A win Friday draws USMNT level with Mexico in 2022 World Cup qualifying

The United States men’s national soccer team returns to 2022 World Cup qualifying action on Friday with an opportunity to draw level with Mexico atop the final-round standings.

They only have to go through Mexico to get there.

The Stars & Stripes are trying to erase the failure of missing out on the 2018 World Cup with a youthful, revamped roster. But inconsistencies have continued nagging the Americans despite being one of the favorites to breeze through into the World Cup Finals of 32 teams from around the globe.

After opening draws to El Salvador and Canada, the U.S. racked up two straight wins over Honduras and Jamaica before an upset loss to Panama on Oct. 10.

Three days later, they rebounded to defeat Costa Rica 2-1, giving them 11 points in six matches. That’s three points behind Mexico, who are unbeaten through their first six games of the final round of World Cup qualifying.

Friday’s clash with Mexico comes on home soil as TQL Stadium in Cincinnati will host the gargantuan North American matchup between two of its traditional powerhouses.

“Our focus remains on a next game up mentality. After this window we’ll be more than halfway through the Octagonal, so we have a chance to position ourselves well heading into next year,” USMNT manager Gregg Berhalter said in a release. “When it comes to USA-Mexico, I’m excited for our players because it isn’t just a game – it’s an event. This is the best of World Cup Qualifying, and our group is ready for the challenge.”

His roster for the November qualifiers are as diverse as ever with Americans continuing to stake their claim in some of the top leagues in the world:

USMNT November World Cup Qualifying Roster