Credit Lauren Stefl
By Juan Carlos Maygua
The Gold Cup continued with the fixtures in Group B. Martinique and the USMNT faced each other in a match where the National Team had the chance to qualify and secure first place in the group, as long as they managed to score more than 5 goals. Regardless of the outcome, Kansas City was up for an entertaining fixture.
Dike sends a message
The tournament gives the participating teams a chance to showcase their individual or collective talents. While it’s no secret that the USMNT is one of the strongest teams of the region, they are still finalizing details ahead of their choices for the World cup qualifying games later this year. But exactly what does this have to do with the game against Martinique right? I would say everything. First, the display in attack and then a few unexpected revelations in the defensive line. The man of the match, Orlando City’s Daryl Dike had an outstanding performance in the 6-1 victory. Dike quickly made a statement opening the scoreboard in the 11th minute of the game The movement on and off the ball was impressive, to say the least. His speed and physicality were key to help him score two goals in the match. It’s safe to say that his stay in the MLS could be short if he continues to display the same level during the tournament. Dike is now in a top position to fight for a spot in the attacking line alongside Pulisic and Reyna. However, GiasyZardes is one of Berhalter’s most trusted players and alsodelivered against Martinique. The fight for a spot in the attacking line is going to be interesting and can create a good problem for Berhalter in the near future.
I close out with a special mention for the young talent James Sands. The defender played his first full game with the National team against Martinique. One could say that the rival didn’tcreate dangerous chances against the defensive line, but that’s not the case. Sands displayed a level of confidence that you rarely see from a player his age. The NYCFC defender played as if he was playing back in New York, definitely a good sign for both club and country. A player for the future with a lot of potentials yet to be developed, as I said on Twitter, Keep an eye on him going forward.