Can the USMNT Qualify for the World Cup?

Latest News

The 2022 FIFA Men’s World Cup qualifiers are in full swing, even though it officially does not begin until late November. As someone who exclusively watches women’s soccer, it constantly amazes me how different men’s and women’s soccer are. They are truly two completely different games. 

The US Men’s National Soccer Team has enjoyed far less success than the US Women’s National Soccer Team, but as of late, the USMNT has been improving. The latest World Cup predictions are in, and they have a great mathematical chance of qualifying for the biggest sporting event in the world this year.

Getting Back on Track

This time around, the US Men’s team hopes to redeem themselves after disappointingly missing out on the 2018 FIFA Men’s World Cup after losing to Trinidad and Tobago 2-1, after needing only a tie to secure a World Cup spot. This was the first time the US Men’s team had missed out on the World Cup since 1986, in 32 years. 

The USMNT is currently 6-2-3 with 21 qualifying points. They are four points behind the Canadian Men’s National Team (7-0-4, 25 points.) 

This year, the USMNT are only a few good wins away from scoring a spot in the World Cup. Their 3-0 win over Honduras two weeks ago, on February 2, put the USMNT in a solid position going into these March World Cup qualifying matches. Three points in three games and/or a tie against Mexico City and a win over Panama would almost certainly be the deciding factor.

Set Up for Success

The USMNT is in a good position right now, and they are not in any danger of failing to qualify for the World Cup. However, it is not time for celebration just yet. Nothing is set in stone yet. Even though things look pretty good for the US Men’s National Team right now, there are a couple of things that could potentially disadvantage them going into these March qualifying matches.

The USMNT has been struggling with injuries as of late. Their best-attacking midfielder, Gio Reyna, has not been able to play since the USMNT’s first World Cup qualifying match on September 3. Their performance since his injury has been criticized for being lethargic and sloppy in the attacking third of the field.

Other notable injuries include Borussia Dortmund, who injured his right hamstring in a game against El Salvador in his very first World Cup qualifying game. However, Reyna is potentially cleared to play on Sunday against Bayer Leverkusen, as he has finally returned to the training field.

It has been a long time since the USMNT has found success in the World Cup, and while we hope they will be able to make 2022 their year, they have a long way to go before that can actually happen. Injuries are their biggest stumbling block as of right now, but if they can get their players healthy again, they have a real shot of qualifying for and doing well in the World Cup this November.