Soccer – International Friendly – Saudi Arabia vs USA – Estadio Nueva Condomina, Murcia, Spain – September 27, 2022 USA’s Sergino Dest works with Saudi Arabia’s Nawaf Al Abid REUTERS/Pablo Morano
The United States were held to a 0-0 draw by Saudi Arabia in Murcia, Spain on Tuesday, September 27, as they again looked to create opportunities in their final friendly before the World Cup.
The pressure was on for the USA after Japan lost 2-0 in the semi-finals when they failed to convert and left fans worried about the final game in Qatar when they failed to break. to Saudi Arabia.
Two goals saved Matt Turner in the first minute from Sultan Al Ghannam and Haitham Asiri’s 70th minute effort.
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But the performance left some reason for optimism as the Americans prepare to return to the World Cup stage four years after failing to qualify. This may interest you : The United States is debating America’s fighter jets for Ukraine.
With just two shots on goal, the Americans’ lack of chances created few chances and midfielder Giovanni Reyna’s exit in the 30th minute as a precautionary measure was a serious injury.
Mohammed Al-Rubaie headed Weston McKennie’s shot wide in the ninth minute while striker Jesus Ferreira squandered a great chance to shoot the ball straight at Saudi Arabia.
US coach Gregg Berhalter said “I can’t fault the effort but we need to continue to improve.” “It’s a time of fear – people are worried about being on the list or not… The confidence is not there but we will get there.”
The United States will compete in Group B with England, Iran and Wales in the tournament that will begin on November 20. Berhalter is expected to announce his final World Cup squad on November 9.
Saudi Arabia will face Argentina, Mexico and Poland in Group C in Qatar.
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Amy Tennery reports in New York; Edited by Toby Davis and Ken Ferris
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