Ladies and gentlemen, The Weeknd! Friday is upon us, the best day of the week, all the more so when we’ve got so much football ahead of us. The US, both WNT and MNT, are in action while the Club World Cup knockout stages begin on Saturday. I’m James Benge, now off we go!
📺 Footy fix
All times U.S./Eastern
Friday, June 27
🌍 Friendly: Spain vs. Japan, 3 p.m. ➡️ CBS Sports Network
Saturday, June 28
🏆 CWC: Palmeiras vs. Botafogo, 12 p.m. ➡️ DAZN
🏆 CWC: Benfica vs. Chelsea, 4 p.m. ➡️ DAZN
🇺🇸 MLS: FC Dallas vs. San Diego, 8:30 p.m. ➡️ MLS Season Pass
🌎 Gold Cup: Mexico vs. Saudi Arabia, 10:15 p.m. ➡️ FS1
Sunday, June 29
🏆 CWC: PSG vs. Inter Miami, 12 p.m. ➡️ DAZN
🏆 CWC: Flamengo vs. Bayern Munich, 4 p.m. ➡️ DAZN
🌎 Gold Cup: USMNT vs. Costa Rica, 7 p.m. ➡️ FS1
🌍 Friendly: USWNT vs. Republic of Ireland, 9 p.m. ➡️ Max
⚽ The Forward Line
🏆 Are Manchester City the Club World Cup favorites?
With the Club World Cup’s group stage at its end, it is still early to draw conclusions on Europe’s top sides. Many presumed contenders appear either to be adjusting for next season or a bit disinterested, leading to heavy punishment from their Brazilian rivals. Manchester City, led by Pep Guardiola, emerges as a strong contender, having won all three preliminary matches, including an impressive 5-2 victory over Juventus.
Guardiola noted:
“It has been a long time since we had a performance like this on and off the ball. The players were committed, and we are happy to beat a top side. This is just one game, but I think the players felt again what it was like to be a good team.”
The dominance demonstrated was reminiscent of their past excellence, with 76% possession generating 24 shots and almost 4 expected goals. Their squad depth showed with players like Jeremy Doku and Savinho making significant contributions.
Furthermore, the return of Rodri instilled confidence in Guardiola, emphasizing:
“In the last few games, we have conceded many transitions, but it didn’t happen this time. Everyone knows how crucial Rodri is. He is one of the best players in the world. When they’re not in a team, they’re missed.”
This performance sets the stage for City to aim high in their forthcoming clashes in the knockout stages.
🔗 USMNT Prepares for Costa Rica
As the knockout matches of the Gold Cup approach, the USMNT is bracing for a formidable challenge against Costa Rica. Despite an unimpressive tournament thus far, Costa Rica’s defense, led by veteran goalkeeper Keylor Navas, remains tough to penetrate, especially as they focus on sinking deep during high stakes matches.
Malik Tillman stands out as crucial in the US’ strategies as they aspire for victory.
Cattry stated:
“Tillman seems to be the first genuine benefactor of Pochettino’s arrival, deploying the player similarly to how it worked with Christian Eriksen or Dele Alli under him at Tottenham.”)
As the tournament progresses, the effectiveness of the B team attackers will be pivotal in the upcoming matches against Costa Rica and possibly beyond. Stay updated as these narratives unfold!
Top Stories
- USWNT Dominance: A strong win by Emma Hayes’ side, defeating Ireland 4-0.
- Ronaldo’s New Contract: Cristiano Ronaldo has extended his stay with Al-Nassr until 2027.
- Upcoming Matches: Notable fixtures approaching in various leagues and tournaments.
