The USA waited eight years to be back in the World Cup and starts their 2022 campaign against Wales in a Group B contest.
The USMNT were left to watch the 2018 World Cup at home after an upset loss in qualifiers to Trinidad and Tobago. However, the Stars and Stripes battled their way to one of the three automatic spots in this year’s CONCACAF Nations League.
Many consider this team to be the USA’s “Golden Generation.” When looking at the European pedigree and youth on America’s side, it’s not a bad shout.
Of the starting 11 facing Wales, five currently play in the English Premier League, two play in the Italian Serie A, and two play in the German Bundesliga and Spanish La Liga respectively. The starters have an average age of 24 years and 300 days.
Regardless of age, the Dragons will be keen to perform for their fans. After all, they haven’t seen their country in this competition since 1958.
This Wales side are a team with knockout stage history, however, as Gareth Bale led them to the Euro 2020 Round of 16.
For tonight, Wales bring ten of their starting 11 from Europe’s top five leagues, with an average age of 27 years and 33 days.
Again, the Welsh will look to the former Real Madrid winger for moments of inspiration. On the other side of the pitch, the Americans will rely on Pulisic in much the same way.
