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Monday, November 21
After missing the World Cup in 2018, the U.S. will play its first World Cup game in eight years on Monday in a Group B match against Wales. With a match upcoming against group favorite England on Friday, the Americans cannot afford an opening defeat if they hope to earn a spot in the knockout round. The U.S. enters the World Cup as the competition’s second-youngest team, with an average age of 25.2 years.
Against Wales, the U.S. will need to take a patient approach while facing a defensive-oriented squad that takes few chances. Wales is led by star winger Gareth Bale and Kieffer Moore, a rangy 6-foot-5 forward. Moore will pose a threat through the air on headers. Arsenal goalkeeper Matt Turner is expected to start in net for the U.S. Turner is familiar with the Wales lineup from his time in the English Premier League.
The #USMNT have one win in their last seven matches against teams going to the 2022 World Cup. They haven't scored in the other six: