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With RSL eliminated from the MLS Cup playoffs, we have an international break to lift our spirits and give us something to cheer for. The US will be facing off on Thursday against their long time rivals (since 1776) England. Here is what you need to know about the match.
When: Thursday, November 15th at 1:00pm MT.
Where: Wembley Stadium, London, England.
How to watch: ESPN2, UniMás, and UDN
What to look for: It’s always a good time when the US and England play soccer. The rivalry may not carry the geopolitical undertones that a US/Mexico game might have, but this matchup still has something to it. The US has always used England and the Premier League as a measuring stick of sorts. We share the same language, arts, and historical events. So while it is a friendly, both teams have bragging rights on the line.
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To add to the excitement, Wayne Rooney will done the three lions kit for the final time in his “testament” game for England. Rooney is a long time England national team player and current DC United player here in the US. So that will add another layer to the story line and drama of the spectacle.
Another connecting storyline in this game is Cameron Carter-Vickers. He is capped by the US and features for us regularly of late, despite being born in England and playing for Swansea City.
The last time these two nations met was in the 2010 FIFA World Cup in a match that featured RSL’s own Robbie Findley. Who can forget the quick start by England that saw Steven Gerrard score an early lead for the Three Lions in the 4th minute. It appeared that England would run away with the game and maybe the group before that was dashed by a low blasted shot from Clint Dempsey that to this day will haunt England football faithful. The seemingly innocuous shot was mishandled by England keeper Robert Green and trickled past his flailing arms and into the net. The US went on to draw the match 1-1 and ultimately won the group over England while advancing to the knockout rounds.
Despite having the most recent and meaningful win between the two nations, the USA does have a paltry 2-7-1 (W/L/D) record all time.
Our Prediction: This game is at Wembley, against a team that will be keen to send Rooney off with a resounding win. Plan on the US struggling through this one. Plan on a 2-1 loss for the USA.