The USMNT is set to take the field again on November 18, 2024, when they face Jamaica in the second leg of the Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal at CITY PARK in St. Louis, Missouri. After taking a 1-0 lead from their hard-earned victory in Kingston, the Americans are now a step closer to earning places in the finals of the Concacaf Nations League 2025 and Gold Cup 2025, two extremely important competitions on the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Will Mauricio Pochettino’s squad maintain their advantage, or can the Reggae Boyz ignite a comeback?

The stakes are as high for both. For America, the match is creating momentum and waves under Pochettino while assuring their dominance in the region. For Jamaica, it’s going to be a chance to break the terrible streak against their North American rivals.

The Americans will count on their impressive home record in this competition. CITY PARK has been very favorable to the USMNT, with two shutout victories already. With Pochettino’s team feeling confident after their recent win in Jamaica, the backing from the St. Louis crowd could play a crucial role in leading the Yanks to victory. However, injuries to important players like Johnny Cardoso and the absence of stars such as Tyler Adams and Gio Reyna mean the Americans have to play carefully and cannot give up their lead.

For Pepi, this is another superb opportunity to shine. The 21-year-old has netted three goals against Jamaica and is solidifying his role as one of the team’s key scorers. Additionally, Matt Turner’s impressive penalty saves will bolster the U.S. defense as they head into this crucial matchup.

Expected starting lineups and key changes

USMNT possible starting XI:

Goalkeeper: Matt Turner

Defenders: Joe Scally, Miles Robinson, Mark McKenzie, Antonee Robinson

Midfielders: Malik Tillman, Gianluca Busio, Weston McKennie

Forwards: Timothy Weah, Christian Pulisic, Ricardo Pepi

Injuries have led to some changes in the USMNT lineup. Johnny Cardoso, who picked up a hamstring injury in the first leg, will be out, along with Aidan Morris, who is dealing with a knee problem. On a positive note, Timothy Weah returns from suspension, providing a valuable attacking option. Pepi, the standout player from the first leg, is expected to lead the attack, with support from Pulisic, who recently reached his 75th cap.

Jamaica’s possible starting XI:

Goalkeeper: Andre Blake

Defender: Amari’i Bell, Damion Lowe, Adrian Mariappa, Javain Brown

Midfielders: Leon Bailey, Demarai Gray, Jon Russell, Shamar Nicholson

Forward: Corey Burke

Jamaica is also facing challenges, particularly with Mason Holgate suspended after receiving a red card in the first leg, which adds to their defensive problems. With Bobby Decordova-Reid and Michail Antonio also out, McClaren has few choices in attack. However, Demarai Gray and Leon Bailey will look to exploit any vulnerabilities in the U.S. defense using their pace and creativity.

Head-to-Head stats

Jamaica is one of the teams the U.S.A. maintains a solid record against with 24 wins, 3 losses, and 10 draws in their last 37 encounters. In the first leg of the Concacaf Nations League, the U.S. defeated them 1-0, courtesy of a wonderful goal from Ricardo Pepi. However, Jamaica has struggled to win on American soil historically, with their last competitive win coming in 2015 during the Gold Cup. Jamaica though, did defeat the Yanks 1-0 during a friendly at Audi Field in 2019, and they were the last Caribbean side to defeat them on US soil. Under Coach Steve McClaren, the Reggae Boyz have showcased courage and the will to win. They had enough chances in the first leg despite being unable to snap them at the target. Given this, this second leg promises yet another exciting contest between two closely matched teams.

Where to watch in the USA and other countries

The second leg is set to begin at 8 p.m. ET on November 18, 2024, at CITY PARK in St. Louis. Fans in the USA can tune in live on TNT, truTV, Universo, and through streaming services like Max, Peacock, and Sling.

International audiences can stream the game via platforms such as FIFA+ and Concacaf Go, depending on what’s available in their region.