In their last international friendly before Copa America 2024, the U.S. Men’s National Team will face Brazil in the Allstate Continental Clásico, where five young stars will have the opportunity to impress Gregg Berhalter after a shaky performance against Colombia.
With the Copa America just two weeks away, the USMNT is using their two international friendlies as a tune-up before they play Bolivia, Panama, and Uruguay in the Group Stage of the tournament. For the first time since 2016, the historic competition is back on U.S. soil, and the Stars and Stripes could get the rare chance to lift the Copa America trophy in front of a home crowd.
The hopes for the USMNT are high this summer, especially after winning the CONCACAF Nations League just three months ago, but a disappointing 5-1 loss to Colombia on June 8 raised plenty of questions about Berhalter’s squad.
Fortunately, the squad has a chance to redeem themselves at Camping World Stadium on Wednesday, June 12, as they clash with Copa America favorites, Brazil.
Here’s five young stars for the USMNT who need to step up and show their quality against Brazil.
1. Folarin Balogun
Folarin Balogun might have only committed to the U.S. in May 2023, but the striker already has three goals in his 11 caps for his country. Coming off a productive first season for Monaco, the 22-year-old seems poised to translate his success from Ligue 1 to his national team.
In fact, Balogun was one of the best players on the pitch for the U.S. against Colombia. He not only set up Tim Weah’s goal with a perfectly timed through ball, but also had a shot cleared off the goal line in the first half.
The USMNT will rely on Balogun to challenge Brazil’s central defense, featuring Real Madrid’s Éder Militão, with his speed and powerful right-footed shot if they want to avoid another lopsided score line.
2. Joe Scally
USMNT’s starting right-back, Sergino Dest, tore his ACL back in April, ruling him out of Copa America 2024. The injury is a blow to the Stars and Stripes’ backline, but Joe Scally is stepping into the role and gets another chance to show what he brings to the team against Brazil.
The Borussia Mönchengladbach defender will have his work cut out for him against the speed of Vinicius Jr., who just helped Real Madrid win the Champions League. By facing the…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at 90min EN…