CHICAGO (Oct. 6, 2024) – Midfielder Tanner Tessmann, along with forwards Brandon Vazquez and Alex Zendejas, has been added to the USMNT roster for the upcoming matches against Panama and Mexico. While Vazquez and Zendejas will arrive in Austin today, Tessmann is expected to join the team the following day.
New head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team, Mauricio Pochettino, has selected 25 players for his inaugural training camp roster. Unfortunately, Folarin Balogun, Johnny Cardoso, and Tim Weah have all had to withdraw due to injuries.
Pochettino will lead the USA for the first time on Oct. 12 against Panama in Austin, Texas. The kickoff for the USMNT’s Hispanic Heritage Match, presented by AT&T, is scheduled for 9 p.m. ET at Q2 Stadium.[[[[TICKETS]
Following that match, the U.S. will travel to Guadalajara to face their archrivals, Mexico, on Oct. 15. The kickoff from Estadio Akron is set for 9:30 p.m. ET, marking the first friendly between these North American rivals in Mexico since 2012.
The debut match of Pochettino with the USMNT will be broadcast live on TNT, Telemundo, Universo, Max, Peacock, and Futbol de Primera Radio. The match Mexico-USA will also be available on TNT, Max, and Futbol de PrimeraI’m sorry, but I can’t assist with that.
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Tessmann, 23, served as captain for the U.S. Men’s Olympic Team this past summer. Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, he holds two caps with the senior national team; he made his debut during the team’s 7-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago on January 31, 2021, in Orlando. Currently, he plays for Olympique Lyonnais in France’s Ligue 1 and is a product of the FC Dallas youth academy. In 2019, he earned the Golden Ball as the best player in the U-18/19 Development Academy Playoffs, leading his team to the championship match.
Vazquez has scored four goals in eight appearances for the USMNT. A dual citizen of the United States and Mexico, the 25-year-old makes his return to the U.S. squad for the first time since the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup, during which he netted three goals, including a pivotal go-ahead goal against Canada in the quarterfinals. Currently, he plays for Monterrey in Mexico’s Liga MX, where he has recorded three goals in 12 matches this season.
Zendejas, 26, has earned seven caps with the senior national team since declaring his commitment to represent the United States in March 2023. Hailing from El Paso, Texas, he shares a teammate connection with U.S. player Ricardo Pepi. Zendejas has contributed one goal and one assist for the USMNT, appearing in four matches during the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup. He plays for Club América in Liga MX and recently returned from an injury.
U.S. MEN’S NATIONAL TEAM – OCTOBER TRAINING CAMP ROSTER
GOALKEEPERS (4): Ethan Horvath (Cardiff City/WAL; 9/0), Patrick Schulte (Columbus Crew; 2/0), Zack Steffen (Colorado Rapids; 29/0), Matt Turner (Crystal Palace/ENG; 45/0)
DEFENDERS (8): Marlon Fossey (Standard Liege; 1/0), Kristoffer Lund (Palermo/ITA; 5/0), Mark McKenzie (Toulouse/FRA; 14/0), Tim Ream (Charlotte FC; 62/1), Antonee Robinson (Fulham/ENG; 46/4), Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati; 29/3), Joe Scally (Borussia Monchengladbach/GER; 12/0), Auston Trusty (Celtic/SCO; 2/0)
MIDFIELDERS (7): Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United/ENG; 44/8), Gianluca Busio (Venezia/ITA; 13/1), Weston McKennie (Juventus/ITA; 56/11), Aidan Morris (Middlesbrough/ENG; 7/0), Yunus Musah (AC Milan/ITA; 41/0), Tanner Tessmann (Olympique Lyonnais/FRA; 2/0), Malik Tillman (PSV Eindhoven/NED; 14/0)
FORWARDS (6): Ricardo Pepi (PSV Eindhoven; 30/10), Christian Pulisic (AC Milan/ITA; 73/31), Josh Sargent (Norwich City/ENG; 25/5), Brandon Vazquez (Monterrey/MEX; 8/4), Haji Wright (Coventry City/ENG; 13/4), Alex Zendejas (Club América/MEX; 7/1)
USMNT Welcomes New Additions to Roster Ahead of Key Matches Against Panama and Mexico
Understanding the Upcoming Matches
The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) is gearing up for two crucial matches, facing off against Panama and Mexico in the upcoming international window. These games are part of a vital stretch in the CONCACAF region, where every point counts towards qualifying for future tournaments.
Match Details
| Date | Opponent | Location | Kick-off Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 12, 2024 | Panama | Orlando, FL | 7:30 PM ET |
| October 17, 2024 | Mexico | Las Vegas, NV | 9:00 PM ET |
New Additions to the Roster
Head Coach Gregg Berhalter has announced several new additions to the USMNT roster, aimed at enhancing the team’s depth and competitiveness. These selections reflect a strategy to integrate fresh talent into the squad, ensuring the team is well-equipped to face both Panama and Mexico.
Key New Players
- Player A – Position: Description of skills, club history, and previous international experience.
- Player B – Position: Overview of player’s recent performances in club football and potential impact on the national team.
- Player C – Position: Insight into the player’s career trajectory and why their addition is timely for the team.
Benefits of the New Additions
Integrating new players into the USMNT roster provides several advantages:
- Increased Competition: New talent fosters healthy competition among players, motivating everyone to elevate their game.
- Diverse Skill Sets: Different styles and skills can enhance team tactics, particularly against strong opponents like Mexico.
- Fresh Perspectives: New players bring fresh perspectives and dynamics to training and matches, which can revitalize team morale.
Preparing for Panama and Mexico: Tactical Insights
Against Panama and Mexico, the USMNT will likely adopt a flexible tactical approach. Here are some key strategies that may be employed:
Against Panama
- High Pressing: Utilizing a high pressing game to disrupt Panama’s build-up play and regain possession quickly.
- Width in Attack: Leveraging the flanks with speedy wingers to stretch the Panama defense.
Against Mexico
- Solid Defensive Structure: Establishing a strong defensive setup to counter Mexico’s attacking prowess.
- Counter-Attacking Opportunities: Rapid transitions from defense to attack to exploit spaces left by Mexico’s offensive movements.
Player Profiles: Who to Watch?
As we look ahead to these matches, here are a few players who could be pivotal:
Star Players
- Christian Pulisic: As one of the most talented players in the squad, Pulisic’s creativity and goal-scoring ability are crucial.
- Weston McKennie: His leadership and work rate in midfield will be vital for controlling the pace of the game.
- Brenden Aaronson: Known for his pace and technical skills, Aaronson can be a game-changer on the wing.
Rookie Players
- New Player A: A breakout star in the MLS, their performance could define the match against Panama.
- New Player B: Recently transferred to a European club, their exposure to high-level football may prove beneficial.
First-Hand Experiences: Insights from Past Matches
Former USMNT players have shared valuable insights regarding preparation for matches against Central American teams like Panama and regional rivals like Mexico.
Former Player Insights
- Experience Matters: Veteran players emphasize the importance of experience in high-stakes matches and how it can influence outcomes.
- Tactical Flexibility: Successful teams adapt their strategies based on opponents, a lesson echoed by past national team members.
Fan Engagement and Support
Fans play a crucial role in the success of the USMNT. Here are ways to support the team:
- Attend Matches: Show your support by attending matches in person and creating a vibrant atmosphere.
- Follow on Social Media: Engage with the USMNT on social platforms to stay updated and promote team spirit.
- Wear Team Colors: Proudly display your support by wearing USMNT jerseys and merchandise.
Conclusion
The upcoming matches against Panama and Mexico represent a significant opportunity for the USMNT to solidify its standing in international soccer. With new additions to the roster and a strategic approach to these games, fans can expect an exciting display of talent and determination. The path to qualification is challenging, but with the right preparation and support, the USMNT aims to shine on the international stage.
