United States coach Gregg Berhalter said this Wednesday that he is betting on a tight game against Panama in the second round of the Copa América-2024a match in which the local team will be able to guarantee qualification for the quarter-finals.
“I expect a very intense game (…) They have a lot of consistency with the group that is playing, especially the players up front, and the defensive line has changed a little, but it is very athletic, with full-backs who like to attack”, he analyzed Berhalter. “They have midfielders who like to control the game.
At the press conference prior to this Thursday’s game, at the Mercedes Benz Stadium, in Atlanta, the hosts’ coach highlighted that it will be necessary to be careful with long throws, as he believes that the Panamanians use them “very effectively”.
Prepped for Panama 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/O1JQb8Ljth
— U.S. Soccer Men’s National Team (@USMNT) June 26, 2024
Berhalter assured that Tyler Adams could be in the game, after the Bournemouth midfielder had to be substituted at half-time in the United States’ first match, in Arlington, Texas, in the 2-0 victory over Bolivia.
“Tyler is available to play, which is good news for the group,” he said.
Berhalter showed respect for Panama, who lost 3-1 to Uruguay in their debut. “Game number two is important for us. We are not yet focused on what comes after”, guaranteed the coach.
“I certainly hope the team will be very fierce,” agreed Yunus Musah, who replaced Adams in the previous match, referring to the Panamanian team. “She’s very aggressive, very athletic, very strong.”
Source: Gazetaesportiva
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