Football

Team USA men's soccer face New Zealand at 2024 Paris Olympics: Could Griffin Yow come back into the lineup?

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57s ago

Jul 27, 2024 / 2820 Views

The Olympic journey will continue for the United States U-23s in a critical match against New Zealand on Saturday. After losing 3-0 to France while New Zealand triumphed over Guinea, this is now a win or potentially go home match for Marko Mitrovic's team. They did put together 60 minutes of good soccer against the host nation, but that only matters so much if you concede three goals after the 60th minute of play. Can they turn things around in the second match of the group stage?

Here's what to know:

Is Griffin Yow incoming?

Against France, the United States did create chances but their passes over the top or in the final third left much to be desired. From Paxten Aaronson getting into space to Djordie Mihailovic rattling a shot off the top of the bar, the chances for a goal were there. When looking at the lineup before the Game, one of the only surprises was that Griffin Yow wasn't in the front three. While it didn't end up counting, he had a tidy finish to put the ball in the back of the net after coming on in the second half that could force Mitrovic into a chance to face New Zealand.

Yow is someone who played his way onto this Olympic roster by showing up both for Weterlo and in friendlies with the U-23s so giving him a chance to show that he can continue that at the Olympics is something that makes sense. Even if it doesn't end up working, going back to what helped get the United States here is something that's called for after disappointing in the opening match of the Olympics.

Needing more from the striker

Striker is a difficult position for the U.S. U-23s and it showed against France as Duncan McGuire only touched the ball three times in France's box. Only taking one shot he was a non-factor in the match while the attack struggled. There were options such as putting Aaronson as a false nine but when facing top teams, having a recognized striker in attack is key in international tournaments.

McGuire has performed well for Orlando City SC but when it comes to the national team it hasn't been the same. Ricardo Pepi scored a hat trick with PSV during preseason prep and if he was on this squad, the attack may have a different ceiling but since he isn't Mitrovic needs the striker that he does have to put the ball in the back of the net against New Zealand.

Lose and it could be over

Pressure makes diamonds and one of the important things of a tournament like this is playing in meaningful Games. Well, it only took one match to add pressure to the second. If the United States loses and France picks up a point, it will end their chance for a shot at the knockout round while a draw will take things out of their control.

Playing in Games like this are when you see who can truly hold up under pressure versus who may only be a depth player in the squad so when figuring out who of the U-23s will have a chance with the senior side, Games like this one against New Zealand are what will determine that. Of course, a poor performance here won't sink anyone but it will be a setback.