After an eventful first round of matches, the Earthquakes’ players at Copa America Centenario continue play this week with laser focus.
Forward Chris Wondolowski – United States
USA vs. Costa Rica – Soldier Field, Chicago, IL
Tuesday, June 7 – 5:00 p.m. PT
FOX Sports 1
Group A
COLOMBIA – 3 (+2)
COSTA RICA – 1 (0)
PARAGUAY – 1 (0)
USA – 0 (-2)
The U.S. National Team was defeated 2-0 by Group A-favorite Colombia on Friday night at nearby Levi’s Stadium. The loss, although disappointing, was not entirely unexpected as Colombia currently holds a top-five world ranking according to FIFA.
The good news for U.S. Soccer is that the group’s other match, Costa Rica vs. Paraguay, finished in a scoreless draw, opening the door for the Americans to control their own destiny. A win over Costa Rica Tuesday night could potentially leave them needing nothing more than a draw over Paraguay on Saturday.
Costa Rica isn’t to be taken lightly despite their poor result against a ‘weaker’ Paraguay side last week. The team is led by 23-year-old Arsenal midfielder Joel Campbell and is capable of defeating any opponent on any given day. However, their backline will be a bit lighter for this match as Vancouver Whitecaps FC defender Kendall Waston is facing suspension following a stoppage-time red card.
Midfielders Anibal Godoy and Alberto Quintero – Panama
Panama vs. Argentina – Soldier Field, Chicago, IL
Friday, June 10 – 6:30 p.m. PT
FOX
Group D
ARGENTINA – 3 (+1)
PANAMA – 3 (+1)
BOLIVIA – 0 (-1)
CHILE – 0 (-1)
After a much-needed 2-1 win over Bolivia, Panama find themselves in relatively good position to advance from Group D despite overwhelming odds prior to the start of the tournament. Excellent performances by Quakes midfielders Alberto Quintero, who tallied an assist, and Anibal Godoy have Panama beaming at the right time.
Argentina’s players need little introduction regardless of where in the world they play. Barcelona playmaker Lionel Messi is widely considered the best player in the world and is flanked by Gonzalo Higuain (Napoli), Sergio Aguero (Manchester City), Angel Di Maria (Paris Saint-Germain), Erik Lamela (Tottenham), Ever Banega (Sevilla) and Marcos Rojo (Manchester United), among others.
