US v Czech Republic
September 3rd 2014 @ 1:15 CST
Generali Arena – Prague, Czech Republic
Following the unforgettable run at the 2014 in Brazil, the US Men’s National team has little time to reminisce on the highs and lows of the World Cup. The focus for Jurgen Klinsmann immediately turns to Gold Cup 2015, Copa America 2016, as well as long-term preparations for Russia 2018.
It’s clear that Klinsmann was pleased with the progression through the group stage of the Group of Death, though he is not ultimately satisfied with the on-field product that came up just short of reaching the quarterfinals. What better time to begin the transition into the new generation of American talent than away friendlies in Europe?
The US will face the Czech Republic in Prague on Wednesday night looking to avenge the only 3 previous encounters with the home team, which resulted in losses for the USA. We do not forget, though it was eight years ago, the humiliating 3-0 loss that they suffered in the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Tomas Rosicky scored twice for the Czech Republic on that day, and is in the team that the US will have to face on Wednesday. Here’s the full roster of Pavel Vbra’s men:
GK: David Bicik, Petr Cech, Tomas Vaclik
DEF: Pavel Kaderabek, Michal Kadlec, David Limbersky, Vaclav Prochazka, Daniel Pudil, Radim Reznik
MID: Vladimir Darida, Borek Dockal, Tomas Horava, Petr Jiracek, Daniel Kolar, Ladislav Krejci, Milan Petrzela, Vaclav Pilar, Tomas Rosicky
FOR: Matej Vydra
For Jurgen Klinsmann, the theme is youth and trial. On paper, many USMNT players could be making their debuts on Wednesday. Much has been made of the new group of attacking players including Rubio Rubin, Bobby Wood, Jordan Morris, Joe Gyau, as well as midfielder Emerson Hyndman. US fans can expect to see a few of these as late substitutes on Wednesday. Here’s the full roster:
GK: Cody Cropper, Brad Guzan, Nick Rimando
DEF: John Brooks, Timmy Chandler, Greg Garza, Fabian Johnson, Michael Orozco, Tim Ream
MID: Alejandro Bedoya, Joe Corona, Mix Diskerud, Julian Green, Emerson Hyndman, Alfredo Morales, Brek Shea
FOR: Jozy Altidore, Joe Gyau, Jordan Morris, Rubio Rubin, Bobby Wood
USMNT players were not shy about the feeling the love from us during the World Cup in the stadiums, as well as bars across the country. American fans showed incredibly well throughout the last few months. Let’s keep the momentum. Giddy up.
We luv u,
AO
