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Breaking down the first game for the USA in the 2022 World Cup. Predicting what will happen between Wales and USA in Group B of the World Cup.
The World Cup is finally here. A few months later than normal but here nonetheless. The team at RotoBaller has you covered for all your World Cup needs. We'll bring you DFS articles, game previews, and betting picks throughout the competition.
Our first match preview will be between the United States of America and Wales, both coming from Group B. This will be the first meeting between these two nations at the World Cup. Kickoff between the Americans and Welsh takes place on Monday, November 21st at 2 PM EST. Who will win between USA and Wales?
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USA Team Breakdown
After failing to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, the USA enters the tournament with the second-youngest squad among the 32 teams who qualified. Leeds United center mid Tyler Adams was named USA's captain, making him the youngest captain (23) at the World Cup. The United States of America lines up in a 4-3-3 formation.
Strengths: You're likely surprised I've made it thus far without mentioning Christian Pulisic. Captain America leads the attack as USA's leading scorer with 21 goals in 52 caps. The speedy playmaker will demand the defense's attention and serve as USA's focal point in transition. Juventus's Weston McKennie joins Tyler Adams in the central midfield, making a formidable duo to control the pace of play. USA's unit of midfielders is their strong suit, giving them the chance to compete with any team in this tournament.
Weaknesses:
The United States lacks an imposing forward and will be limited offensively. Timothy Weah, Jesús Ferreira, and Josh Sargent are America's best options to start up top. The three combine for 15 goals while representing their country. The backline for the USA is mediocre at best. Walker Zimmerman and Cameron Carter-Vickers are the forefront candidates to start as the center backs. A world-class attack will raise troubles for the USA.
Wales Team Breakdown
Wales is heading to their second World Cup in program history, with their first appearance occurring in 1958. The Welsh made a name for themselves when they finished third in the Euro 2016 tournament. They remain ranked among the top-20 nations in the world by FIFA. Wales is expected to line up in a 3-4-3 formation.
Strengths: At 33-years-old, Gareth Bale has lost a step from what he once was with Real Madrid and Tottenham. Now on LAFC, Bale remains a tantalizing playmaker capable of ripping through a defense. Formerly on Arsenal, 31-year-old Aaron Ramsey remains one of the best offensive-minded center midfielders in the world. The duo has combined for 60 goals while representing Wales, 28 more than the rest of the squad combined.
Weaknesses: Wales is blatantly thin in depth. Joe Allen has been ruled out for World Cup with an injury, pushing the Welsh thinner in their midfield. The amount Wales relies on moments of greatness from Bale and Ramsey is unsustainable. If an injury was to occur to either of them, Wales would become a dysfunctional mess. The lack of variety in the Welsh attack will make for a predictable game plan.
USA vs Wales Preview
Plenty is at stake for both teams here. The USA missed the last World Cup and is hosting the next. They need to make a statement in their first game under the spotlight to be taken seriously worldwide. Wales hasn't played in a World Cup in over sixty years. They are as motivated as any unit to defy tournament odds once again.
Every game in group play is equally as important as the last. A loss here for either squad will tank their chances of making it to the knockout stage. The winner is in control of their own destiny and is in a great position to place top-two and advance.
Christian Pulisic and Gareth Bale are the best talents on the field and will create plenty of opportunities for their teams. Wales will beat the USA on the width of the pitch but their three-back defensive line will be stressed. The key to this game is who wins the midfield matchup. Aaron Ramsey is the best midfielder in the match, but America's trio will give him plenty of issues. Buckle up for this one.
Score prediction: USA 2 - 1 Wales
