FIFA Fines the US Soccer Federation After USMNT’s World Cup Qualifier Against El Salvador

FIFA is known for keeping a strict watch on its matches and everything that comes under its jurisdiction. The World Cup is coming around in Qatar, and this will be all the more evident in the competition. However, just as a preview of things to come, FIFA published the sanctions that were imposed on several nations for discipline-related incidents.

The document detailed several incidents that happened in the World Cup qualifier matches and Play-off matches with several countries. The USMNT were not spared either, as the US Soccer Federation was fined CHF 5000 (or $5100) for their match against El Salvador.

The fine was issued because of a pitch invasion. The document stated that the fine was officially issued for failure to uphold order and security at matches.

United States vs. El Salvador

The match in itself was an important one as the USMNT was fighting to get to the World Cup in Qatar. In their CONCACAF qualifier match against El Salvador, Fulham defender Antonee Robinson scored the only goal of the match in the second half.

It was also the first time that USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter started all three of Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Tyler Adams. While all of them had relatively subpar games, the trio’s performances could be vital going into the World Cup in Qatar.

The USMNT and their prospects in the World Cup

The USMNT are placed in a group with England and Iran. The fourth team of the group is yet to be decided as Ukraine hasn’t played their World Cup Play-off match against Scotland. The winner of the tie will then face Wales to decide who’ll get the final spot in the group.

Regardless of who gets it, the USMNT would be considered the favorites to finish second in the group behind England. USMNT captain Christian Pulisic will have a massive role to play in the tournament but is yet to find his form.

Moreover, manager Gregg Berhalter will have to wait and see which striker he would take to the World Cup, as the position is a spot of concern for the USMNT at the moment.

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