Stingy up the middle and hopeful on the flanks.
That’s what we’re thinking upon further review of the United States’ potential formation in the wake of suspensions to Jermaine Jones, Alejandro Bedoya and Bobby Wood for the Copa America Centenario semifinal versus Argentina on Tuesday.
Argentina is a lethal side with the best player in the world, but the USMNT isn’t preparing like a blowout or even a loss is on the way. Instead, like any side faced with the task, the Yanks will try to intelligently devise a way to beat La Albiceleste and set up a final against the winner of Colombia and Chile.
[ MORE: Pogba’s agent admits Real Madrid talks ]
With DeAndre Yedlin returning to the fold, Klinsmann should opt to insert a veteran presence on the right side and Graham Zusi fits that bill. The coach want to double down on defense on the left while also putting Fabian Johnson close to his best spot: left wing.
The middle of the park is bereft of options with Jones and Bedoya out, so it’ll be Kyle Beckerman and not Perry Kitchen playing next to Michael Bradley.
The real interior issue is the limited bench options. With the three suspensions and third goalkeeper ruled out, the Yanks only have 19 bodies. Substitutions will be limited to Tim Howard, Darlington Nagbe, Steve Birnbaum, Edgar Castillo, Michael Orozco, Kitchen, Christian Pulisic and Chris Wondolowski
Guzan
Yedlin -- Cameron -- Brooks -- Besler
Zusi -- Beckerman -- Bradley -- Johnson
Dempsey -- Zardes