1990s USMNT Had ‘More Character’ Than the Current Squad, Believes Pundit

The United States men’s national team has witnessed substantial transformations through the decades. The Stars and Stripes’ squad from each era had its own unique element and left a distinct imprint on the soccer world. But in a surprise revelation, a famous pundit claims that the USMNT of the 1990s had more ‘fiber’ and a distinct character. These qualities outperformed the traits of the present group. 

In the latest episode of “Kickin’ It,” courtesy of CBS Sports Golazo, host Kate Abdo invited Argentinian-American commentator Andrés Cantor, alongside former USMNT stars Clint Dempsey, Charlie Davies, and Mo Edu. Interestingly, as the lengthy interview began, Abdo urged Cantor to recount his memories of calling games that Clint, Charlie, and Mo all played. While insisting he doesn’t like to compare distinct soccer eras, Cantor heaped praise on the MNT’s 1990s team.

Pundit claims the 1990s USMNT possessed more character than the current team

Andrés Cantor claimed it was ‘totally different’ when Dempsey, Davies, and Mo Edu played than it is now, acknowledging this side as ‘more reachable.’ Interestingly, Abdo asked Cantor if he would pitch today’s national team against the 90s group. To which he replied, “No. I think you guys had more character. You had more fibre to the US National team if that means anything. It’s like you felt you were representing your country not that the kids now don’t, but you mostly played home and then went abroad like many of the players now, but still, I felt they had something different,” he said. It is unquestionably a substantial declaration from the venerated expert. 

Additionally, Cantor asked Dempsey to share his further thoughts on the feeling of representing the national team. The former striker claimed that it was honorable to play for the USA and revealed he played for the kids who didn’t make it from his area. The CBS pundit also acknowledged that as he grew older, his zeal to stand up for his nation in prestigious contests also grew. It was a feeling that resonated with his fellow teammates as well. Yet, the current USMNT squad worries Cantor!

READ MORE: USMNT 2024 Copa America: Group C, Opponents, Schedule, Fixtures, Venue

Andrés Cantor is worried about the national team!

The discussion came to a junction where the former MNT stars started comparing the 90s group with the current team. While Dempsey and Mo Edu claimed that the Yanks had much to improve until the 2026 World Cup, Cantor acknowledged that the team has a lot of talent. However, the pundit expressed his concern, saying, “The only thing that worries me at this stage is knowing that they don’t have to play the World Cup qualifying.”

Cantor believes that while participating in the 2024 Copa America is an excellent test for Greg Berhalter’s side, it still won’t be enough. With the international calendar filled, the team won’t be able to play friendlies of their choice. Hence, the commentator urged the USMNT to play ‘to their maximum level’ to be successful in the 2026 World Cup. 

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