Following a 2-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago, Bruce Arena has decided to change the United States men’s national team’s lineup considerably for the big showdown with Mexico. He hinted at big changes on Sunday and he’s followed through, changing formations and goalkeepers as well.
USA vs. Mexico lineups: USMNT makes huge changes
Bruce Arena has gone for a big surprise for the World Cup qualifier against El Tri.
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Brad Guzan starting over Tim Howard is sure to raise some eyebrows, as is a switch to a back three. The Americans were outplayed using a three-man back line in their first matchup against Mexico, and Jürgen Klinsmann was heavily criticized for it. Paul Arriola will get his first competitive start for the Americans, while 35-year-old DaMarcus Beasley, who had previously retired from international football, gets the nod on the left.
El Tri also makes some changes, though most of their team that beat Honduras sticks around. Chicharito is back in the lineup, replacing Raúl Jimenez up top. Juan Carlos Osorio has opted for a more defensive back line than in previous international breaks, with no attacking fullbacks getting on the pitch.
United States starting lineup (3-4-2-1): Brad Guzan; Tim Ream, Omar Gonzalez, Geoff Cameron; DaMarcus Beasley, Michael Bradley, Kellyn Acosta, DeAndre Yedlin; Christian Pulisic, Paul Arriola; Bobby Wood
Mexico starting lineup (4-2-3-1): Guillermo Ochoa; Oswaldo Alanis, Hector Moreno, Diego Reyes, Carlos Salcedo; Jonathan dos Santos, Hector Herrera; Hirving Lozano, Marco Fabián, Carlos Vela; Javier Hernandez
Kickoff is just after 8:30 p.m. ET from Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. You can catch the game on FS1 or Univision Deportes.
