/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49948939/usa-today-9218255.0.jpg)
As some of us had already predicted, Tim Howard will get the start between the sticks for the United States on Saturday night as they take on Colombia in the Copa America Centenario third-place match. U.S. Soccer confirmed the change in goal in a tweet on Friday:
.@J_Klinsmann announces @TimHowardGK will start in goal for the #USMNT tomorrow. #USAvCOL pic.twitter.com/wwwHM89klU
— U.S. Soccer (@ussoccer) June 24, 2016
It makes sense to give the veteran goalkeeper a match for his hard work during this camp and tournament. Klinsmann praised the incumbent starter Brad Guzan for his performances during his pre-match press conference after announcing the decision.
"Brad Guzan played a tremendous tournament ... He's totally on board to give Tim this game," Klinsmann said.
It's very doubtful that this decision is a reflection on Guzan. Apart from the first goal against Argentina, he had a very fine tournament.
This seems like a move just to get Howard a match. Possibly even a final match. It's rude to speculate, but when a legendary player reaches a certain age you have to wonder if any time you see them on the field, especially as a major tournament comes to an end, if this will be the last time you see them.
Howard has seen what his future looks like in this tournament. Will he be content being a back-up heading into the 2018 World Cup? We'll find out.