The USMNT are in the endgame now. Tuesday's showdown against Iran is very simple...win and you're in. A loss or a draw will mean the Americans 2022 World Cup comes to an end. The US currently sit in 3rd place with 2 points, while Iran sit in 2nd place with 3 points. Iran just need a tie or better in order to advance. This means Iran will be playing very defensively and try their best to sit in a low block formation hoping for a quick counterattack. Like I said earlier, the Americans need to win so they will need to press for a goal. USA will need to breakdown this planned, congested Iranian defense. Guys like Weah and Pulisic will need to take people on 1v1 to free up space for a cross or or open shot.
This game might be scoreless until late. Iran will get tired towards the end because of the endless defending. The US will have plenty of shots outside the box so they better be ready crash the net in case of a deflection or a goalie error. The Americans will have a ton of crosses too so whoever plays striker, Sargent, Wright or Ferrerra, better be ready to convert some tough headers. The one thing US can't do is concede a counter attack goal early in this match. A disciplined, organized American back line is crucial for 3 points.
It is truly a gut check time for this young American squad. They've been in this position before during Concacaf qualifying and they persevered. It is time to step up now and take care of business. Maybe we get a moment like 2010 Landon Donovan:
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