The USA Vs Belgium round-of-16 matchup tonight is one of the most highly anticipated soccer games in American history. TV records will be broken as fans rush to their screens to watch the USMNT take on a talented Belgium squad with the hopes of advancing once again. These three players need to step up to make those hopes turn to reality on Monday night.
Folarin Balogun has been one of the most talked-about players in all of World Cup competition this past week. He received a red card in the previous round, originally making him ineligible to play against Belgium. Now, FIFA has suspended the red card for up to a year. About 24 hours before the game begins, he is able to play.
Balogun has been one of the most electric players throughout the tournament for Team USA. He has scored a team-high three goals in the tournament, and has had multiple called off due to a close offside call. If they are going to beat Belgium, he may have to find the back of the net.
Chris Richards will be key to shutting down the attack of Belgium. The defensive star has been the best on the squad through four games, with no signs of slowing down. Another classic Richards’ performance on Monday night could lead the USA to a round-of-16 victory.
Christian Pulisic has been preparing for this moment his entire life. The poster boy for soccer in the United States has a chance to show why he’s on all the commercials and advertisements.
Pulisic must seize the moment tonight. This is the biggest opportunity of his career, and a big performance would boost him to astronomical heights amongst American fans. He has the skill to impact the game as no other player can. Now he must show it.
Team USA is currently the favorite to win this contest against Belgium, but if these three players don’t really have big impacts on the game, that wouldn’t matter. These are players USMNT fans need to keep an eye on when matching tonight. Could there be a miracle brewing?
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