currently at European clubs.</em></p>
<p>On a more positive note, Weston McKennie makes his return to the USMNT roster. The Juventus midfielder returns to the fold after his dismissal from camp in September for several violations of team COVID protocols.</p>
<p>Despite the rash of injuries to big name players, replacements continue to step up for the calling. The most exciting of these options come up front with two players who scored in that win over Honduras. Ricardo Pepi made his debut for the team in that 4-1 triumph, scoring one and assisting two. Also, Brenden Aaronson looks to bring his hot form from RB Salzburg into international duty. The Medford, New Jersey, native has five goals in 10 appearances for the national team.</p>
<h3>Scouting out Jamaica</h3>
<p>Jamaica struggled through their first three games in <a href="https:\/\/www.espn.com/soccer/standings/_/league/fifa.worldq.concacaf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying</a> this session.</p>
<p>Since the fall of 2020, Jamaica has three wins in 11 games, featuring seven losses. They reached the quarterfinals of the 2021 Gold Cup. However, the team fell to the US on an 83rd minute goal from Matthew Hoppe.</p>
<p>Their start to qualifying in September sank them to bottom of the octagonal. A 90th-minute loss on the road against Mexico preceded a 3-0 pounding at home from Panama. The Jamaicans drew 1-1 away to Costa Rica, which is actually a decent result. The U.K. government’s “red list” restrictions did not handicap the manager, Theodore “Tappa” Whitmore, this time. He recalls a mostly full-strength squad ahead of the game against the U.S.</p>
<p>Of the 20 players called up, five of them play for clubs based in the United States.</p>
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<th>Name</th>
<th>Position</th>
<th>Club</th>
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<td>Andre Blake</td>
<td>Goalkeeper</td>
<td>Philadelphia Union</td>
</tr>
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<td>Oniel Fisher</td>
<td>Right back</td>
<td>LA Galaxy</td>
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<td>Alvas Powell</td>
<td>Right back</td>
<td>Philadelphia Union</td>
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<td>Devon Williams</td>
<td>Midfield</td>
<td>Miami FC</td>
</tr>
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<td>Junior Flemings</td>
<td>Forward</td>
<td>Birmingham Legion</td>
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</tbody>
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<p>The United States leads the all-time series against the Jamaicans with a record of 17-3-8. The last time these two side met was on July 25, 2021, in that Gold Cup quarterfinal fixture.</p>
<h3>Quick Hitters</h3>
<p>This will be the second time the USMNT plays at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, in two-and-a-half months. In that game, the U.S. knocked off Qatar, 1-0. That game was part of a long run of unbeaten games for Gregg Berhalter’s side. Furthermore, the USMNT is unbeaten in their last 12 games. Additionally, the team only has one loss in their last 22 games.</p>
<p>They look to continue that run to help their standing in the Octagonal, where they sit tied for third. Mexico is two points ahead of the Americans with two wins and a draw. Next, Canada and Panama join the U.S. on five points. Then, Costa Rica, Honduras and El Salvador are in a log jam at two points. Finally, Jamaica rounds out the standings on one point.</p>
<p>Thursday night’s game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET from Austin, Texas. Live broadcasts of the game will be on ESPN2, Univision, and TUDN.</p>
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USA earned 5 points in its first 3 games in World Cup Qualifying. Not a bad return, but there is room to improve in this USA vs. Jamaica World Cup qualifier

USMNT looks to improve on WC Qualifying against Jamaica - World Soccer Talk

USMNT looks to improve on WC Qualifying against Jamaica

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<p>Taylor Twellman understands goal-scoring for the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT). In 30 appearances for Team USA, the striker bagged six goals. Not an amazing tally, but it shows success. Moreover, the American thrived in Major League Soccer where he won two Golden Boots, amassing 109 goals in 190 appearances for the New England Revolution.</p>
<p>Now, as a soccer analyst for ESPN, he regularly provides insight into the USMNT.</p>
<div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-344994 alignright" src="https:\/\/ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https:\/\/images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/WST_20210909_WST_344980_Twellman-New-England-Revolution-300x453.webp&amp;width=300&amp;height=453" alt="Taylor Twellman" width="300" height="453" srcset="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/Twellman-New-England-Revolution-300x453.jpg 300w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/Twellman-New-England-Revolution-596x900.jpg 596w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/Twellman-New-England-Revolution-150x226.jpg 150w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/Twellman-New-England-Revolution.jpg 658w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px"></figure></div>
<p>In a conversation with World Soccer Talk, Twellman discussed the U.S.’s recent <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/2021/09/09/usmnt-makes-progress-but-key-vulnerabilities-still-exist-says-u-s-world-cup-goalscorer/">victory in Honduras</a>, and where the team goes from here.</p>
<p>With the USMNT beginning their 2022 World Cup Qualifiers, it’s time to start deliberating what works for the team.</p>
<p>One of the glaring issues has to be the striker position. Currently, the United States holds perhaps their most talented roster ever. Furthermore, Christian Pulisic, Gio Reyna, Weston McKennie, Sergino Dest and Zack Steffen all compete at top European clubs in varying positions. There is obvious room for optimism in the United States Men’s National Team with this depth.</p>
<p>However, there is not a top player that occupies the striker position, at least not yet. A true No. 9 and an outlet to score goals holds back the offensive prowess of the talents on the roster.</p>
<p>Now, as seen in the U.S.’s recent victory over Honduras in the World Cup Qualifiers, the nation may have found their man.</p>
<h3>Taylor Twellman on Ricardo Pepi</h3>
<p>Ricardo Pepi is just 18. He is the second-youngest player for the USMNT to make his World Cup Qualifier debut.</p>
<p>His performance against Honduras showed a glimpse of his potential. The game-winning goal coupled with a pair of assists in his senior debut propelled the Americans to a 4-1 win on the road.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>“This is a player we’ve heard about, in the circles of Major League Soccer, for about two-and-a-half years</em>,<em>”&nbsp;</em>Taylor Twellman said.</p>
<p><em>“I love everything about how active he is, how mobile he is. But, most importantly, everything is about scoring goals.”</em></p></blockquote>
<div id="attachment_344999" style="width: 310px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><div><figure class="image"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-344999" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-344999" src="https:\/\/ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https:\/\/images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/WST_20210909_WST_344980_FC_Dallas_Toyota_Stadium-300x200.webp&amp;width=300&amp;height=200" alt="" width="300" height="200" srcset="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/FC_Dallas_Toyota_Stadium-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/FC_Dallas_Toyota_Stadium-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/FC_Dallas_Toyota_Stadium-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/FC_Dallas_Toyota_Stadium-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/FC_Dallas_Toyota_Stadium-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/FC_Dallas_Toyota_Stadium-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px"></figure></div><p id="caption-attachment-344999" class="wp-caption-text">In his third season at FC Dallas, Ricardo Pepi has over a third of the club’s total goals. (Photo by Rick Yeatts)</p></div>
<p>For Pepi, goals are obviously his top priority. One goal in one game is not a bad ratio. Albeit, that’s a small sample size. Furthermore, he has <a href="https:\/\/www.espn.com/soccer/stats/_/league/usa.1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">11 goals</a> in 21 appearances for FC Dallas in the 2021 MLS regular season.</p>
<p>His now-14 goals for FC Dallas rank him <a href="https:\/\/www.mlssoccer.com/news/record-chaser-where-ricardo-pepi-stands-among-top-scoring-teenagers-in-mls-histo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">fourth-all-time</a> in MLS goals scored by a teenager. Also, let’s remember that he is still 18. There will still be time for him to score a few more in his teenage years.</p>
<p>In his one appearance, his ability transferred seamlessly to the international game. Moreover, that is no easy task when playing on the road in CONCACAF.</p>
<h3>A true No. 9</h3>
<p>Taylor Twellman played the No. 9 position. He knows when someone has what it takes to play the role.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>“The No. 9 position has never been a question for the United States over the last 24 or 25 years.”&nbsp;</em>Twellman said.</p>
<p><em>“It is now.”</em></p></blockquote>
<p>With the likes of Clint Dempsey leading the line for a decade, the U.S. had a reliable presence in front of goal. His retirement left a void that no player has truly stepped into. Ricardo Pepi may be that name to fill the gap.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>“If Ricardo Pepi is playing at this level, and he is by no means a finished product,… what does that do to all the other players?”</em></p>
<p><em>“It completes the system.”</em></p></blockquote>
<p>Christian Pulisic likes to play wide, get creative and come inside. He bounces off the likes of Timo Werner or Romelu Lukaku at Chelsea. Gio Reyna’s link-up play with Erling Haaland at Borussia Dortmund allows him to flourish. Weston McKennie and Tyler Adams can take on more of a playmaker role when they have a reliable presence up top. Internationally, these players do not have that same talent.</p>
<div class="ckeditor-em"><iframe loading="lazy" src="https:\/\/w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A\/\/api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1121830570&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=false&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true&amp;visual=true" width="100%" height="200" frameborder="no" scrolling="no"><span data-mce-type="bookmark" style="display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;" class="mce_SELRES_start">﻿</span></iframe></div>
<div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc; line-break: anywhere; word-break: normal; overflow: hidden; white-space: nowrap; text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif; font-weight: 100;"><a style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" title="World Soccer Talk Podcast" href="https:\/\/soundcloud.com/worldsoccertalk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">World Soccer Talk Podcast</a> · <a style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;" title="Stark Differences Between FOX &amp; CBS World Cup Qualifying Coverage" href="https:\/\/soundcloud.com/worldsoccertalk/stark-differences-between-fox-cbs-world-cup-qualifying-coverage" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stark Differences Between FOX &amp; CBS World Cup Qualifying Coverage</a></div>
<p>Now, let’s not compare an 18-year-old that plays for FC Dallas to the world’s top strikers. Just for the international team, these players need an outlet than can steadily and consistently provide goals.</p>
<p>One game in, and Ricardo Pepi is doing just that.</p>
<h3>Building on a win</h3>
<p>Looking at the <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/2021/09/09/usmnt-makes-progress-but-key-vulnerabilities-still-exist-says-u-s-world-cup-goalscorer/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">USMNT’s win</a> over Honduras holistically, there is legitimate reason for optimism in the American camp.</p>
<p>When manager Gregg Berhalter released his starting XI against Honduras, everyone raised an eyebrow or two. Four players made their World Cup Qualifiers debut in a seemingly must-win game. Now, with a 4-1 win and a crucial three points, these young players have confidence and experience with a come-from-behind victory on the road.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>“You can say you know what it is going to feel like,”</em> Taylor Twellman said,&nbsp;<em>“it is not until you do it.”</em></p></blockquote>
<p>Taylor Twellman added that even the most experienced players looked shaky during this three-game stretch. Notably, John Brooks came off at halftime against Honduras due to his performance and a trailing scoreline.</p>
<div id="attachment_275574" style="width: 310px" class="wp-caption alignright"><div><figure class="image"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-275574" loading="lazy" class="size-medium wp-image-275574" src="https:\/\/ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https:\/\/images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/WST_20210909_WST_344980_gregg-berhalter-300x221.webp&amp;width=300&amp;height=221" alt="" width="300" height="221" srcset="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/07/gregg-berhalter-300x221.jpg 300w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/07/gregg-berhalter-150x111.jpg 150w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/07/gregg-berhalter-600x443.jpg 600w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/07/gregg-berhalter-200x148.jpg 200w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2019/07/gregg-berhalter.jpg 640w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px"></figure></div><p id="caption-attachment-275574" class="wp-caption-text">Photo credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports</p></div>
<p>Whatever people made of Gregg Berhalter’s decision leading up to the game, he nailed his substitutions. Ironically, that comes off the back of some criticism for waiting too long to make changes in their 1-1 draw with Canada.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>“This could be a pivotal moment for the United States under Berhalter,”&nbsp;</em>Twellman noted.</p>
<p><em>“However, I think we’re going to get a real good idea of that come October.”</em></p></blockquote>
<p>In October, the USMNT plays another set of three games. The team welcomes Jamaica and Costa Rica for home games, separated by a trip to Panama.</p>
<p>With five points from three games, Twellman says the team is slightly behind pace. The draw against Canada felt like a massive disappointment. But, the thumping victory over Honduras made amends.</p>
<p>Expect Ricardo Pepi to continue to appear on the scoresheet for the Americans.</p>


Taylor Twellman understands goal-scoring for the United States Men's National Team. The former striker believes a new name on the USMNT provides excitement.

Twellman says Ricardo Pepi is answer to its most glaring problem - World Soccer Talk

Twellman says Ricardo Pepi is answer to its most glaring problem

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<p>Two untimely draws set the USMNT on the back foot to open CONCACAF qualifying. However, a vital victory against Honduras powered by a dominant second-half performance Wednesday night may right the ship.</p>
<p>Take it from someone who knows what it takes to get the greatest tournament in sport. Qualifying in CONCACAF is not easy. Bruce Murray helped the United States to the 1990 World Cup in Italy. Additionally, <a href="https:\/\/m.football-lineups.com/match/64860" target="_blank" rel="noopener">he scored one</a> of the two U.S. goals at that tournament.</p>
<p>He has something that a select few of the current roster possess: World Cup experience. Regardless, many associate this current pool of U.S. men’s players with success and further potential.</p>
<p>Hard to argue that, I suppose. In fact, the squad put together by Gregg Berhalter this summer is a much-needed demonstration of success. A CONCACAF <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/2021/06/08/usa-mexico-concacaf-nations-league-final-watched-by-more-than-4-million-viewers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nations League</a> triumph and a <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/2021/08/02/usa-stun-mexico-in-extra-time-to-win-gold-cup-final/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gold Cup trophy</a> are nice tokens. Still, this team’s goals reach beyond success in North America.</p>
<p>This team wants, and expects, to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/world-cup-qualifiers-tv-schedule/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em><strong>READ MORE:</strong></em></a><em> How to watch World Cup Qualifiers on U.S. TV.</em></p>
<p>A former-USMNT member who played in a World Cup shared his thoughts on the current makeup of the team, and what they need to do to get back to the biggest stage in the sport.</p>
<h3>Bruce Murray Recalls CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying</h3>
<p>Fans of the sport know the challenges of playing in CONCACAF. Sure, it is not like playing France, Italy or Brazil each week, but the nations pose challenges many U.S. players are not accustomed to —&nbsp;as Murray explained to us in an exclusive conversation with World Soccer Talk.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>“In my generation, the fields were even worse,”</em> Bruce Murray said. <em>“You’re not at your physical and mental best. Can you figure out a way to get through all of those conditions?”</em></p></blockquote>
<p>The El Salvadorian crowds that opened the U.S.A.’s World Cup Qualifying slate gave this young roster a wake up call. Gio Reyna requiring protection from riot police while taking a corner, players slipping at inopportune times. The conditions are not what these players, many of whom play in Europe or the MLS, are comfortable with.</p>
<p>Undoubtedly, the conditions hampered the U.S. players. Bruce Murray commented on how the players on both teams looked tired as the game rolled on.</p>
<p>However, Murray also mentioned how, at that point, it comes down to simple physical effort.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>“I think the thing that bothered me most [during the first two games of this qualification window] was the grit and determination and winning the 50/50 balls.”</em></p></blockquote>
<p>Murray also discussed how the teams the U.S. frequently plays in CONCACAF are fast and physical. American teams of old needed to match the physicality of the opponent.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>“Are [the current USMNT members] better technical&nbsp;players? Probably. Did my generation have a little more determination and grit? Probably.”</em></p>
<p><em>“Either way, when that anthem goes off, you’re playing for your country.”</em></p></blockquote>
<div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-344936 alignright" src="https:\/\/ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https:\/\/images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/WST_20210909_WST_344928_Bruce-Murray-Card.webp&amp;width=265&amp;height=356" alt="Bruce Murray" width="265" height="356" srcset="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/Bruce-Murray-Card.jpg 265w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/Bruce-Murray-Card-150x202.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 265px) 100vw, 265px"></figure></div>
<p>That, according to Murray, is something the U.S. lacked in the first two-and-a-half games of 2022 World Cup Qualifying.</p>
<h3>The ‘golden generation’ of the USMNT</h3>
<p>We hear it all the time. This is the best USMNT ever. They are young. They are talented. Many of these players play with or against the best in the world over in European competition.</p>
<p>Therefore, we stand confused when this great team cannot pick up a win from two relatively easy qualifying games.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>“The players are getting opportunities that we never really got,”&nbsp;</em>Murray said about the current crop of players.</p>
<p><em>“I played in Europe, but it was very difficult to get playing time and to get signed by big teams.”</em></p></blockquote>
<p>That is not the case for this generation. You can find Americans receiving substantial and significant playing time in England, Germany, Spain, Italy and a number of other countries.</p>
<p>Bruce Murray also wants these players to understand that it does not all come down to pure talent. That surely helps, Christian Pulisic can dance around a handful of Hondurans or Canadians. However, true success does not come from pure talent.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>“This generation of players has to understand that it is not about my technique versus your technique,”&nbsp;</em>Murray added.</p>
<p><em>“It has to do with grit and determination during these qualifiers.”</em></p></blockquote>
<p>Tyler Adams, Ricardo Pepi and Brenden Aaronson showed some of that determination in the second half against Honduras. Now, it is about turning that result into a run of good form.</p>
<h3>Pushing out a consistent on-field product</h3>
<p>One thing that is challenging for a national team is to develop consistency. For example, the U.S. played their best game in the September international window in their final game against Honduras. Moreover, they played a dismal first half, followed by an electric second 45 minutes.</p>
<p>Still, the U.S. picked up five points from their first three games in this qualifying cycle. It is not great, but it is certainly an improvement on the 2018 cycle when they lost their first two games.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>“This is a confidence-boosting win,”&nbsp;</em>Bruce Murray said of the USMNT win over Honduras.</p>
<p><em>“To go down to a hostile environment and get those three points, the players have belief in themselves now.”</em></p></blockquote>
<div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-344944 alignleft" src="https:\/\/ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https:\/\/images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/WST_20210909_WST_344928_USMNT.webp&amp;width=275&amp;height=183" alt="" width="275" height="183" srcset="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/USMNT.jpg 275w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/USMNT-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/09/USMNT-300x200.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 275px) 100vw, 275px"></figure></div>
<p>Belief might go on to play an important factor in the U.S.’s hopes to qualify for Qatar 2022. Remember, the overwhelming majority of the current USMNT selection is making their debuts in CONCACAF World Cup qualifying. Only a handful of players actually played international soccer when the U.S. failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup.</p>
<p>Over the summer, it seemed like the USMNT made a dramatic turnaround. Perhaps, they were able to compete at the World Cup, rather than simply make an appearance.</p>
<p>Snap back to reality, qualification is no easy task.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>“It would be extremely, extremely problematic if we missed two World Cups in a row.”</em></p>
<p><em>“That mentality has to be ‘this is the most important game of my life, I need these three points’.”</em></p></blockquote>
<p>The USMNT returns to action with another set of three CONCACAF <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/world-cup-qualifiers-tv-schedule/">World Cup Qualifying games</a> in early October.</p>


Bruce Murray played in a World Cup. Essentially, he knows what it takes to get there and to compete, something the current USMNT is trying to do.

USA makes progress, but key vulnerabilities still exist - World Soccer Talk

USA makes progress, but key vulnerabilities still exist

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<p>In the inaugural World Cup in 1930, the United States finished third. Granted, only 13 nations qualified and, Argentina battered the Americans 6-1 in the semifinals.</p>
<p>In the 20 iterations of the competition since then, third place remains their best finish. In fact, the closest the Americans came occurred in 2002. Then, in South Korea, a 20-year-old Landon Donovan led the U.S. to the quarterfinals, losing 1-0 to Germany.</p>
<p>The&nbsp;<em>USMNT</em> is long-maligned in terms of their international success. They missed each rendition of the World Cup from 1954 to 1986, nine consecutive tournaments. Despite relative success in recent decades, the <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/podcasts/darkest-day-us-soccer-history-world-soccer-talk-podcast/">Americans missed the 2018 World Cup</a> in Russia after a calamitous October night in Trinidad and Tobago.</p>
<p>However, the United States is experiencing an unprecedented amount of youth success, recently edging Mexico in the CONCACAF Nations League and the Gold Cup finals. The success brings in <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/2021/06/08/usa-mexico-concacaf-nations-league-final-watched-by-more-than-4-million-viewers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">more American fans</a>, many of whom now expect success against other major soccer nations.</p>
<p>It would be hard to expect a bunch of 20-something-year-old players to deliver on the world’s stage by 2022 in Qatar. Moreover, many of these players are just trying to break into the first-team squads at their clubs. Undoubtedly, there is positive progress for the nation in the realm of soccer. Soccer fans in the United States are beginning to seriously look at the U.S. World Cup chances.</p>
<p>The question remains: will the United States ever win a World Cup, and what must they do to get there?</p>
<h3>United States’ World Cup chances rise with youth</h3>
<p>In years prior, it was a novelty to see an American playing for a major club in Europe. The aforementioned Landon Donovan appeared for Bayer Leverkusen, <a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/2008/12/21/landon-donovan-joins-bayern-munich/">Bayern Munich</a> and Everton. Tim Howard spent seasons at Manchester United before moving to Everton for a decade.</p>
<p>There are examples, but it was not commonplace.</p>
<p>Enter Christian Pulisic. We all know the story of the American phenom who burst through Borussia Dortmund’s academy. Pulisic is the first American to play in a UEFA Champions League Final, helping Chelsea beat Manchester City this past season.</p>
<p>The Pennsylvania-native carries an enormous burden on his shoulders. But, he has led other American youth to pursue their soccer careers in Europe. Players like Borussia Dortmund’s Gio Reyna or Sergino Dest, who became the first American to play for FC Barcelona in LaLiga, set a new standard. Now, there is a relative abundance of <a href="https:\/\/ussoccerplayers.com/usmnt-players-abroad" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Americans competing throughout Europe</a>.</p>
<p>The young players appearing for the United States’ men’s team illustrate the potential for the U.S. as a soccer federation. With these players receiving first-team minutes at major European teams, they play against top opposition. International soccer is an instance of learning to play the game in different ways. And, by extension, if these young players make a strong impact on the European scene, they bring that experience to the USMNT and their CONCACAF opposition</p>
<p>With success in the Gold Cup and the CONCACAF Nations League already apparent, the next logical step is defeating opposition from Europe or South America. Traditionally speaking, that track record is not as strong.</p>
<p>Pulisic is only 22 years old, but the USMNT captain positioned the new generation to realistically believe in U.S. World Cup chances going forward.</p>
<h3>A change of culture</h3>
<p>When the United States lost to Trinidad and Tobago in October 2017, it came as a shock to many Americans. Surely, a country with as much athletic talent as the United States could muster 11 players to beat Trinidad and Tobago. After all, the island nation’s population is smaller than just Hawaii.</p>
<p>With sports like American football, basketball, baseball and hockey demonstrating what Americans can accomplish, it makes a lack of true international success mind-boggling.</p>
<p>Perhaps the solution can be traced back to the roots in the country. Traditionally speaking, Americans value their ‘big four’ sports that command huge followings at the professional level. It is fun to watch a sport you play growing up, that cannot be denied.</p>
<p>When looking at viewership numbers across sports leagues in the United States, soccer is rising. In 2019, for example, average viewership of MLS games in the U.S. hit 268,000 people. Comparatively, the NHL was at 424,000 viewers. These are average numbers, and obviously some games will pull hefty audiences and other games might not.</p>
<div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-342281" src="https:\/\/ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https:\/\/images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/WST_20210902_WST_342277_MLS-fans-resize.webp&amp;width=1000&amp;height=662" alt="" width="1000" height="662" srcset="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/08/MLS-fans-resize.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/08/MLS-fans-resize-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/08/MLS-fans-resize-600x397.jpg 600w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/08/MLS-fans-resize-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/08/MLS-fans-resize-768x508.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px"></figure></div>
<p>That being said, if the United States’ World Cup chances are to improve, this reflects growth.</p>
<p>France, Germany, Spain, Italy and Brazil are the previous five World Cup winners. Soccer dominates these sports in terms of culture. It is&nbsp;<em>the</em> sport to watch, play and follow for men and women, old and young.</p>
<p>With more viewership of the sport in the United States, more people or families become invested in playing the sport. A culture change like this takes years or decades to be realized, but signs of progress are evident currently.</p>
<h3>Increasing the Opportunities</h3>
<p>In the 2000 European Championship, Germany picked up one point in three games in the group stage. They finished an embarrassing bottom of the group. The tournament served as a wake-up call for the nation’s soccer federation. They launched the <a href="https:\/\/www.dfb.de/en/projects/talent-development-programme/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Extended Talent Promotion Program</a> in 2003, following a World Cup Final defeat against Brazil. Over the following couple years, Germany and the DFB established 390 bases to train young players aged 11 to 17. Just one year after its announcement, the program aided over 22-thousand young boys and girls.</p>
<p>Nearly 20 years after the establishment of the program, and Germany’s results are tangible. A World Cup is the most glaring success, but what is more remarkable is the constant release of new, young talents throughout Germany.</p>
<p>To bolster the U.S World Cup chances, the first step is to create a similar program. The United States Development Academy reflects the Extended Talent Promotion Program in various ways. According to their own website, the U.S. Development Academy “<span>ensures the most elite players continue competing against each other.”</span></p>
<p><a href="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/2018/06/13/world-cup-2026-to-crown-decades-of-growth-in-north-america/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>READ MORE</strong></a>: <em>What the 2026 World Cup means for the United States as a host nation.</em></p>
<p>What needs to be enforced, however, is regulating who has access to the academy.</p>
<p>For many Americans, soccer is traditionally viewed as pay-to-play, allowing only wealthy families’ kids to play. As we see in relatively poorer nations like Brazil, money does not mean talent. In fact, the argument could go the other way, using players like Neymar as evidence.</p>
<p>To reach the next step in boosting U.S. World Cup chances, soccer must become available to low-income children throughout the country. Providing the youth to showcase their athletic abilities would tap into a market that would benefit the child, the team, the area and the sport as a whole.</p>
<p>Pay-to-play put a strangle on growth in the sport that is slowly being relieved. Now is not the time to take the foot off the pedal. Continued growth domestically will allow for future international success.</p>
<h3>Immediate Expectations</h3>
<div id="attachment_342351" style="width: 360px" class="wp-caption alignright"><div><figure class="image"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-342351" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-342351" src="https:\/\/ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https:\/\/images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/WST_20210902_WST_342277_lineup-1.webp&amp;width=350&amp;height=475" alt="" width="350" height="475" srcset="https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/08/lineup-1.png 350w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/08/lineup-1-300x407.png 300w, https:\/\/worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/08/lineup-1-150x204.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 350px) 100vw, 350px"></figure></div><p id="caption-attachment-342351" class="wp-caption-text">Potential starting XI for the USMNT in Qatar 2022.</p></div>
<p>Pulisic and the recent victories over Mexico make it easy to fantasize about what could be in store for the USMNT.</p>
<p>Realistically, it is hard to expect the U.S. World Cup chances to skyrocket so quickly. If anything, the goal should not be to win, it should be to simply compete. In 2014, the United States lost in extra time to a loaded Belgium team, but they were by far the lesser team in the contest.</p>
<p>In Qatar 2022, qualification for the tournament should not be a goal, it should be an expectation. Likewise, advancing out of the group stage should not come as a joyous surprise. The USMNT currently sits at No. 10 in the <a href="https:\/\/www.fifa.com/fifa-world-ranking/men?dateId=id13372" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Official FIFA Rankings</a>, their highest since 2005 (No. 8). The other teams in the top 10 expect a quarterfinals appearance. It may be time to expect the same out of the United States.</p>
<p>When the United States jointly hosts the 2026 World Cup with Mexico and Canada, there is legitimate reason to be excited as a fan. With the growth of the game exploding throughout the country, the United States’ World Cup chances could be palpable.</p>
<p>For now, fans of the USMNT need to support the team, grow the game and encourage youth development to reach the lofty goals they set for themselves.</p>


The United State's Men's National Team is making steady strides toward success. Is it time to start believing in the United States' World Cup chances?

ALL POSTS TAGGED "christian pulisic" - Page 9

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