After suffering a defeat against Turkey, the United States Men`s National Team faces another significant challenge against a strong UEFA opponent, Switzerland. Ranked 20th globally, Switzerland is a consistently competitive side, often reaching the knockout rounds in major tournaments like the European Championships and World Cups. While they haven`t claimed a major title, Switzerland represents the level of performance the U.S. team aspires to reach.
Having lost three consecutive matches for the first time since 2015, pressure is mounting on the team and coach Mauricio Pochettino. The absence of key player Tyler Adams for this match adds another layer of difficulty as the squad prepares for the upcoming Concacaf Gold Cup. Following the match against Turkey where four players earned their first USMNT appearances, this game could see further debuts as Pochettino continues to evaluate potential players for the national team pool.
Historically, the team has struggled when essential players like Tyler Adams, Antonee Robinson, and Christian Pulisic are unavailable. This match offers an opportunity to demonstrate that the squad can perform effectively even without their full-strength lineup. As the players spend more time working under Pochettino`s guidance, developing stronger team cohesion is crucial. However, building this rapport is challenging when there are frequent roster changes; potentially only three starters from the 2022 World Cup loss to the Netherlands might start this game.
Prior experience playing together at youth levels or clubs provides some foundation, but Pochettino hasn`t had a consistent core group to select from since taking charge. With a schedule guaranteeing five matches during this international break, he will have opportunities to work with the squad, even if the personnel differs from initial expectations. Failing to secure positive results with this relatively consistent schedule, especially just a year out from the World Cup, could escalate concerns, though there is still time to improve the situation.
Match Information and Odds
- Date: Tuesday, June 10
- Time: 8 p.m. ET
- Location: GEODIS Park — Nashville, Tennessee
- TV: TNT
- Live stream: Fubo
- Odds: USMNT +200; Draw +220; Switzerland +130
USMNT Predicted Lineups
USMNT starters: Matt Turner, Max Arfsten, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Alex Freeman, Luca De La Torre, Jack McGlynn, Johnny Cardoso, Diego Luna, Patrick Agyemang, Malik Tillman
Player to Watch
Malik Tillman, USMNT: Coach Pochettino expressed satisfaction with Tillman`s performance against Turkey. While his assist to Jack McGlynn was heavily influenced by McGlynn`s skill, the PSV Eindhoven player showed glimpses of his potential. In the absence of Gio Reyna, the creative responsibility largely falls on Tillman and Diego Luna. Tillman is a highly-rated recruit for the USMNT whose strong club form hasn`t consistently translated to the national team level. A key objective during this camp under Pochettino must be integrating Tillman`s abilities effectively, as doing so would significantly raise the team`s offensive potential. He doesn`t need to constantly score or assist, but his ability to create chances and stretch defenses is vital.
Storyline to Watch
Demonstrating Progress: Ultimately, friendly matches serve as preparation and aren`t the sole indicator of Gold Cup success. Even Mexico lost to this Swiss team, yet they remain strong contenders for the Gold Cup title. The critical aspect for the USMNT in this match is to be competitive. This wasn`t always the case against Turkey, and a one-goal loss made that game seem closer than it was. Switzerland presents a different tactical challenge, and creating attacking opportunities might be difficult for the U.S., which is precisely why this match is a valuable test.
Prediction
Expect Switzerland to take an early lead and maintain their advantage. The USMNT is likely to show some improvement in possession compared to the Turkey match but may struggle to generate enough consistent offense to turn the tide. They could face their fourth consecutive loss before aiming for a fresh start in the Gold Cup.
Pick: USMNT 1, Switzerland 2
