Group USA males's soccer face New Zealand at 2024 Paris Olympics: Might Griffin Yow come again into the lineup?

The Olympic journey will proceed for the US U-23s in a vital match in opposition to New Zealand on Saturday. After losing 3-0 to France whereas New Zealand triumphed over Guinea, that is now a win or doubtlessly go dwelling match for Marko Mitrovic’s group. They did put collectively 60 minutes of fine soccer in opposition to the host nation, however that solely issues a lot should you concede three targets after the sixtieth minute of play. Can they flip issues round within the second match of the group stage?

Here is what to know:

Is Griffin Yow incoming?

In opposition to France, the US did create possibilities however their passes excessive or within the remaining third left a lot to be desired. From Paxten Aaronson stepping into house to Djordie Mihailovic rattling a shot off the highest of the bar, the probabilities for a objective had been there. When trying on the lineup earlier than the sport, one of many solely surprises was that Griffin Yow wasn’t within the entrance three. Whereas it did not find yourself counting, he had a tidy end to place the ball behind the web after approaching within the second half that would pressure Mitrovic into an opportunity to face New Zealand.

Yow is somebody who performed his manner onto this Olympic roster by displaying up each for Weterlo and in friendlies with the U-23s so giving him an opportunity to indicate that he can proceed that on the Olympics is one thing that is sensible. Even when it does not find yourself working, going again to what helped get the US right here is one thing that is known as for after disappointing within the opening match of the Olympics.

Needing extra from the striker

Striker is a troublesome place for the U.S. U-23s and it confirmed in opposition to France as Duncan McGuire solely touched the ball thrice in France’s field. Solely taking one shot he was a non-factor within the match whereas the assault struggled. There have been choices resembling placing Aaronson as a false 9 however when dealing with prime groups, having a acknowledged striker in assault is vital in worldwide tournaments.

McGuire has carried out effectively for Orlando Metropolis SC however on the subject of the nationwide group it hasn’t been the identical. Ricardo Pepi scored a hat trick with PSV throughout preseason prep and if he was on this squad, the assault might have a special ceiling however since he is not Mitrovic wants the striker that he does must put the ball behind the web in opposition to New Zealand.

Lose and it may very well be over

Strain makes diamonds and one of many essential issues of a event like that is enjoying in significant video games. Nicely, it solely took one match so as to add stress to the second. If the US loses and France picks up some extent, it would finish their likelihood for a shot on the knockout spherical whereas a draw will take issues out of their management.

Taking part in in video games like this are once you see who can really maintain up beneath stress versus who might solely be a depth participant within the squad so when determining who of the U-23s may have an opportunity with the senior aspect, video games like this one in opposition to New Zealand are what’s going to decide that. After all, a poor efficiency right here will not sink anybody however it will likely be a setback.

Easy methods to watch and odds

• Date: Saturday, July 27 | Time: 1 p.m. ET
• Location: Orange Velodrome — Marseille, France
• TV: USA  | Dwell stream: Fubo (Try for free)
• Odds: New Zealand +340; Draw +265; United States -165