The United States and Mexico have kicked off in their massive World Cup qualifier from Columbus, and the biggest storyline early is how El Tri will look early with a new-look lineup, under a new manager. Luis Fernando Tena was named interim manager on Saturday, replacing the departed 'Chepo' Jose Manuel de la Torre. He's re-instated Andres Guardado and Jesus Zavala, but has kept a team that looks mostly the same to the one that lost to Honduras.
USA vs. Mexico: Match underway
On paper, the teams look like they’re playing matching 4-2-3-1 formations with fast, goal-poaching forwards and attacking midfielders that like to cut inside. Don’t be shocked to see Mexico attack in more of a 4-3-3 formation, however. Look to see if Jesus Zavala is deep as a lone holder when Mexico have the ball.
For the U.S., keep an eye on the right flank. Fabian Johnson -- normally a left midfielder or left back -- is deputizing there. The U.S. has protected him on the right wing with Alejandro Bedoya, who plays right wingback in a 3-5-2 for Nantes in France. They'll have their hands full with Guardado.
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