The USMNT will open group play against Wales in the 2022 FIFA World Cup
Wales won the Qualifying Playoff after defeating Ukraine 1-0 on Sunday and they are now set to face the United States in Qatar on November 21st.
Though it’s been just over two months since the 2022 FIFA World Cup draw took place, the United States Men’s National Team knows now who the final team in their group is, which incidentally is the team they will play in their opening match November 21st. The USMNT will play against Wales in Group B after the UEFA side defeated Ukraine in the World Cup qualifying playoff final on Sunday.
Who else is in Group B?
The Dragons qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 1958 after defeating Ukraine 1-0. Judged as an own goal from Andriy Yarmolenko after a Gareth Bale free kick struck him in the 34th minute, the Ukranian’s unfortunate moment sealed the victory for Wales at Cardiff stadium. There should also be mention of the great performance from Welsh goalkeeper, Wayne Hennessey.
With that the United States now has five months to prepare for their first match, which understandably will be a very crucial one in their quest to advance to the next round, because historically it has been a tone setter for them in past World Cups. Since 1990, the United States has won or tied in their opening match and then gone on to qualify for the knockout stage.
On the flip side, on the three occasions that The USMNT has lost their opening match in past World Cups , they didn’t get out of the group. After facing Wales, the team managed by Gregg Berhalter will play against England before rounding out the stage with a contentious match against Iran.
The USMNT shows respect to Ukraine and congratulates Wales
“Despite Ukraine falling to Wales, U.S. Soccer has been inspired by the spirit and bravery of their national team,” U.S. Soccer wrote in a statement of tribute toward the Ukraine team. “During this horrendous assault against their country, the Ukrainian players provided much needed hope and belief to all of their countrymen and women at home.
We are inspired by all of the people of Ukraine and once again provide our unwavering support for our friends within the Ukrainian Association of Football and all people of Ukraine. We stand with you in the pursuit of a proper and peaceful resolution. U.S. Soccer congratulates Wales on its victory tonight to qualify for the FIFA World Cup and are honored that you will be our opponent as we open the tournament on November 21.”