Mexico is slightly ahead of us - Gregg Berhalter
The United States strategist admitted the Mexican national team is ahead of them before Friday's friendly that comes after the US loss in the Gold Cup final.
A new chapter of the CONCACAF 'Clásico' will open this Friday, September 6, when the United States host Mexico at the MetLife Stadium for a rematch of the Gold Cup Final, where El Tri wounded the Stars & Stripes with the victory for the Concacaf crown.
The US men's national team coach, Gregg Berhalter, talked to the press prior to the game against Mexico, saying they'll be targeting victory to claim to be the best team in North America.
"I think that we're both in a position where we're battling for supremacy in Concacaf. We're both trying to be the top team. I think right now Mexico is slightly ahead of us, having beaten us in the last game and performed well in the last few years."
Berhalter took the time to highlight the players and level of the Mexican national team while afirming that the games between both countries are an excellent display for the fans, adding that a game against Mexico always motivates his side to be better.
"When we play them, you see the intensity takes a different level. Everything is up a level. The tempo of the game is up; tackles are a little harder. These are special games. It's always an occasion to be playing against Mexico even if it's a friendly game or a Gold Cup game or qualifying game or World Cup game."
Sergino Dest will start
Berhalter confirmed that Sergino Dest from Ajax will make his debut when he starts in the game against El Tri, although could not guarantee that the player would remain with the American squad as the Netherlands U21 team coach, Erwin van de Looi, also wants the youngster to join the Dutch team.
"Sergino Dest can expect a call from The Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) in the short term," stated Van de Looi