Accomplished coach and two-time World Cup veteran as a player, Berhalter kindly answered MAP’s questions about what is at stake in this game, his team’s chances at the World Cup, the Atlas Lions and Moroccan football.
The 49-year-old head coach is familiar with Moroccan football, having himself played in the 2-1 loss to the national team in 1999 in Marrakech.
After retiring in 2011, Berhalter became the first American to take over a European club, Hammarby Syedis, and went on to enjoy a string of successes with teams in Major League Soccer (MLS).
However, when he was appointed head coach for the national football team, he did not have all odds in his favor. Fans were expecting a big name. Team USA had just been eliminated from the race for the World Cup in Russia after a major last-game loss to a modest Trinidad and Tobago. This was their first absence from a World Cup since 1986.
Berhalter, however, put his faith in young people and under his leadership the team gradually regained its strength. The results were soon to follow.
Despite a highly competitive group, “Captain America” and Chelsea striker Christian Pulisic and his teammates have every chance to shine at the upcoming global event.
The U.S. team is in group B with England, Iran and the qualifying team between Scotland, Ukraine and Wales.
1- Can you tell us how important the next friendly against Morocco is in your preparation for the World cup?
We think the games against Morocco and Uruguay are important opportunities for our World Cup preparation. We wanted to play against teams who were also in the World Cup so we knew they would be competitive. Morocco will be the first African opponent for this group of players, so we are very much looking forward to the challenge.
2- How do you assess the level of the Moroccan national team and in general Moroccan football?
The Moroccan team was outstanding during World Cup Qualifying. They score a lot of goals and surrender very few, so this will be a good challenge. The United States has never beaten Morocco and we are very aware of their quality.
3- The US team has plenty of talents and stars. What are your aspirations for the next World Cup in Qatar ?
When you look at our group, it may be the toughest of any in the World Cup. Our first objective is to advance to the knockout phase, and from there we know anything can happen. We will have the youngest team in the world, and they have shown throughout the qualification process that they are capable of beating anyone.
4- Morocco has been drawn with Belgium, Croatia, and Canada. You have faced the Canadian team many times.
Do you have any advice to the Moroccan coach and players on how to approach this particular game?
Canada has a solid team. They have a very good coach in John Herdman and they are very clear in their identity. Canada has a strong core as well as some highly talented players, so they will be difficult to beat.
Source: Agency Morocaine De Presse