CONCACAF Nations League 2019-20: Schedule, Live Stream for October Fixtures
Oct 10, 2019
United States midfielder Christian Pulisic in action during an international friendly soccer match against Mexico, Friday, Sept. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Mexico won 3-0. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
The United States play Cuba on Friday in the inaugural CONCACAF Nations League.
Canada top League A (Group A) after opening with two wins over the Cubans, and the leaders will play the U.S. on October 15.
The competition follows a similar format to UEFA's Nations League, and the four League A group winners will move on to the finals of the tournament in June 2020.
October Fixtures
Thursday, October 10
British Virgin Islands vs. Bahamas: 7 p.m. ET, 12 a.m. BST (Friday)
Sint Maarten vs. Turks and Caicos Islands: 7 p.m. ET, 12 a.m. BST (Friday)
Trinidad and Tobago vs. Honduras: 7 p.m. ET, 12 a.m. BST (Friday)
French Guiana vs Grenada: 8 p.m. ET, 1 a.m. BST (Friday)
Haiti vs. Costa Rica: 9 p.m. ET, 2 a.m. BST (Friday)
Belize vs. Saint Kitts and Nevis: 10 p.m. ET, 3 a.m. BST (Friday)
Friday, October 11
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines vs. Suriname: 3 p.m. ET, 8 p.m. BST
Antigua and Barbuda vs. Guyana: 5 p.m. ET, 10 p.m. BST
United States vs. Cuba: 7 p.m. ET, 12 a.m. BST (Saturday)
Bermuda vs. Mexico: 9 p.m. ET, 2 a.m. BST (Saturday)
Nicaragua vs Dominica: 10 p.m. ET, 3 a.m. BST (Saturday)
Saturday, October 12
Saint Martin vs.Cayman Islands: 3 p.m. ET, 8 p.m. BST
Dominican Republic vs St. Lucia: 6 p.m. ET, 11 p.m. BST
Jamaica vs. Aruba: 6 p.m. ET, 11 p.m. BST
Anguilla vs. Guatemala: 8 p.m. ET, 1 a.m. BST (Sunday)
Barbados vs. U.S. Virgin Islands: 8 p.m. ET, 1 a.m. BST (Sunday)
Montserrat vs. El Salvador: 10 p.m. ET, 3 a.m. BST (Sunday)
Sunday, October 13
British Virgin Islands vs. Bonaire: 3 p.m. ET, 8 p.m. BST
Saint Kitts and Nevis vs. Belize: 6 p.m. ET, 11 p.m. BST
Grenada vs. French Guiana: 7 p.m. ET, 12 a.m. BST (Monday)
Costa Rica vs. Curacao: 8 p.m. ET, 1 a.m. BST (Monday)
Honduras vs. Martinique: 10 p.m. ET, 3 a.m. BST (Monday)
Monday, October 14
Dominica vs. Nicaragua: 3 p.m. ET, 8 p.m. BST
Sint Maarten vs. Guadeloupe: 6 p.m. ET, 11 p.m. BST
Suriname vs. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: 7 p.m. ET, 12 a.m. BST (Tuesday)
Guyana vs. Antigua and Barbuda: 8 p.m. ET, 1 a.m. BST (Tuesday)
Tuesday, October 15
U.S. Virgin Islands vs. Barbados: 5 p.m. ET, 10 p.m. BST
St. Lucia vs. El Salvador: 5 p.m. ET, 10 p.m. BST
Aruba vs. Jamaica: 7 p.m. ET, 12 a.m. BST (Wednesday)
Dominican Republic vs. Montserrat: 7.15 p.m. ET, 12.15 a.m. BST (Wednesday)
Canada vs. USA: 7.30 p.m. ET, 12.30 p.m. BST (Wednesday)
Cayman Islands vs. Saint Martin: 7.30 p.m. ET, 12.30 a.m. BST (Wednesday)
Anguilla vs. Puerto Rico: 8 p.m. ET, 1 a.m. BST (Wednesday)
Mexico vs. Panama: 9.30 p.m. ET, 2.30 a.m. BST (Wednesday)
USA vs. Cuba will be shown live on Fox Sports 1, and Canada vs. USA will feature on ESPN2.
Further Nations League fixtures available via the tournament's officialwebsite. See the Nation League website for full group information.
USA Begin Nations League Campaign
October produces a double-header for the USA when they take part in their first Nations League fixtures.
Cuba have shipped seven in their two games against Canada, losing the away match 6-0 and suffering a 1-0 loss at home.
The bottom team in the group will be relegated to League B for the next edition of the tournament, and they will also enter the 2021 Gold Cup second-round qualifiers.
The Audi Field in Washington, D.C., will host Friday's encounter, but the U.S. will be without striker Jozy Altidore after he withdrew from the squad with a thigh injury.
The former Sunderland forward has been in good form for Toronto with 11 goals and five assists in the MLS this term.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JULY 07: Head coach Gregg Berhalter of the United States speaks with Michael Bradley #4 in the first half against Mexico during the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup Final at Soldier Field on July 07, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Dylan B
Per U.S. Soccer, American coach Gregg Berhalter said he's been closely scouting Cuba:
"We've watched their past games—whether that's the Gold Cup or the Nations League games against Canada. We have a good body of work on Cuba. The roster has turnover due to some unusual circumstances, but that's part of it. It's an athletic team, they have a standard level of technical ability and they will present some challenges. For us, it's about speed of play, breaking them down and trying to get the ball in front of goal as quickly as possible."
The Nations League was successful in Europe, allowing countries to play in a competitive environment not provided by friendlies. The new competition has raised the stakes, and with performance linked to rewards, each nation is gunning to do their best in every group.
USA vs. Korea Date, Time, Live Stream for 2019 Women's Soccer Friendly
Oct 6, 2019
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - OCTOBER 03: Head coach Jill Ellis of the United States watches on before their game against the Korea Republic at Bank of America Stadium on October 03, 2019 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
The United States women's national team are back in action Sunday, when they take on South Korea in the second match of their double-header of friendlies.
The sides squared off on Thursday at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, with the United States too strong for their opponents in a 2-0 win. They will be seeking a repeat result, with manager Jill Ellis taking charge for the final game of her glorious five-year tenure.
South Korea will be hopeful of being even more stubborn opposition when the sides face off at Soldier Field in Chicago. However, stopping a red-hot USWNT team will be a big challenge.
Here are the key viewing details for the fixture and a preview of what's to come during what promises to be an emotional occasion.
While the United States supporters are still rightly basking in the glory of the summer's FIFA World Cup success, the team's thoughts will be starting to turn towards 2020, when they will chase Olympic gold in Tokyo.
On Thursday, there was a professionalism about the performance. While South Korea were determined in defence and were able to pose some threat on the break, the United States were always in control of the contest:
Although the game was a friendly, it was a landmark match for a number of reasons. For Ellis, the win added another exceptional record to her already outstanding legacy:
After winning two World Cups with the USWNT, Ellis will go down as one of the greatest managers in the history of the women's game.
While there have been critics of the style of football during her tenure, when it came to the biggest matches, Ellis' teams were always able to produce their best. There's no doubt the squad will be keen to put on a show in Chicago to see her off in style.
Anthony DiCicco, the son of former United States manager Tony DiCicco—whose record Ellis broke with the win on Thursday—was in attendance to congratulate the coach on her latest achievement:
Ellis' time in charge has been defined by professionalism, and while there will no doubt be emotional scenes at the final whistle, she will want the team to take the game seriously.
South Korea would like to spoil the party too. Caitlin Murray of ESPN noted that they will need to cut out the basic errors if they are to do so:
You sense they will have a lot of defending to do again, as Ellis will surely field her strongest possible side for the final match of her reign. Although they were unable to find the net on Thursday, the movement and link-up play of Megan Rapinoe and Carli Lloyd kept the opposition defence occupied for the duration of the contest.
Occasionally, the second match of these back-to-back encounters can be a stodgy affair. However, the USWNT players will surely dig deep and find a strong performance for their manager before another chapter begins.
Prediction: United States 4-0 South Korea
USMNT Rise to 21st, Mexico Remain 12th in Latest FIFA Rankings
Sep 19, 2019
SAINT LOUIS, MO - SEPTEMBER 10: USMNT huddle during their International Friendly soccer match Uruguay at Busch Stadium, on September 10, 2019 in St. Louis, MO. (Photo by John Todd/ISI Photos/Getty Images)
The United States men's national team was among the risers in the latest FIFA rankings, moving up one slot into 21st position.
Rivals Mexico remain in 12th place. Belgium maintained their lead, ahead of world champions France and Brazil. Here is a look at the top 10:
🇧🇪 Belgium stay No1 🔝 🇽🇰 Kosovo reach highest ever position 📈 🇬🇩 Grenada biggest climbers 💪
Spain were the biggest movers in the top 10, jumping two spots into seventh place. The Netherlands rose three spots into 13th place, while Germany fell one spot, to 16th:
The USMNT's rise was somewhat surprising, considering they are winless in their last three matches. During the most recent international break, the Stars and Stripes lost 3-0 to Mexico and played out a 1-1 draw with Uruguay.
Poland lost to Slovenia and drew with Austria, however, dropping two spots and handing the USA 21st place as a result.
El Tri sit just a single point behind Switzerland in 12th place after beating the USA and losing 4-0 to an Argentinian team missing key players in Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero and Angel Di Maria.
The Netherlands built on their solid showing in the UEFA Nations League by beating Germany and Estonia in Euro 2020 qualifying. They're quickly closing in on the top 10 and will play four more qualifiers in 2019.
France beat Albania and Andorra by a combined score of 7-1, while Brazil drew with Colombia and lost to Peru in their most recent matches, opening the door for Les Bleus to reclaim second place. Leaders Belgium have won all of their qualifiers so far, conceding just a single goal in six outings.
Jordan Morris' Late Goal Gives USA Draw in Friendly vs. Uruguay
Sep 10, 2019
ST LOUIS, MO - SEPTEMBER 10: Sergiño Dest #18 of the United States Mens National Team looks to beat Brian Rodriguez #16 the Uruguay Men's National Team tot he ball at Busch Stadium on September 10, 2019 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images)
The United States men's national soccer team partially salvaged its international break with a 1-1 draw against Uruguay.
Four days after a brutal 3-0 loss to Mexico, the Americans bounced back in Tuesday's friendly with a better showing at Busch Stadium in St. Louis. Jordan Morris scored for the United States after a strong performance all game, evening the score in the 79th minute after a Brian Rodriguez goal initially gave Uruguay the lead.
Although it was mostly an ugly match, the result is encouraging against a quality opponent with a relatively inexperienced lineup.
Uruguay appeared to be in full control of the second half after a quiet first, utilizing the counterattack to perfection for the game's first goal.
Rodriguez found open space on the left side and then came through with an excellent finish to beat Brad Guzan in net:
Uruguay strike first! 🇺🇾
It's LAFC's Brian Rodriguez who opens the scoring with his first career international goal on just his second cap! #USAvURUpic.twitter.com/SgcV1Gb962
GOAL Uruguay, and it's LAFC's Brian Rodriguez with the beautiful move and blast, putting the move on Aaron Long before belting his shot past Guzan. 1-0 Uruguay, 51st minute.
The South American squad seemed ready to cruise to a 1-0 victory as the hosts looked listless for much of the second half. However, things finally changed in the 79th minute when a fortunate bounce led to a goal for Morris:
There was a little more energy after that, but the game ended with the score tied at one.
The Americans were easily the more aggressive team in the first half with 59 percent of possession and the only two shots on goal, even though there were no goals for either team.
They had several good chances in the opening 45 minutes despite failing to get it into the back of the net:
HOW!? 😱😱 Morris serves up a wonderful cross to Boyd but he skips it off the ground and over the bar from close range. #USAvURUpic.twitter.com/lLuDE1WAJL
Uruguay also got away with a handball just before the end of the half that should have resulted in a penalty shot.
Despite the positives, Taylor Twellman of ESPN put the match in perspective:
Damn near impossible to compare tonight to the 🇲🇽 game. Awkward field, lack of real energy in the stadium and an unusual passive approach from 🇺🇾 makes this a completely different “test”. Both teams should have scored while 🇺🇸 should’ve had a penalty. #USMNT
The contest also featured several notable young players hoping to become key parts of the future for USMNT, although few of them turned heads.
Sergino Dest started for the second straight match but showed his youth defensively and failed to make much of an impact further up the field. Josh Sargent played 75 minutes but only got one shot as he seemed to sit further back on the field than you want from a striker.
Paxton Pomykal made his national team debut in the 85th minute and showed flashes of great play but didn't play enough to make a real difference in the match.
The equalizing goal helps the U.S. leave with some momentum, although there is still a lot of room for development following the latest friendly.
What's Next?
The United States will get back to competitive matches in October with the CONCACAF Nations League.
Gregg Berhalter: Timothy Weah out of USMNT Squad with 'Very Bad Hamstring Tear'
Sep 3, 2019
LILLE, FRANCE - AUGUST 11: Timothy Weah of Lille during the French League 1 match between Lille v Nantes at the Stade Pierre Mauroy on August 11, 2019 in Lille France (Photo by Erwin Spek/Soccrates/Getty Images)
United States men's national team manager Gregg Berhalter has said a "very bad hamstring tear" kept forward Timothy Weah out of the squad for the friendlies against Uruguay and Mexico.
The Lille starlet was not called up for the most recent USMNT squad due to the problem, and Berhalter provided more information on the 19-year-old's condition after the 26-man party got together on Monday, per Yahoo Sports (h/t Ryan Tolmich of Goal).
"Weah has a very bad hamstring tear," said the USMNT boss. "He's getting rehab on that now. ... We would've given him a look in this camp. He's playing for Lille, doing a good job."
Although the teenager has already featured eight times for the national team, he has yet to be part of a squad since Berhalter took over in December 2018.
The United States will be without one of their brightest prospects in Weah for what promise to be two challenging matches. However, the manager still has a number of exciting young players to call upon for the games, per Scouted Football:
In total, the USMNT has called-up nine players aged 23-or-under for friendleis against Mexico and Uruguay:
🇺🇸 Corey Baird 🇺🇸 Reggie Cannon 🇺🇸 Sergiño Dest 🇺🇸 Weston McKennie 🇺🇸 Paxton Pomykal 🇺🇸 Christian Pulisic 🇺🇸 Josh Sargent 🇺🇸 Miles Robinson 🇺🇸 Jackson Yueill
Weah signed for Lille from Paris Saint-Germain this summer, and it'll be intriguing to see how he fares with the Ligue 1 runners-up in the upcoming term.
The previous season was disappointing, and he was sent on loan to Celtic from PSG in January 2019. The USMNT star made a total of 17 appearances for the Scottish champions but was only able to net four goals.
Following the sales of Rafael Leao and Nicolas Pepe this summer, there will be opportunities for Weah to impress for Lille in the coming months.
The forward will be desperate to shine on the international stage, too, with his only goal for the United States coming against Bolivia in 2018:
The next steps for Weah will be returning to full fitness and getting some games under his belt for his new side. He's made one start and one substitute appearance for Lille so far.
In addition to Weah, Berhalter will also be without the injured trio of Tyler Adams, Matt Miazga and DeAndre Yedlin. The team face Mexico on Saturday, September 7, before a showdown with Uruguay on Wednesday, September 11.
B/R Football Ranks: 5 Ways to Make USMNT Relevant at the 2022 FIFA World Cup
Jul 8, 2019
CHICAGO, IL - JULY 07: Christian Pulisic of USA walks past the CONCACAF Gold Cup trophy after USA's 0-1 defeat to Mexico in the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup Final between Mexico and United States of America at Soldier Field on July 7, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images)
For many, the USA's 1-0 CONCACAF Gold Cup final loss to Mexico on Sunday will leave a bitter taste in the mouth.
Losing to your great rivals is hard to take—particularly in a final, and doubly so if it's a fifth final. The United States men's national team were once again unable to emulate the women, who retained the FIFA Women's World Cup in France earlier in the day, drawing another stark, unflattering comparison between the two.
However, while it may seem hard to believe right now, there is light flickering at the end of the USMNT tunnel. It's faint but it's there, and the work done in 2019 has inched us closer towards it.
Given the disarray this team has been in sincethat night in Couva, Trinidad, in 2017, this summer's work—from the under-20's success to the senior side's progress—should go some way to quelling the fears and discontent surrounding the setup.
In fact, with proper planning, June and July's graft can act as a springboard to returning the USMNT to relevancy in time for the 2022 World Cup.
With a little help from former USA international Alexi Lalas and B/R's Joe Tansey, B/R Football has produced a five-point plan for the U.S. to follow moving forward, geared towards sculpting a squad, atmosphere and style that can take them not just into the 2022 World Cup, but perhaps also go some way to emulating the USWNT's magnificent achievements.
1. Back Gregg Berhalter
USA's coach Gregg Berhalter stands for the anthems ahead of the CONCACAF Gold Cup quarterfinal football match between USA and Curacao in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on June 30, 2019. (Photo by DOMINICK REUTER / AFP) (Photo credit should read DOMINI
Public opinion of USA manager Gregg Berhalter is vividly split.
Some fans are delighted with the positive signs his team are showing and the tactical authority he's wielding, while others point to inconsistent performances and the fact his brother, Jay, holds a high position at the United States Soccer Federation and start to question a few things.
One thing everyone can agree on, though, is that, bit by bit, the U.S. are moving forward on the pitch.
"Berhalter has a specific way of playing and it's going to take time for everyone to execute it perfectly because he is so detail-oriented," Tansey says. "But it's a concrete plan and that's something that was lacking during the Jurgen Klinsmann era."
"He has set about implementing a more possession-based system and a commitment to playing out of the back,” Lalas adds. "This is a departure from the past."
United States head coach Gregg Berhalter (C) walks on the field during a training session at Soldier Field on July 6, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois, a day before the 2019 Concacaf Gold Cup final between Mexico and United States. (Photo by KAMIL KRZACZYNSKI /
The football we saw played by the USMNT at the Gold Cup was more modern than anything we've seen in some time. It was also more coordinated and played with a clear intent—even if the level fluctuated a bit too wildly for comfort.
The patient, possession-based formula led to some big scorelines, long periods of control, and a lot of clean sheets; all three of these things are intrinsically linked. It's no surprise the goals came in late flurries either, as the U.S. tired opponents out via relentless ball circulation, controlling their own energy levels in some hot conditions in the process.
Having taken the reins in December 2018, this was Berhalter's first major tournament at the helm, offering us a first chance to see how his plans play out on the field with everyone (injured players aside) available and on a fitness parallel.
The results have been strong and the performances encouraging: enough to believe the team is in capable hands without a doubt.
2. Pick Better Squads
WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 05: Josh Sargent #19 of the United States and Peter Vassell #16 of Jamaica battle for the ball in the second half during an International Friendly at Audi Field on June 5, 2019 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Ima
Even those fans content with the on-pitch progress Berhalter is making with the team have underlying concerns about the squads he picks.
A seeming reluctance (at times) to select Europe-based players has frustrated, and he's utilised a core of players he managed at Columbus Crew who may have served their purpose.
At least in the short term, this made sense—"All coaches have their favourites, players they know and trust," argues Lalas—and the footballing calendar worked against Berhalter early on. Appointed in December, his first chance to look at the squad was the January camp for MLS players, so those playing elsewhere lost ground immediately.
But with the Gold Cup now done, patch jobs on the XI and squad won't be tolerated. If this team is to make the leap, certain players will have to be phased out and others must be looked at.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JULY 07: Raul Jimenez #9 of the Mexico dribbles the ball while being defended by Michael Bradley #4 of the United States in the second half during the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup Final at Soldier Field on July 07, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois
"The question is if the U.S. has the talent to play the style that he wants," Lalas says, and that question was asked loudly throughout the tournament with regard to certain players.
For example, Michael Bradley has been pinging passes around for fun these past few weeks, but his off-the-ball sluggishness stands out for the wrong reasons in Berhalter's high-energy system.
Gyasi Zardes has been an effective forward, and his history with Berhalter at Columbus has made him an important early piece. But with the attacking talent coming through at youth level, his days may be numbered.
There are going to be some tough decisions to make, but also some obvious, easy ones that fans will expect to see. At the very least, you expect John Brooks and Tyler Adams to strengthen the XI once they're back from injury.
3. Integrate the Next Generation
GDYNIA, POLAND - JUNE 8: Tim Weah of USA celebrates scoring a goal during the FIFA U-20 World Cup Quarter Final match between United States and Ecuador on June 8, 2019 in Gdynia, Poland. (Photo by Piotr Matusewicz/PressFocus/MB Media/Getty Images)
There's palpable excitement around the USA's impressive younger generation, with their performances at this summer's Under-20 World Cup inspiring confidence.
Their run to the quarter-finals may not look like particularly special on paper—it's the same stage they reached in 2017, after all—but given they beat France and only lost to Ecuador (South American champions, third at the World Cup) and Ukraine (winners), it stands as a very promising campaign.
Tim Weah was the poster-boy of the group and his talent is no secret, but several others rose to the fore during the five games in Poland.
Chris Richards was the pick of the bunch, a centre-back who dominated in the air and swept the channels well. He's learning his craft at Bayern Munich, which is an incredibly good sign.
GDYNIA, POLAND - JUNE 08: Chris Richards of USA controls the ball during the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup Quarter Final match between USA and Ecuador at Gdynia Stadium on June 8, 2019 in Gdynia, Poland. (Photo by TF-Images/Getty Images)
Then there was Sergino Dest and Chris Gloster, a flying full-back for each flank; Paxton Pomykal, a do-it-all midfielder; Alex Mendez, whose wand of a left foot is one to monitor; and Sebastian Soto, whose poaching instincts and movements impressed.
All seven have the potential to feature for the USMNT—some sooner rather than later. Richards, Gloster, Mendez and Soto need time, but Pomykal and Weah could step in now. Dest's readiness depends on exactly what Berhalter demands from the right-back role.
There have been calls for more Europe-based players to receive call-ups, therefore increasing the quality in the squad, but this young crop is not to be ignored.
Berhalter will have to mix it all in together.
4. Build Around Christian Pulisic
NASHVILLE, TN - JULY 03: Christian Pulisic of USA during the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup Semi Final between Jamaica and United States of America at Nissan Stadium on July 3, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images)
Throughout the Gold Cup, Berhalter was keen to stress the importance of team play and work ethic, and he praised players more for their defensive efforts than their offensive equivalents.
This seemed to apply double to Pulisic, whose tireless off-the-ball efforts against Curacao earned rave reviews from his coach, who stressed the importance of the 21-year-old's defensive work even when clearly tired.
But as much as Berhalter stresses team ethic and collective work as vital, he knows deep down every move he makes—be it tactical or with regard to the squad selection—must be at least partially aimed at emphasising one individual.
Putting Pulisic in the best possible position to make the difference will make or break the USMNT's next cycle.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - JUNE 30: Weston Mckennie #8 of the United States (L) celebrates his goal with teammate Christian Pulisic #10 against Curacao during the first half of the CONCACAF Gold Cup Quarterfinals match at Lincoln Financial Field on June
That means continuing to make him the focal point of the system, fielding players around the new Chelsea signing who complement and enhance him, and bearing him in mind when trying new ideas or even when considering where, say, Weah or Josh Sargent fits into the side in the long term.
Pulisic looked good at the Gold Cup, given a freer role in attacking midfield that allowed him to drift to either flank or penetrate centrally. Whether he was skipping challenges, teeing up chances just inside the box or floating in crosses, no team was able to pin him down.
In particular, he's shown an excellent understanding with Weston McKennie—their connection brought the winner against Curacao—and Paul Arriola, whose USMNT career has received a shot in the arm after some excellent Gold Cup showings.
In public, Berhalter will continue insisting it's about the collective, as he should; privately, though, he'll consider how every decision he makes impacts his star pupil.
5. Change the Mentality
"Given the epic failure of the 2018 World Cup qualifying, Berhalter's biggest challenge is winning back the faith of the American community,” Lalas says. "There is an unprecedented level of scepticism, cynicism and anger regarding this team. Worse, there is an apathy."
On the men's side, the U.S. have never been, or even come close to being, the very best in the business. Time and again, though, they've punched above their weight thanks to a combination of believing in themselves and the fans reciprocating.
But that's just not happening at the moment.
CHICAGO, IL - JULY 07: Christian Pulisic of USA walks past the CONCACAF Gold Cup trophy after USA's 0-1 defeat to Mexico in the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup Final between Mexico and United States of America at Soldier Field on July 7, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois.
Few nations can call upon the mass of support, the organised fan culture and the unbridled enthusiasm the U.S. can. Those things are powerful tools that can truly make a difference. Unfortunately, due to years of mismanagement and underachievement, some of those tools are no longer at the their disposal.
The only way to restore the connection between fans and team is to inspire as a unit once you've crossed the white line. One player in Pulisic isn't enough, as 2018 laid brutally clear; it must come from the players, the manager, the federation, and the system all at once.
"Berhalter has to get people to believe again, to care again," Lalas says. And it starts on the field.
USA vs. Curacao: Odds, Live Stream, TV Schedule for 2019 Gold Cup
Jun 29, 2019
KANSAS CITY, KS - JUNE 26: Gregg Berhalter the head coach / manager of USA during the Group D 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup match between Panama v United States of America at Children's Mercy Park on June 26, 2019 in Kansas City, Kansas. (Photo by Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images)
The USA take on Curacao in the quarter-finals of the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup on Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
The hosts topped Group D with a maximum nine points, while their opponents finished second in Group C with four.
In the semi-finals, the winner of this clash will face either Jamaica or Panama, who face off at the same stadium earlier in the day.
Team USA lost both of their warm-up fixtures ahead of the tournament against Jamaica and Venezuela, but a solid showing in the group stage saw them return three wins and 11 unanswered goals.
After securing a quarter-final berth with a 4-0 win over Guyana and a 6-0 thrashing of Trinidad and Tobago, manager Gregg Berhalter named a much-changed side for the final clash with Panama, which determined who topped the group.
Jozy Altidore made the difference in a hard-fought 1-0 win:
Aside from the Toronto striker, ESPN's Jeff Carlisle wasn't overly impressed with the U.S. against Panama, but he nevertheless noted that the match went to plan for Berhalter:
FT: The #usmnt prevails 1-0 on Altidore's bicycle kick goal. Can't see anyone else who did enough to crack the starting lineup in the knockout rounds. But Berhalter banked on the fact that he could rest many of his key players and still win the group, and that plan paid off.
Berhalter said he isn't going to let complacency sink in against Curacao, per Carlisle:
"This is a team we can't take lightly; I know that for sure. We're going to go in fully prepared, we were watching them today before the game, this afternoon with the coaches, and they have talent, they can score goals. ... We know it's going to be a difficult game and we have our sights set on advancing, so we're really going to prepare the best we can."
Curacao began their campaign with a 1-0 defeat to El Salvador, but they made it to the group stage on goal difference after a 1-0 win over Honduras and a 1-1 draw with Jamaica, which was sealed with a superb strike:
It seems unlikely they'll cause the United States too many problems after finding the net just twice in the group stage, though they also conceded just two—the hosts are the only quarter-final side with a better defensive record.
Gyasi Zardes has three goals for the U.S., while three players—Tyler Boyd, Aaron Long and Paul Arriola—have netted twice, while Altidore is off the mark, too.
The USA should be able to progress, but it won't be straightforward.
Gold Cup 2019: Final Look at Group Results, Tables Before Quarter-Final Fixtures
Jun 27, 2019
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 25: Darryl Lachman #4, Elson Hooi #18, Gervane Kastaneer #14, and Ayrton Statie #21 of Curacao react to scoring in a goal in extra time during the second half of the Jamaica v Curacao: Group C - 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup match at Banc of California Stadium on June 25, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
The 2019 Gold Cup group stages came to an end on Wednesday night, with all of the sides expected to challenge for the prize making it into the quarter-final bracket.
The United States and Mexico have traditionally battled for this trophy and are each looking in fine fettle, having won all three of their group games. Meanwhile, Haiti have emerged as a surprise package, topping a Gold Cup group for the first time.
Curacao are the other surprise side in the quarters, as they finished behind Jamaica in Group C. The remaining teams in the bracket are Canada, Costa Rica and Panama.
Here are the group tables and results after all the matches were completed, as well as a look ahead to what to expect in the last eight.
Final Group Standings (Points, Goal Difference) and Results
Group A
1. Mexico (9,10)
2. Canada (6,9)
3. Martinique (3,-2)
4. Cuba (0,-17)
Canada 4-0 Martinique
Mexico 7-0 Cuba
Cuba 0-3 Martinique
Mexico 3-1 Canada
Canada 7-0 Cuba
Martinique 2-3 Mexico
Group B
1. Haiti (9,4)
2. Costa Rica (6,4)
3. Bermuda (3,0)
4. Nicaragua (0,-8)
Haiti 2-1 Bermuda
Costa Rica 4-0 Nicaragua
Nicaragua 0-2 Haiti
Costa Rica 2-1 Bermuda
Bermuda 2-0 Nicaragua
Haiti 2-1 Costa Rica
Group C
1. Jamaica (5,1)
2. Curacao (4,0)
3. El Salvador (4,-3)
4. Honduras (3,2)
Curacao 0-1 El Salvador
Jamaica 3-2 Honduras
El Salvador 0-0 Jamaica
Honduras 0-1 Curacao
Jamaica 1-1 Curacao
Honduras 4-0 El Salvador
Group D
1. United States (9,11)
2. Panama (6,3)
3. Guyana (1,-6)
4. Trinidad & Tobago (1,-8)
Panama 2-0 Trinidad & Tobago
United States 4-0 Guyana
Guyana 2-4 Panama
United States 6-0 Trinidad & Tobago
Trinidad & Tobago 1-1 Guyana
Panama 0-1 United States
Quarter-Final Fixtures (ET)
Saturday, June 29
7 p.m. Haiti vs. Canada
9:30 p.m. Mexico vs. Costa Rica
Sunday, June 30
5:30 p.m. Jamaica vs. Panama
8 p.m. United States vs. Curacao
BR Video
With the pre-tournament favourites progressing with minimal fuss, the sides performing above expectations have captured the imagination so far.
It's been a campaign to remember for Haiti, who capped off their group stage with a fantastic comeback win over Costa Rica. After successes over modest opposition in Bermuda and Nicaragua in their first two games, beating Los Ticos suggests they're a team capable of doing some more damage in the tournament.
It will be Canada for them in the quarters, where Haiti will be tasked with containing some of the best young talent at the Gold Cup. Bayern Munich's Alphonso Davies has been a threat for the Canucks, but 19-year-old Jonathan David has stood out, netting five times at the tournament so far to see him lead the Golden Boot race:
Alphonso Davies gets the headlines. By my word, Jonathan David is some player. Can’t recall #canMNT ever having a forward like him.
The other shock story has been Curacao, who edged into the knockout stages from a tight Group C thanks to a 1-1 draw with Jamaica.
Their progression couldn't have been much more dramatic, with this stunning stoppage-time equaliser from Jurien Gaari enough to see them into the last eight for the first time ever:
Goal's Jon Arnold paid tribute to the development of the nation in recent years to make it to this point:
Curacao has to be Concacaf's poster child. They make #GoldCup in 2017. Come out, try to play football. Lose every game 2-0, but do so with dignity. They continue with the project. Win 3 Nations League games. Get their first Gold Cup goal & with it their first win. Now knockouts!
They face a huge task in the quarter-finals against defending champions United States. While the USMNT have shown vulnerabilities over the last 12 months, at the Gold Cup they have been improved, with their 6-0 win over Trinidad & Tobago arguably the best display from any team so far.
In attack, the team has been especially potent:
The USMNT wins Gold Cup Group D, thanks to Jozy Altidore's 42nd career goal for the USA.
The 11 goals scored by Team USA in group play match their most in a single Gold Cup group stage (also had 11 in 2013).
Meanwhile, Mexico may be without a number of key creators and goalscorers at the Gold Cup, yet they've been able to navigate through Group A with ease. They'll be the big favourites up against Costa Rica, who have yet to find their groove.
The remaining quarter-final sees Jamaica face Panama, with the former seeking to go one better than their runners-up finish in the Gold Cup two years ago.
Jozy Altidore Scores, Leads USA Past Panama to Top Group D at 2019 Gold Cup
Jun 26, 2019
The United States men's national soccer team defeated Panama 1-0 in a de facto Group D title game in the 2019 Gold Cup at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas, on Wednesday.
After each squad won its first two matches of the tournament, this clash would determine the final standings for Group D, with positioning in the quarterfinals at stake. Thanks to a strong edge in goal differential, Team USA entered play with the ability to wrap up first place with a draw or a victory.
Below is a look at the latest tournament action.
Group D Standings
United States 3-0-0, 9 pts, +11 goal differential
Panama 2-0-1, 6 pts, +3 goal differential
Guyana 0-1-2, 1 pt, -6 goal differential
Trinidad and Tobago 0-1-2, 1 pt, -8 goal differential
With Group D on the line, neither team could come up with many quality looks early on in what turned out to be a fairly uneventful first half. But when tested, both the United States' Sean Johnson and Panama's Jose Calderon proved to be up to the task.
It wasn't until the 21st minute that either team had much of a scoring opportunity. While Jozy Altidore managed a clean look, he was unable to beat Calderon:
That would prove to be the closest either team would come to scoring in the first half, though there were a few other looks as well.
Just like in the first half, the second half began in quiet fashion. Looking to spark his team, United States coach Gregg Berhalter inserted Christian Pulisic in the 65th minute...and the offense instantly came to life.
On the ensuing corner kick, Altidore got USMNT on the board with a bicycle kick:
That would prove to be the game's only goal—and it was enough to get the United States the points it needed to wrap up the victory.
On a night where the United States only needed a draw, Berhalter elected not to start Pulisic, Gyasi Zardes or Zack Steffen. While it may not have been the prettiest of victories, the team found a way to get the job done.
Perhaps most importantly, Altidore's standout performance did not go unnoticed:
Gyasi Zardes replaces Jozy Altidore in the 82nd minute. Big goal and strong showing for Altidore, who makes his case to be the starter in the knockout rounds. One of the few real bright spots tonight for the #USMNT
Jozy Altidore departs after a good showing and a big goal. No doubt Berhalter will be scratching his head over the next few days with regards to who his starting forward will be in the #GoldCup QF's #USMNT
Having Altidore play at a high level could be the key to Team USA defending its title and winning its third crown in its last four attempts.
What's Next?
Both teams are on to the quarterfinals, where they will each be back in action Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. Panama will face Jamaica at 5:30 p.m. ET, and the United States will take on Curacao at 8:30 p.m. ET.
Gyasi Zardes, USA Men's Team Dominate Trinidad and Tobago 6-0 in 2019 Gold Cup
Jun 22, 2019
The United States men's national team was on edge against Trinidad and Tobago until Aaron Long headed home a cross from Christian Pulisic in the 41st minute on Saturday at FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland.
It proved to be the spark plug, as the U.S. finally found an offensive rhythm in the second half and defeated Trinidad and Tobago 6-0 to advance to the knockout stage of the 2019 Gold Cup and avenge its 2017 loss that kept the team out of the 2018 World Cup.
Long's first goal—he notched a brace in the 90th minute—buried an otherwise underwhelming performance from the American side in the first half.
The header came up big for the U.S. again in the 66th minute when Nick Lima headed a cross toward Gyasi Zardes, who tapped it home. Zardes completed the brace in the 69th minute after Pulisic set him up at the top of the box.
And then Pulisic added a goal of his own to his two assists in the 73rd minute.
The U.S. did well to generate more chances in the second half. One of the Americans' best looks came when Weston McKennie threaded a perfectly timed through ball to Paul Arriola, whose shot landed just wide.
Just wide!
Weston McKennie sends a perfect pass into the path of Paul Arriola who puts it just wide of the net. pic.twitter.com/1x77AjhyyM
While that particular play was fruitless in this game, it illustrates the type of passing attack the U.S. needs to sustain throughout a full 90 minutes if it wants to have a chance against stronger competition in the knockout stages.
More specifically, Pulisic's increased involvement and production in this game compared to the opener against Guyana is paramount for the U.S. moving forward:
Pulisic putting on an absolute clinic in the 2nd half. His movement off the ball, his decision making in final 3rd situations to open the game, and his pressure on the ball are all things that make him so good and so important to #USMNT.
Another encouraging development in the second half for Gregg Berhalter's squad was Jordan Morris, who clocked his first Gold Cup minutes when he replaced Tyler Boyd in the 61st minute. Morris contributed two assists and provided reliable depth for an injury-riddled side.
Can’t forget about Long. who had the all-around game that provided a reminder of why he is going to be so important to the #USMNT ‘s hopes of winning the Gold Cup.
As a whole, the U.S. looked much crisper in the attack than it did against Guyana. The final game of group play against Panama, which defeated Trinidad 2-0 in its opener and Guyana 4-2 earlier Saturday, should be the next step in building a cohesive game from start to finish ahead of the quarterfinals and beyond.
What's Next?
The U.S. will finish Group D play against Panama, while Trinidad and Tobago will wrap up against Guyana. Both matches are set for Wednesday at Children's Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas.
