The United States Men’s National Team, USMNT, finished in second place in Group B over Iran and Wales. They are one of the five teams that are still unbeaten at the 2022 World Cup.
Gregg Berhalter’s side faces a major test in the round of 16. His team will be up against the Netherlands, as they finished as Group A leaders. Netherlands has been one of the teams that has been lethal in front of goal, with Cody Gakpo leading the front line.
Cody Gakpo is a player the United States should be weary of. The Dutchman has three goals in three World Cup games so far and has been lethal in front of goal for his club. He has twelve goals and fourteen assists in all competitions for PSV this season. He has also been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United. He is someone who will make the USA defense think twice before they make a wrong move that will lead to a defensive blunder.
The United States have conceded just one goal in the World Cup so far. They are solid in defense, but the attackers are not putting in more effort to create more big chances of scoring. Christian Pulisic has been trying his best to carry the USMNT all by himself in the World Cup. He could be a player Gregg Berhalter is hoping for.
The Chelsea forward had a minor knock in the match against Iran but made it clear that he will be available to face the Netherlands today. Excluding him from the starting lineup might be something Gregg Berhalter will have to think thoroughly about. He has a goal and an assist and has been their best player. Despite his poor form at Chelsea, he is putting up a world-class performance in the World Cup.
Louis van Gaal will probably start with the same lineup he used in the opening game against Senegal, with Memphis Depay replacing Vincent Janssen in attack. This will be a major blow for the United States, as their main player in attack is in doubt.