#world-cup-preparation

#world-cup-preparation

"It's an honor," midfielder Diego Luna, who had played for the U.S. just four times before the Gold Cup, told reporters about wearing the crest. "I think every single one of these players thinks about it the same way I do. It's the No. 1 dream that we've had as kids and we're going to fight for this to have as many chances to wear it was we can."

Fifa's expanded Club World Cup has faced criticism over player welfare as matches are played in extreme heat, with concerns about the competition's purpose and attendance.

“I spoke to him in person and saw a guy who is really eager to be competitive. His arrival is crucial for a group that needs players like him, leadership,” Tare told Gazzetta dello Sport.

Since last year's Olympic gold medal triumph, U.S. women's national team head coach Emma Hayes has been handing out international debuts like Oprah Winfrey's Ultimate Car Giveaway: "You get a cap! You get a cap!"

Despite Ireland's encouraging signs and potential for building confidence, the late goal conceded suggests areas for improvement as they prepare for the autumn matches.

Thomas Tuchel is implementing warm-weather training sessions for his squad next March and in Miami in June to prepare for the World Cup amid concerns of heat.