USA have their next World Cup opponents “99.9 per cent confirmed” before they even play their final group stage game.
Mauricio Pochettino‘s side top Group D on six points after winning their opening two matches – securing their qualification already.
USA have their next World Cup opponents ‘99.9 per cent’ confirmed Credit: AP
USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino Credit: AP
And they play Turkey – already out of the tournament – on Friday with their next opponents essentially sorted.
Bosnia and Herzegovina are in the race to secure a place in the last 32 as one of the eight third-placed sides
The eight best third-placed teams qualify for the last 32
That is determined by points, goal difference, goals scored, fair-play status and Fifa ranking.
face the third- placeteam in either B, E, F, I or J and currently Bosnia are 99.9 per cent set to be that side.
Americans have turned out in droves to support the US, and Pochettino has not been blind to that support.
“I didn’t recognize it,” Pochettino said following the US’ opening win over Paraguay.
“That was a complete I think different vibe, different energy. The fans were so engaged with us. That was amazing.”
That support means just as much to Pochettino as success does at the World Cup.
“For me, that is the most important legacy, the connection between the national team and the fans,” Pochettino said.
“Of course, we want to win. But that is the legacy that we need… Why not to be part of it?”
But the 54-year-old former Tottenham and manager’s contract expires after the World Cup – amid rumours of a return to European football.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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