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Sam Borden
Multiple Authors
IRVINE, Calif. – In the wake of a heated encounter with Paraguay that nearly escalated to violence, the U.S. men’s national team is preparing for another intense faceoff in their World Cup opener this Friday. The American squad is also focusing on improving their ability to play the victim in such situations.
Traditionally, the U.S. has struggled with the “dark arts” of soccer—traits like exaggerating contact, embellishing fouls, and influencing the referee—which are especially crucial during high-stakes matches.
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“I think that’s definitely an area where we can improve,” midfielder Cristian Roldan shared with reporters on Tuesday. “Sometimes, our honesty can be more of a liability than an asset.”
“We need to be a bit more strategic in how we manage the game, including how we handle fouls and taking a moment longer on the ground. Learning these tactics from other nations, especially Paraguay, would benefit us greatly.”
Referee Danny Makkelie, who will officiate Friday’s game, is known for his lenient style, yet the aggressive nature displayed in their last friendly cannot be overlooked.
A scuffle erupted in stoppage time when Alex Freeman and Gustavo Gómez jostled for position during a throw-in, leading players from both sides to swarm the area.
Miles Robinson found himself briefly in a headlock; Roldan, Sebastian Berhalter, and Tim Ream intervened, while U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino stumbled and fell while rushing to the scene. Paraguay’s Omar Alderete was shown a red card due to his involvement in the altercation.
The U.S. won that match 2-1, and Ream, who will lead the U.S. team in the upcoming World Cup, reflected on the match’s significance for team dynamics.
“The Paraguay game was particularly intense,” he noted on Monday. “It felt like it carried more weight, and in hindsight, it served as an ideal test for us at that stage.”
As the players gear up for the rematch, they recognize that strategy and execution will play pivotal roles in determining the outcome against Paraguay. Nevertheless, effectively managing moments that involve the referee may ultimately make a significant difference.
“It’s essential for us to remain smart and not get caught up in their games,” Roldan emphasized. “[Managing the game effectively] is of utmost importance for us.”