Paradise, Nev. – Less than an hour after the US Men’s National Team defeated Mexico, Captain America felt the need to deliver a reminder. The jerseys were still drenched in sweat, and emotions still simmering, when Christian Pulisic felt the mood creeping up a bit. “Three. But it was only the semifinals, so the shirtless Pulisic spoke.
“Be gentle with it, guys,” Pulisic interjected. “Enjoy it tonight, enjoy it tonight, but we’re here to win the final. We’re here to beat Canada.”
That’s what they’ll be trying to do against them on Sunday night Others Regional rivals, 2023 CONCACAF Nations League Finals (9:06 pm ET, Paramount+/Univision). On Thursday, they issued a “f***ing statement”. Pulisic had requested. On Sunday, they’ll go in search of another trophy — and Canada’s first in two decades.
The USMNT will be short-handed without Weston McKenney and Sergino Test, who were suspended after a red card against Mexico. Canada will be confident after beating the USA in World Cup qualifying and finishing atop the CONCACAF table.
“I think we’ve earned the respect of everybody in this area,” Canadian defenseman Alistair Johnston said Saturday. “But now, it’s time for everyone, us, and our fan base to start lifting the trophies back home. That we’re a real team.”
But the USMNT, the reigning kings of CONCACAF, will have their say.
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