U.S. Coach Benches Four Players to Avoid Yellow-Card Suspensions for Knockout Rounds

com reported. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino made the decision ahead of the group-stage finale to keep the players available for the knockout rounds that begin July 1. Pochettino held a pre-match press conference on June 24 and said the choice was straightforward.

"My decision will be easy for the guys with yellow cards," he stated. " World Cup rules impose an automatic one-match suspension in the Round of 32 on any player who receives two yellow cards during the three group-stage matches. The four players in question are Chris Richards, Tyler Adams, Folarin Balogun and Antonee Robinson.

Pochettino also cited lingering injuries, heavy club-season workloads from a 10-month European campaign, player age and recovery needs when explaining his lineup choices. He said he wants the team to play Thursday's match with full intensity regardless of the result. Tyler Adams, who started against Australia on June 19, expressed a desire to play.

"I want to be on the field," Adams said on June 24. " Folarin Balogun has scored two goals in the tournament and remains in contention for the Golden Boot. The United States has already secured first place in Group D. Its next match after Thursday is scheduled for July 1 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara.