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The great news is the United States have booked their spot in Sunday’s do-or-die semifinal round. The not-so-great news is they need full points against hosts and heavy favorites Mexico to ensure top spot in Group A and to play the runner-up from Group B. It may seem like a tall task on paper, but, as they say, that’s why they play the games.
The USMNT U-23s has a perfect defensive record through two matches, even if their performances at the back have been anything but. They’ll be put under immense pressure in this one as Mexico are scoring goals for fun with seven in two matches. How well the American shape absorbs pressure will go a long ways in determining the outcome of this group finale. If they can maintain their composure early and frustrate the hosts, they should get some chances to counter on the break.
Both sides will undoubtedly have at least one eye on the vastly more important semifinal round this weekend. Will that proposition of a all-or-nothing match looming on the horizon play a role in determining this outcome? It very well could at least alter both manager’s decision making when it comes to starting lineups and substitution patterns.
Lineups
United States lineup:
Almost showtime ⌛️
— U.S. Soccer YNT (@USYNT) March 25, 2021
Your U-23 #USMNT for tonight's @Concacaf Clásico! pic.twitter.com/XSLYBBLTqN
Mexico lineup:
#Preolímpica | ¡VAMOS, EQUIPO!
— Selección Nacional (@miseleccionmx) March 25, 2021
¡@Banorte_mx presenta el XI que dejará todo en la cancha por el liderato de grupo del Preolímpico! ⚽
¡A ganar el Clásico ante ! #TuBancoTuTiempo | #FMFporNuestroFútbol pic.twitter.com/Hx0wA9tuwU
How to Watch
Advertised Kick-off Time: 9:30 p.m. Eastern, 6:30 p.m. Pacific
Venue: Estadio Jalisco, Guadalajara
Available TV: Fox Sports 1 (English), TUDN (Spanish)
Available Streaming: Fox Sports Go (App/Website), TUDN (App/Website), fuboTV (Free trial)
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