Tonight when the United States takes the field in Columbus, Ohio for a World Cup qualifier against Mexico, it will mean more than a soccer game. It will be the first time that a team representing that United States takes the field since Tuesday’s Presidential Election. While this is not the forum to discuss politics, this is a game our nation and our people need. Regardless of political affiliation, a large part of our nation is in a bad place right now and it needs something to pick them up. While soccer is not wildly popular in this country, this game between bitter regional rivals has the chance to bring people together and forget about the challenges that face this country, even if it’s only for a couple of hours.
Before I go into the importance of tonight’s matchup on the field, I want to discuss what the significance of it, off the field. Without going too deep into the politics of things, many people are down and need a boost, especially minorities who feel let down given the nasty rhetoric of the election and that’s why this game is huge in the healing process. When the United States take the field tonight, fans will see a diverse roster with African Americans, Latinos and immigrants. Those watching tonight will see Americans of all types representing the nation that they love so very much. While one soccer game can’t heal the wounds of a nation, it could go a long way in making Americans feel better about where we stand.
Now we turn to the battle on the field. The United States and Mexico have endured a long and tumultuous rivalry that will surely continue tonight. Both teams are looking to secure two points to put them on the right track to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia. The most interesting storyline for tonight’s game is that Tim Howard will get the start in goal over Brad Guzan. The thirty seven year old goalkeeper has been impressive in club play while leading the Colorado Rapids to the MLS Western Conference Finals. That stellar play has been enough for him to unseat Brad Guzan, who was the U.S. starter at this summer’s Copa America Centenario. The United States has put together a talented side that includes veterans such as Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore, and youngsters Christian Pulisic and Bobby Wood. The one notable omission from the roster is Clint Dempsey who is battling an irregular heartbeat. With that being said, the U.S. should have plenty of firepower considering Jozy Altidore is playing the best he has in years while leading Toronto F.C. to the Eastern Conference Finals in MLS.
The Mexicans, known as El Tri are looking to avenge an embarrassing seven goal loss to Chile the last time the played a meaningful game on U.S. soil during this summer’s Copa America. El Tri are led by Juan Carlos Osorio who plays a three man back line and that could prove costly against a confident American side. However, the Mexicans have some firepower of their own with regional Legend Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez and Andres Guardado leading the attack.
The United States have a serious home field advantage and that has to have Jurgen Klinsmann feeling good about his chances to come away with two points. Due to Mexico’s three man backline, the Americans will get their chances and come away with a 2-1 win to start World Cup qualifying.
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