USMNT preview for single-elimination knockout game vs. No. 8 Netherlands

The GIST: Set your alarm because No. 16 USMNT will play No. 8 Netherlands in the single-elimination knockout round tomorrow at 10 a.m. ET. Grab your brunch squad, but hold off on that manicure because it’s going to be a battle.

The matchup: Outside of friendlies, tomorrow’s match will be the first time the Americans play the Dutch on an international stage. In those five previous clashes, the Netherlands came out on top four times, but the USMNT took home the W in their most recent meeting in 2015.

• Adding to the drama, both teams failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, so it’s safe to say they’re out to prove themselves.

The keys to success: The U.S. and the Netherlands are both solid defensively. Thanks to the dependable midfield, anchored by captain (and America’s sweetheart) Tyler Adams, the red, white and blue allowed just one shot on goal in the first half of each of their three group-stage games. Expect the Dutch to get creative to penetrate that wall.

• As for the U.S. offense, what they need most of all is a finisher, especially after scoring just twice in three games. Will tomorrow finally be forward Gio Reyna’s time to shine? Well, that might depend on a certain injured Avenger.

• The aforementioned Pulisic’s status for tomorrow’s game is still uncertain, but he’s doing “everything in his power” to be on the field. United we stand.