The USA and Oman are set to clash in a friendly match at Allianz Field in Minnesota on Tuesday, marking their final encounter before embarking on their respective World Cup qualifying campaigns.
While this will be their first meeting, both teams come into the game with recent victories fueling their confidence.
The Americans secured an impressive 3-0 win over Uzbekistan in their previous outing, displaying a combination of early assertiveness and a late surge in attacks.
However, despite their triumph, the 11th ranked US squad showcased some moments of sloppy passing and turnovers during the match.
Nonetheless, they excelled in winning duels and creating turnovers in crucial areas while displaying efficiency in transitioning down the flanks.
Returning manager Gregg Berhalter faces scrutiny, as an investigation into his past and a domestic violence incident from 1992 involving him and his wife looms over him.
Despite potential tension with some players, Berhalter has his sights set on transforming American soccer and building an elite team capable of making a deep run in the 2026 World Cup, which the United States will co-host with Mexico and Canada.
Oman, led by manager Branko Ivankovic, enters this contest on a three-match unbeaten streak, with their only loss this year coming against Uzbekistan (3-0).
Having upset Japan in a 2021 World Cup qualifier and achieved notable performances in recent tournaments, Oman poses a formidable challenge. With Ivankovic’s experience and a winning pedigree, the Omani team has shown great promise.
Given their impressive track record and the team’s determination, the USA is favored to win this friendly encounter.
While the Americans may not have displayed their full potential in recent matches, their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities gives them an edge over Oman.
Possible Starting Lineups:
USA:
- Callender
- Dest
- McKenzie
- M. Robinson
- Paredes
- McKennie
- De la Torre
- Tillman
- Weah
- Balogun
- Aaronson
Oman:
- Al-Rushaidi
- Al-Yahmadi
- Al-Khamisi
- Al-Braiki
- Al-Kaabi
- Fawaz
- Al-Saadi
- Al-Adawi
- Saleh
- Al-Yahyaei
- Al-Sabhi
Prediction: USA 2-0 Oman