An odd one this. In preparation for the Champions Cup, Arena has released from camp the players from the LA Galaxy and the New England Revolution. Problem is, that's half our starting lineup from the last two games, and the really good half at that. So we're essentially employing a B-minus, C+ team against the Chapines.
And maybe that's for the best. Guatemala was a big disappointment in the final round of World Cup qualifying, but they're bringing an experienced squad (including star Carlos Ruiz, Galaxy hero/reject Pando Ramirez and ex-MLS journeyman Martin Machon). After the performances against Norway and Japan, this match seems destined to be a letdown.
The most interesting aspect of the US team to watch will be the strikers. Eddie Johnson, Josh Wolff and Brian Ching's performances for the US have not really been stellar over the last few months, and all three will want to make a statement to Arena that they belong on this team. I suspect you'll see Wolff and Johnson start the game and Ching, who I imagine is fifth on the US depth chart at forward, to get some second half time.
Hmm, the technical director of Guatemala is one Marlon Ivan Leon. Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't this the same Marlon Ivan Leon who tried to cripple the entire US squad during a qualifier at RFK 8 years ago? Maybe Marcelo Balboa can whack him during the halftime break.
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