The Americans would have to play two World Cup qualifiers in 72 hours at altitude in two countries — demands that required both enhanced preparation and an unusual number of starters. “I was close to nine yesterday, but fell back to seven,” Arena said after a 1-1 draw with Mexico on Sunday. We certainly benefited from the things we did over the last two weeks.”At the start of camp — Arena’s first with an almost full-strength roster — the team worked on shape and tactics for both matches. Defender Omar Gonzalez and midfielder Paul Arriola are employed by Mexican league clubs — Pachuca and Tijuana, respectively — that visit Mexico City during the season. And against Mexico, Arena explained, the U.S. goalkeeper would find himself clearing the ball and taking goal kicks more often than, say, against Trinidad and Tobago.

Source: Washington Post June 12, 2017 07:41 UTC