‘Is Not What America Stands for!’- NBA Analyst Stephen A. Smith Rips Into the US Soccer Team Before Massive Match at FIFA World Cup 22

The US Men’s National Team started their FIFA World Cup campaign with a disappointing draw. They failed to hold onto their 1-0 lead, giving away an easy penalty in the 81st minute of the game. Gareth Bale converted from the resulting spot kick to salvage a draw for Wales.

However, the way they played and settled for a draw has drawn criticism. NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith has ripped into the team for their display in the World Cup opener, and he didn’t hold back and asked the team to play for the win.

What did Stephen A. Smith say?

While speaking to ESPN, Smith said, “I don’t know about that what you critique. What I Will say is this. You are the United States of America. And in the world cup, as it says, UEFA opponents without a victory 0-5-5. That is not what America stands for. Not that level of alarming mediocrity. Very disturbed by that. When you say U.S.A., I expect wins attached to it. When I Don’t see wins, I have a problem.”

He was clearly disappointed with the attitude of the team, and he, along with Chris Russo, went on a rampage. After failing to qualify for the 2018 edition, expectations are high for the US Soccer Team, as the fans are expecting them to go beyond the group stage. 

What’s next for USMNT?

USMNT will take on England today in a tricky fixture. England had a thumping victory in their opening game when they beat Iran 6-2. It’s clear that USMNT will have to go all out against England for an outright win, and they will have to keep an eye on Wales – Iran fixture too. 

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Goal difference will play a crucial role, and games against Iran for USMNT and Wales will be the deciding factor if both fail to win against England. If goal differences for both USMNT and Wales are the same, the team with the more group-stage goals will qualify.

USMNT will have to score goals and stop high-flying England from scoring against them. The team will be looking not to repeat the mistakes committed in the second half against Wales. That second-half performance has put them in a critical position with their chances of progressing.

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With the World Cup knockout stage as the main target, USMNT will be determined to prove themselves. The game against a mighty opponent like England will be the perfect stage to prove the mettle of the USMNT. 

Do you believe USMNT can surpass the English team? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.