Saudi Arabia Clashes with USMNT: Match Preview, Bold Predictions and Expected Starting Lineups

The United States men's national soccer team advances their Gold Cup campaign with a match against Saudi Arabia this Thursday.

Following two disappointing international friendly defeats to Turkey and Switzerland, the USMNT recovered with an impressive display against Trinidad and Tobago over the weekend. This strong showing was crucial after their lackluster performance against the Swiss team.

Saudi Arabia, similar to the USMNT, secured victory in their opening match by beating Haiti. This encounter should decide which team leads the group. The winner could influence potential knockout round matchups and positioning.

Here's Sports Illustrated's comprehensive preview of Saudi Arabia vs. USMNT.

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USMNT vs. Saudi Arabia head-to-head record (all-time)

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USMNT Team News

Pochettino should consider fielding a lineup similar to the one that triumphed over Trinidad and Tobago. At the very least, maintaining the team's core structure would be beneficial. Should Tyler Adams be healthy and available, he deserves midfield consideration at some stage. He brings stability and confidence while distributing the ball from deeper positions as one of the experienced players in camp.

The goalkeeper position remains uncertain, though Freese's clean sheet performance suggests he should get the nod. Nevertheless, Matt Turner is overdue for a tournament start. However, Pochettino wants to evaluate Freese further following Zack Steffen's injury setback.

USMNT Predicted Lineup vs. Saudi Arabia

USMNT predicted lineup vs. Saudi Arabia (4-2-3-1): Freese; Freeman, Ream, McKenzie, Arfsten; Cardoso, De la Torre; Luna, Tillman, McGlynn; Agyemang

Saudi Arabia Team News

Hervé Renard earned recognition for Saudi Arabia's World Cup 2022 displays and has returned to lead the Arabian Falcons following Roberto Mancini's difficulties. Captain Hassan Kadesh is anticipated to miss significant time after sustaining a hamstring problem against Haiti.

Saudi Arabia Predicted Lineup

Saudi Arabia predicted lineup vs. USMNT (4-2-3-1): Alaqidi; Abdulhamid, Al Amri, Madu, Al-Boushail; Al-Hassan, Al-Ghamdi; Al-Hammami, Aljohani, Al Sahafi; Al-Shehri

Saudi Arabia vs. USMNT Score Prediction

The USMNT should feel rejuvenated after beating Trinidad and Tobago, ending their four-match losing run, and Pochettino needs to emphasize that victory here would likely secure their position as group leaders. Saudi Arabia presents a significantly tougher test than Trinidad and Tobago, but maintaining squad consistency should provide the USMNT with a solid foundation for success.

Malik Tillman and Diego Luna remain key figures driving Pochettino's squad toward victory.

Prediction: Saudi Arabia 1–2 USMNT