Underdog USMNT bringing confidence to World Cup opener and moment three decades in making
IRVINE, Calif.— The U.S.
has waited 32 years to play a World Cup on home soil.All that waiting finally ends Friday at SoFi Stadium against Paraguay.Team USA will kick off the world’s biggest sporting event as a huge underdog.
But with the nation marking its 250th birthday in the midst of the tournament, the team is aiming at making a deep run — maybe even celebrating by bringing home a long-shot title.“That’s the plan,” said defender Chris Richards, hoping to return from an ankle injury that cost him the final two tuneup friendlies.“If we can start off the World Cup with three points, not just for our confidence but also to show the group that we can be top dogs in this group and top dogs in this World Cup.So I think with a statement hopefully on Friday and three points, it’ll set the tone for this World Cup.”The tone of this World Cup is yet to be set.
It could end up remembered for corruption, price gouging and war between the U.S.and Iran — who could face off in the knockout rounds.Or it could be recalled for a thrilling Team USA run to a quarterfinal — or beyond.The latter would likely require beating Paraguay.Taking the full three points Friday would be not just a statement but a rarity.
While the U.S.has improved to the point where advancement from the group stage is expected, the squad has won just three games in the past five World Cups.Manager Mauricio Pochettino has endeavored to instill the mindset that victories on the biggest stage against the best foes are not just possible but expected.“Just confidence and belief in ourselves that we can do it, that we can go play against good teams, not be afraid,” Christian Pulisic said.
“Believing, having the confidence that we’re able to beat anyone; that’s what it is.And we’ve gained some experience, especially the last World Cup, a lot of guys being around.
Now, we have an opportunity to prove it.”Much of this roster came up together.Some on the roster experienced the h...