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<figcaption>Photo by Photo Prestige/Soccrates/Getty Images</figcaption> </figure>

Our PSV trio of Dest, Pepi, and Tillman face Dortmund in Champions League knockouts, while Pulisic and Musah make their way in Europa League. <p>Midweek USMNT action is here. Let’s get into it! </p><h2>Monday</h2> <li> Everton** vs Crystal Palace, 3p on USA, Universo, Fubo, Sling, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo**: Chris Richards and Palace visit Everton in Premier League action.

<p>Also in action: </p></li><li> NAC Breda vs Cambuur, 2p**: Agustín Anello and Cambuur visit Breda in the Eerste Divisie.**

<h2>Tuesday</h2>

</li><li> PSV vs Borussia Dortmund, 3p on Paramount+, TUDN USA, UniMás, Fubo (free trial), and ViX: For anyone who has been frustrated with Dortmund recently and wanted to root against them, here’s your chance. PSV Americano, featuring Sergiño Dest, Ricardo Pepi, and Malik Tillman face Dortmund in the Champions League round of 16. </li><li> Deportivo Saprissa vs Philadelphia Union, 10p on FS2, TUDN, Fubo, Sling: Jack McGlynn, Quinn Sullivan, and the Union visit Costa Rican powerhouse Saprissa in the Concacaf Champions Cup.

<p>Also in action:

</p></li><li> Cardiff City vs Blackburn Rovers, 2:45p**: Ethan Horvath and Cardiff face <s>Duncan McGuire</s> just kidding, Blackburn weren’t able to finalize his loan from Orlando City.**

</li><li> St. Louis City vs Houston Dynamo, 8p on FS2, Fubo, Sling**: Aziel Jackson and St. Louis meet the Dynamo in Concacaf Champions Cup play. Houston are without a serious USMNT prospect, but do feature Panamanian international Adalberto Carrasquilla. **

</li><li> Necaxa vs Chivas, 10p**: Cade Cowell and Chivas visit Necaxa in Liga MX.**

<h2>Wednesday</h2>

</li><li> Inter Miami vs Real Salt Lake, 8p on MLS Season Pass: Drake Callender, Julian Gressel, Noah Allen, DeAndre Yedlin, and Miami host Diego Luna, Fidel Barajas, and RSL to kick off the 2024 MLS season. </li><li> Independiente de La Chorerra vs New England Revolution, 8p on TUDN, Fubo: DeJuan Jones, Noel Buck, Esmir Bajraktarevic, and the Revs travel to La Chorrera, Panama to face CAI in Concacaf Champions Cup.

<p>Also in action:

</p></li><li> Cavalry FC vs Orlando City, 10p on FS2, TUDN, Fubo, Sling**: Ah, there’s Duncan McGuire. He and Orlando City journey north to meet Canadian side Cavalry in the Concacaf Champions Cup.**

</li><li> América vs Mazátlan, 10p on TUDN, UniMás, Fubo**: Alejandro Zendejas and Club América host Mazátlan in Liga MX.**

<h2>Thursday</h2>

</li><li> Rennes vs AC Milan, 12:45p on Paramount+, TUDN, CBS Sports Network, Fubo, ViX: Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah, and Milan make the return trip to Rennes, having won 3-0 at home in the first leg. If they advance on aggregate, they move into the Europa League round of 16. </li><li> Dinamo Zagreb vs Real Betis, 12:45p on Paramount+, ViX: Johnny Cardoso and Betis have their work cut out for them, having lost 0-1 to Zagreb in the first leg at home. They’ll need to mount a comeback if they hope to advance past the Europa Conference League round of 32.

<p>Also in action:

</p></li><li> Moca FC vs Nashville SC, 7p on FS2, Fubo, Sling**: Walker Zimmerman, Shaq Moore, new arrival Tyler Boyd, and Nashville SC travel to the Dominican Republic to open their Concacaf Champions Cup campaign.**

</li><li> Cavalier SC vs FC Cincinnati, 9p on FS2, Fubo, Sling**: Brandon Vázquez has left FC Cincy for the Rayados of Monterrey, but Cincinnati still has USMNT-relevant players like Miles Robinson, Lucho Acosta, Matt Miazga, and Roman Celentano. They travel to Jamaica to open Concacaf Champions Cup play.**

<h2>Friday</h2>

</li><li> Utrecht vs Heracles, 2p: Taylor Booth and Utrecht host Luca de la Torre’s old club, Heracles Almelo, in Eredivisie action. </li><li> Coventry vs Preston, 2:45p: Haji Wright and Coventry face Duane Holmes and Preston North End in the Championship. </li><li> Juárez vs Monterrey, 10p on FS2, FOX Deportes, Fubo, Sling: Brandon Vázquez and Monterrey face the Bravos of Juárez in Liga MX.

<p>Also in action:

</p></li><li> Holstein Kiel vs St. Pauli, 12:30p on ESPN+: Manager Fabian Hürzeler and St. Pauli are tied with Holstein Kiel atop the 2. Bundesliga table. Born in Houston, Hürzeler has led St. Pauli to just 1 loss in 21 league matches this season. Former FC Dallas homegrown defender Nico Carrera is on the books at Holstein Kiel, but has only played for their reserves this season (in the fourth-tier Regionalliga).

</li><li> Charleroi vs Genk, 2:45p on ESPN+ (free trial): Mark McKenzie and Genk visit Charleroi in Belgium’s top tier.

<p>That’s it! Did I miss anything that matters? Let me know in the comments below. Let’s see who impresses this week! </p><p>

</p></li>

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<figcaption>Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images</figcaption> </figure>

Cardoso is off to a hot start in La Liga, and more action around Europe this weekend <p>Johnny Cardoso is off to a hot start since joining Real Betis, including picking up his first assist last weekend. The PSV trio look to continue their undefeated Eredivisie season, and the USMNT contingent in Italy look to hang with the big boys. There is quite a bit of meaningful action this weekend and it starts on Friday, so let’s get to it. </p><h2>Friday</h2> <h4>PSV Eindhoven v Heracles - 2p on ESPN+</h4> <p>Ricardo Pepi continues to come off the bench for PSV Eindhoven, but scored his 5th goal last weekend as PSV defeated FC Volendam 5-1. Pepi has scored his five goals in just 229 minutes of play this season, a remarkable (and likely unsustainable) pace. While Pepi continues to come off the bench in his super sub role and Malik Tillman also came off the bench last weekend in his return from injury, Sergiño Dest continues to start for undefeated PSV, who have only 2 draws in league play this season. PSV face Heracles on Friday evening, a side that are just four points out of the relegation playoff spot, but are coming off a 3-2 win over bottom of the table Vitesse. </p><p> </p><h2>Saturday</h2> <h4>Wolfsburg v Borussia Dortmund - 9:30a on ESPN+</h4> <p>Kevin Paredes started and played 74 minutes last weekend in Wolfsburg’s 1-0 loss to Union Berlin. Wolfsburg are looking for their first win in two months and have fallen to 12th place in the Bundesliga standings. They face a Borussia Dortmund side that have won four of five since returning from the winter break, their lone slip up coming in a scoreless draw with Heidenheim. In each of Dortmund’s victories, they have scored at least three goals. The first time the teams played this season, in late September, Paredes was not included in the matchday squad and Wolfsburg fell to Dortmund 1-0. </p><h4>Hoffenheim v Union Berlin - 9:30a on ESPN+</h4> <p>John Brooks was out last week for Hoffenheim due to a yellow card accumulation suspension as his side drew with Köln 1-1. Brooks had started the previous two matches for Hoffenheim, which were also both draws. Brooks and Hoffenheim will be facing Union Berlin and Brenden Aaronson this weekend in a rematch of their 2-0 victory in September. Aaronson started that September loss, but was pulled at halftime and has only started two matches since then. </p><h4>Heidenheim v Bayer Leverkusen - 9:30a on ESPN+</h4> <p>Lennard Maloney picked up his first Bundesliga goal last weekend as Heidenheim defeated Werder Bremen 2-1. Maloney has started every match for Heidenheim this season, and the team is now in 9th place and undefeated in their last eight matches. They will face league-leading Beyer Leverkusen, who have not suffered a Bundesliga defeat this season and defeated Heidenheim 4-1 in their first matchup this season. </p><h4>Fulham v Aston Villa - 10a on Peacock</h4> <p>Tim Ream and Antonee Robinson both played the full 90 for Fulham last weekend in a 3-1 win over Bournemouth that saw the sides swap places in the EPL table, with Fulham now in 12th place. The three points also pulled Fulham a full 10 points out of the relegation zone. They now face fifth place Aston Villa, who are just a point out of Champions League position. </p><h4>Nottingham Forest v West Ham United - 10a on Peacock</h4> <p>Nottingham Forest is still looking for their first win since benching Matt Turner in favor of Matz Sels as well as bringing in Giovanni Reyna from Dortmund. Reyna has played a handful of minutes the past two weeks, but has thus far been unable to make a difference for the Forst side that are coming off a 3-2 loss to Newcastle United and are in 16th place, just two points removed from the relegation zone. </p><h4>Hellas Verona v Juventus - Noon on Paramount+</h4> <p>Tim Weah received his first start in over a month for Juventus and joined Weston McKennie in the starting lineup but their team fell 1-0 to 16th place Udinese and dropped seven points back of Inter Milan. Juventus now face Hellas Verona, who are in the relegation zone in 18th place. </p><h4>RB Leipzig v Borussia Monchengladbach - 12:30p on ESPN+</h4> <p>Joe Scally saw his 12-match starting streak snapped last weekend as he came off the bench for the final 20 as Borussia Mönchengladbach was held to a scoreless draw by last place Darmstadt, who picked up just their twelfth point of the season. Jordan Pefok started the match, but had to be subbed in stoppage time of the first half due to a hamstring injury. Pefok initially tried to play through the injury, but was unable to continue. ‘Gladbach remain six points out of the relegation zone and now face fifth place RB Leipzig, who are coming off a 1-0 loss to Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16. </p><h4>Celta Vigo v FC Barcelona - 12:30p on ESPN+</h4> <p>Luca de la Torre has started four straight for Celta Vigo, but his side fell 3-2 to Getafe last weekend and slipped into 17th place, just three points ahead of Cadiz and the relegation zone. Celta Vigo now face third place Barcelona, who have two of three but are coming off a 3-3 draw with Granada and are 10 points back of Real Madrid in the race for the La Liga title. </p><p> </p><h2>Sunday</h2> <h4>Sheffield United v Brighton &amp; Hove Albion - 9a on USA Network</h4> <p>Auston Trusty was benched last weekend and Sheffield United snapped a seven-match winless streak as they defeated fellow relegation candidate Luton Town 3-1. Trusty had started 16 straight matches, but Sheffield had won just twice in that stretch, though they had also failed to win prior to him joining the starting lineup. Last weekend’s victory was just the team’s third win of the season. On Sunday, they will face a Brighton &amp; Hove Albion side that they played to a 1-1 draw in November. </p><h4>Monaco v Tolouse - 9a on beIN Sports</h4> <p>Folarin Balogun saw 10 minutes off the bench last weekend as Monaco moved into third place with a 3-2 win over second place Nice. Balogun entered the match shortly after his team scored their third to retake the lead in what was a back and forth affair. On Sunday, Monaco will again face a Toluse side that they saw in late December, a match which Monaco won 2-1 with Balogun earning the penalty on the deciding goal. </p><h4>Monza v AC Milan - 2:45p on Paramount+</h4> <p>Christian Pulisic and Yunus Musah both started Thursday in AC Milan’s 3-0 win over Stade Rennais in Europa League action. Pulisic has also started every match in which he’s been fit for Milan, while Yunus Musah received his first start in two months as he played the full 90. Milan have won seven of nine and face a Monza side that is coming off a pair of scoreless draws. </p><h4>Real Betis v Deportivo Alaves - 3p on ESPN Deportes and ESPN+</h4> <p>Johnny Cardoso continues to start and be a key figure for Real Betis since joining the club in mid January. Betis lost to Dynamo Zagreb 1-0 on Thursday in Europa Conference League play, with Johnny playing the full 90. Last weekend, Betis defeated Cadiz 2-0 as Johnny picked up an assist after pressing high and forcing a turnover to open the scoring. The win moved Betis into sixth place. On Sunday, they face Deportivo Alavés, who are middle of the table with 27 points and are coming off a 1-1 draw with Villarreal. </p><p>Follow all the action in the comments!

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<figcaption>Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption> </figure>

They’re down 1 spot from December. <p>The FIFA world rankings were updated today, and the United States Men’s National Team has dropped just 1 spot. In the February 2024 world rankings, the USMNT dropped to 13th, just one spot above Colombia, who will face the United States in a pre-Copa América friendly in June. </p><p>The top 10 in the world remained unchanged, with all of them remaining idle during the month of January: Argentina, France, England, Belgium, Brazil, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Croatia. </p><p>The USMNT only lost 3.57 points between December and today’s rankings, which dropped them just below Morocco, who gained 1.70 points due to their participation in the Africa Cup of Nations. Most of the movement in the rankings were based on the results of the Africa Cup of Nations, won by Ivory Coast, and the Asian Cup, won by Qatar for the second consecutive time. </p><p>Despite dropping a spot in the rankings, the USMNT remain the top ranked team in Concacaf. Mexico is 15th, followed by Panama (44), Canada (50), and Costa Rica (54). Jamaica, who the USMNT will face in the semifinals of the Concacaf Nations League, are at 57th. </p><p>Is 13th where you would put the USMNT? Discuss in the comments.

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<figcaption>Photo by Daniele Badolato - Juventus FC/Juventus FC via Getty Images</figcaption> </figure>

Americans look to continue their momentum all across the globe in this week’s matches. <p>Midweek USMNT action is here. Let’s get into it! </p><h2>Monday</h2>

<li> Juventus** vs Udinese, 2:45p on Paramount+, CBS Sports Golazo**: Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, and Juve host Udinese in Serie A. </li><li> Crystal Palace vs Chelsea, 3p on USA, Universo, Fubo, Sling: Chris Richards and Crystal Palace welcome Chelsea into Selhurst Park for a Premier League match.

<h2>Tuesday</h2> </li><li> Chivas vs Forge FC, 10p on FS2, TUDN, Fubo, Sling: Cade Cowell’s 2 goals and 1 assist powered Chivas past Forge in the away leg of Concacaf Champions Cup. Cowell and Chivas hold a 3-1 aggregate lead going into the home leg, as the Canadian club makes the trip to Guadalajara.

<p>Also in action:

</p></li><li> Gil Vicente vs Vizela, 10:30a**: Alex Méndez and Vizela visit Gil Vicente in Liga Portugal.**

</li><li> Norwich City vs Watford, 2:45p**: Josh Sargent and the Canaries host Watford in the Championship.**

</li><li> West Brom vs Cardiff, 3p**: Daryl Dike suffered an injury with West Brom at the weekend; Ethan Horvath joined Cardiff just recently from Nottingham Forest.**

</li><li> Gimnasia LP vs Hurácan, 5:15p on Paramount+, Fubo, Fanatiz, AFA Play**: Alan Soñora and Hurácan are on the road in Copa de la Liga Profesional play.**

<h2>Wednesday</h2>

</li><li> Plymouth Argyle vs Coventry, 2:45p: Haji Wright and Coventry visit Plymouth in the Championship. </li><li> América vs Real Estelí, 10:15p on FS2, Fubo, Sling, ViX: Alejandro Zendejas and América host Nicaraguan club Real Estelí, having lost the away leg, 1-2. Las Águilas will need to make a comeback at home to advance in the Concacaf Champions Cup.

<p>Also in action:

</p></li><li> Preston vs Middlesbrough, 2:45p**: Matthew Hoppe and Boro visit Preston (Duane Holmes is injured) in the Championship.**

</li><li> Stoke City vs QPR, 2:45p**: Reggie Cannon and QPR visit Geoff Cameron’s old club in the Championship.**

</li><li> Tigres vs Vancouver Whitecaps, 8p on FS2, Fubo, Sling**: Brian White and the ‘Caps visit Tigres in Concacaf Champions Cup. The Whitecaps drew 1-1 at home in the first leg.**

<h2>Thursday</h2>

</li><li> AC Milan** vs Rennes, 3p on Paramount+, TUDN, CBS Sports Network, UniMás, Fubo (free trial), ViX**: Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah and Milan begin their Europa League campaign at home against French opposition in the round of 32. </li><li> Real Betis vs Dinamo Zagreb, 3p on Paramount+, ViX: Johnny Cardoso and Betis host Croatian powerhouse Zagreb in the Europa Conference League round of 32.

<p>Also in action:

</p></li><li> Inter Miami vs Newell’s Old Boys, 7:30p on MLS Season Pass**: Drake Callender, Julian Gressel, Noah Allen, DeAndre Yedlin, and Inter Miami continue their preseason world tour, this time hosting Messi’s childhood club Newell’s in a Miami friendly.**

</li><li> Monterrey vs Comunicaciones, 10:15p on FS2, Fubo, Sling**: Brandon Vázquez and Rayados dominated Comunicaciones 4-1 in the first leg of this Concacaf Champions Cup tie. The scoreline could be even more dramatic with Monterrey at home for the second leg.**

<h2>Friday</h2> </li><li> PSV vs Heracles, 2p on ESPN+ (free trial): Sergiño Dest, Malik Tillman, Ricardo Pepi, and PSV host Heracles in the Eredivisie.

<p>Also in action:

</p></li><li> Hannover vs Greuther Fürth, 12:30p on ESPN+: US U23 defender Maxi Dietz, Julian Green, and Fürth visit Hannover in the 2. Bundesliga.

</li><li> Westerlo vs Standard Liège, 2:45p**: Bryan Reynolds, Griffin Yow, and Westerlo face off with Marlon Fossey and Standard in Belgium’s top division.**

</li><li> Mazatlán vs Chivas, 10p**: Cade Cowell and Chivas visit Mazatlán in Liga MX.**

<p>That’s it! Did I miss anything that matters? Let me know in the comments below. Let’s see who impresses this week! </p><p>

</p></li>

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<figcaption>Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images</figcaption> </figure>

Is a historically strong position becoming an area of weakness? <p>In an unusual turn of events, it seems that just as fans of the USMNT are seeing offensive output in Europe’s top leagues reach new levels, the center of the defense is taking some hits. It’s a real mixed bag for USMNT players in Europe, as some of our best offensive and midfield players are playing high impact soccer in the top leagues, scoring goals and making an impact. Meanwhile, some of the top centerbacks for the national team are making their way in the top league in the world, but that doesn’t mean the results are all positive. Tim Ream got beat for a tying goal last weekend, Chris Richards is being played all around the back with mixed results, and Auston Trusty’s Sheffield United are on a historically bad pace. There’s quite a bit to keep track of this weekend, so let’s get to it. </p><p> </p><h2>Friday</h2> <h4>Cadiz v Real Betis - 3p on ESPN Deportes and ESPN+</h4> <p>Johnny Cardoso has started three straight league matches for Real Betis and went 90 minutes the previous two weeks, but he did miss the team’s Copa Del Ray loss to Deportivo Alavés on Tuesday due to an ongoing ankle injury. He has been included in the initial squad list for Friday’s matchup with 18th place Cadiz, who are three points from relegation safety. Betis are currently in 8th place, just two points back of Real Sociedad for a top six finish that would qualify them for Europa Conference League play next season. </p><p> </p><h2>Saturday</h2> <h4>Union Berlin v Wolfsburg - 9:30a on ESPN+</h4> <p>Brendan Aaronson played just eight minutes for Union Berlin on Wednesday as the team drew 1-1 with Mainz and remained in 15th place in the Bundesliga standings, three points out of relegation. Aaronson’s Union side will be taking on Kevin Paredes and Wolfsburg, who have drawn four straight matches. Paredes has started the past two matches and gone the full 90 for Wolfsburg, who are currently in 11th place, just five points ahead of Berlin. </p><h4>Borussia Mönchengladbach v Darmstadt - 9:30a on ESPN+</h4> <p>Joe Scally is once again on pace to play over 2,000 minutes in a season for Borussia Mönchengladbach, a mark he will have achieved in each of his three seasons since joining the club. Still just 21 (and having only turned that on New Years Eve), it’s remarkable that Scally has already played over 5,500 Bundesliga minutes in his young career. Scally has started twelve straight for ‘Gladbach, while his USMNT teammate Jordan Pefok has started three straight and has goal contributions in three of the last four matches. The club needs to get back on the winning track, as they have just one win in their past seven matches and are coming off a 3-1 loss to Bayern Munich. This weekend, they will face a Darmstadt team that is bottom of the table with just 11 points in 20 matches. </p><h4>Werder Bremen v Heidenheim - 9:30a on ESPN+</h4> <p>Lennard Maloney has started every match for Heidenheim this season, and the club is currently in 10th place on a seven game unbeaten streak, though the past four have all been draws. The team has been playing stout defense as of late but have lacked a goal scoring threat. </p><h4>Fulham v Bournemouth - 10a on Peacock</h4> <p>Antonee Robinson, Tim Ream and Fulham will look to bounce back against Bournemouth on Saturday after giving up a stoppage time goal to Burnley last week that saw the chance for a win slip away. Robinson picked up an assist in the draw while Tim Ream got his first start in two months but was beaten on the final goal as Burnley drew level. 13th place Fulham, who are just seven points clear of the relegation zone, will face a Bournemouth side that are just ahead of them in the table and coming off back to back 1-1 draws. </p><h4>Luton Town v Sheffield United - 10a on Peacock</h4> <p>Auston Trusty continues to get EPL starts with Sheffield United, but the team has been incredibly leaky at the back, giving up 59 goals through 23 matches, including five last weekend to Aston Villa. The 2.56 goals per game has them on pace to give up 97 goals which would smash the previous high (low?) in a 38 match season, a mark which was set by Derby County in the 2007-08 season when they gave up 89 goals. Perhaps not all hope is lost for USMNT fans, who may remember the 2018-19 Fulham team featuring Tim Ream at centerback. That team gave up 81 goals on their way to relegation, with Ream starting in 24 of those matches. That team was also on pace to break the goals allowed mark before shutting out their opponents in three of their last five matches, though the 81 goals still put them in pretty dubious territory. Sheffield are going to need to find a similar streak if they are to avoid infamy on their way to relegation this season. They face a Luton Town side that is very close to the relegation zone themselves, though they have scored 32 goals this season, a mark which puts them close to the top 10. The teams just played on Boxing Day with Luton Town picking up a 3-2 win. </p><h4>Nottingham Forest v Newcastle United - 12:30p on NBC</h4> <p>Gio Reyna saw twelve minutes off the bench last weekend in his Nottingham Forest debut, a 1-1 draw with Bournemouth. As expected, Matt Turner was benched in favor of newcomer Matz Sels. Turner was back between the sticks on Wednesday as Sels and Reyna were both ineligible for the FA Cup replay. Turner stopped six shots, plus a penalty during the shootout as his team advanced over Bristol City. It seems unlikely that was enough to return to his starting spot for league play, but Sels was not rock solid last weekend either so the opportunity could return for Turner at some point if he’s able to stay sharp. Callum Hudson-Odoi was injured last weekend, which could accelerate the team’s plans for getting Reyna minutes as well. </p><p> </p><h2>Sunday</h2> <h4>Getafe v Celta Vigo - 8a on ESPN Deportes and ESPN+</h4> <p>Luca de la Torre notched a goal and an assist last weekend as Celta Vigo picked up three crucial points against Osasuna last weekend and moved three points out of the relegation zone. It was de la Torre’s third straight start and the team’s third win in seven matches as they look to claw themselves to middle of the table. They will face 10th place Getafe this weekend, who are coming off a 1-1 draw with Real Betis. </p><h4>Volendam v PSV Eindhoven - 10:45a on ESPN+</h4> <p>Sergiño Dest and PSV Eindhoven came back from a goal down against Ajax last weekend to maintain their unbeaten season in Eredivise play, though it was the second time in three matches that the team has settled for a 1-1 draw. Ricardo Pepi and Malik Tillman both missed the match but are expected to return soon. </p><h4>Hoffenheim v Koln - 11:30a on ESPN+</h4> <p>John Brooks started his second straight match for Hoffenheim last weekend in a 2-2 draw with Wolfsburg, but picked up another late yellow card and is suspended for this weekend’s matchup with Köln. </p><h4>Nice v Monaco - 2:45p on beIN Sports</h4> <p>Folarin Balogun broke his scoreless streak as he drew and converted a penalty on Thursday in Monaco’s Coupe de France match with FC Rouen. Unfortunately, the match went to a penalty shootout after ending regulation tied 1-1 and Balogun missed his kick as Monaco lost 5-6. The goal that Balogun scored did break a scoreless drought that has lasted over two months, with his last goal coming in a late November loss to PSG. Despite Balogun’s struggles, Monaco have scored the second most goals in league play but are currently in fifth place as defending has let them down. They take on second place Nice this weekend, a team they trail by just four points. </p><h4>AC Milan v Napoli - 2:45p on Paramount+</h4> <p>Christian Pulisic and AC Milan defeated Frosinone 3-2 last weekend and remain in third place, though well behind league-leading Inter Milan. Pulisic and AC Milan will have a tough matchup this weekend against seventh place Napoli. Yunus Musah saw just four minutes off the bench last weekend and hasn’t started a match since early December. </p><h2>Monday</h2> <h4>Juventus v Udinese - 2:45p on Paramount+</h4> <p>Weston McKennie, Tim Weah and Juventus will need to keep the disappointment of last weekend’s 1-0 loss to Inter from building into a losing streak as they face Udinese this weekend. The loss saw Inter take a commanding four point lead for the league title with a game in hand. With Inter having lost just one match so far this season, it seems unlikely that they will slip up. Juventus will have to keep the pressure on, which can start by picking up all three points against 16th place Udinese this weekend. </p><h4>Crystal Palace v Chelsea FC - 3p on USA Network</h4> <p>Chris Richards and Crystal Palace suffered an ugly 4-1 loss to Brighton last weekend and have given up 11 goals in their past three matches. They face a Chelsea side that defeated Aston Villa 3-1 midweek in FA Cup play but has lost their last two league matches while giving up four goals in each. </p><p>Discuss all the weekend action in the comments.

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<figcaption>Photo by Cristian Trujillo/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images</figcaption> </figure>

Gio Reyna, Johnny Cardoso, and a host of players who’ve recently found a new club are in action this midweek. <p>Midweek USMNT action is here. Let’s get into it! </p><h2>Monday</h2> <li> GAIS vs SønderjyskE, 8am: José Gallegos and SønderjyskE play a friendly against Swedish club Göteborgs Atlet- och Idrottssällskap.

<h2>Tuesday</h2>

</li><li> Coventry vs Sheffield Wednesday, 2:45p: Haji Wright and Coventry host Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup. </li><li> Comunicaciones vs Monterrey, 8p on FS2, TUDN, Fubo, Sling, ViX: Brandon Vázquez gets a taste of Concacaf Champions Cup from the Liga MX side as Monterrey goes on the road in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala (known as “Xelaju” or “Xela”). </li><li> Real Estelí vs América, 10p on FS2, TUDN, Fubo, Sling: Alejandro Zendejas and América also travel for a Concacaf Champions Cup game, heading to Nicaragua.

<p>Also in action:

</p></li><li> NEC Nijmegen vs ADO Den Haag, 2p**: Justin Che and Den Haag go on the road in a KNVB Cup quarterfinal.**

</li><li> Real Salt Lake vs Fredrikstad, 2p**: Diego Luna and RSL take on Norwegian club Fredrikstad in The Atlantic Cup (being played in Portugal).**

</li><li> Rangers vs Aberdeen, 3p on Paramount+: Dante Polvara and Aberdeen visit Rangers in Scottish Premiership action.

<h2>Wednesday</h2>

</li><li> Mainz vs Union Berlin, 12:30p on ESPN+: Brenden Aaronson and Union visit Mainz in the Bundesliga. </li><li> Nottingham Forest vs Bristol City, 2;45p: Gio Reyna, Matt Turner, and Forest meet Bristol in the FA Cup. </li><li> Saarbrücken vs Mönchengladbach, 2:45p on ESPN+: Jordan Pefok, Joe Scally, and Gladbach visit Saarbrücken in a DFB Pokal quarterfinal. </li><li> Forge FC vs Chivas, 8p on ViX: Cade Cowell and Chivas visit Canadian club Forge in the Concacaf Champions Cup.

<p>Also in action:

</p></li><li> Vissel Kobe vs Inter Miami, 6a on MLS Season Pass**: Drake Callender, Julian Gressel, Noah Allen, DeAndre Yedlin, and Inter Miami will look to turn things around after their high-profile poor start to preseason so far. Ben Cremaschi is out after having surgery for a sports hernia.**

</li><li> Cambuur vs Vitesse, 12:45p on beIN Sports Connect, Fubo, Sling, Fanatiz**: Two players who were just loaned out face off in a KNVB Cup quarterfinal in the Netherlands. Agustín Anello just joined Cambuur on loan from Sparta Rotterdam, and Eintracht Frankfurt just loaned Paxten Aaronson to Vitesse.**

</li><li> Strasbourg vs Le Havre, 2:30p**: Emmanuel Sabbi and Le Havre visit Strasbourg in the Coupe de France round of 16.**

</li><li> Hibernian vs Celtic, 3p on Paramount+: Cameron Carter-Vickers and Celtic visit Hibs in the Scottish Premiership.

</li><li> Vancouver Whitecaps vs Tigres, 10p on ViX**: Brian White and the ‘Caps host Tigres in Concacaf Champions Cup.**

<h2>Thursday</h2> </li><li> Rouen vs Monaco, 2:45p on FOX Deportes, FOX Soccer Plus, beIN Sports Connect, Fubo (free trial), Sling, Fanatiz: Folarin Balogun and Monaco visit third-division Rouen in the Coupe de France round of 16.

<p>Also in action:

</p></li><li> Odds BK vs FC Dallas, 7:30a**: Jesús Ferreira, Bernard Kamungo, Nkosi Tafari, and FC Dallas visit Norwegian club Odd for a preseason friendly in Marbella, Spain.**

</li><li> Malmö vs FC Dallas, 11a**: Jesús Ferreira, Bernard Kamungo, Nkosi Tafari, and FC Dallas play a second preseason friendly, also in Marbella.**

</li><li> Vizela vs Benfica, 3:45p on Fubo**: Alex Méndez and Vizela host powerhouse Benfica in a Taça de Portugal quarterfinal.**

</li><li> Huracán vs Independiente, 6p on Paramount+, Fanatiz, AFA Play**: Alan Soñora and Huracán host Soñora’s old club Independiente in the Copa de la Liga Profesional.**

<h2>Friday</h2> </li><li> Cádiz vs Real Betis, 3p on ESPN Deportes, ESPN+ (free trial), Fubo: Johnny Cardoso and Betis visit Cádiz in La Liga.

<p>Also in action:

</p></li><li> Odense BK vs Seattle Sounders, 7a**: Obed Vargas, Josh Atencio, Reed-Baker-Whiting, and the Sounders play OB (Emmanuel Sabbi’s old club) in a friendly in Marbella, Spain. **

</li><li> Real Salt Lake vs KÍ, 8a**: Diego Luna and RSL meet Faroe Islands club Klaksvik at the Atlantic Cup in Portugal.**

</li><li> Wehen Wiesbaden vs Nürnberg, 12:30p**: Nathaniel “Nene” Brown and Nürnberg play Wiesbaden in the 2. Bundesliga.**

</li><li> Roda JC vs Dordrecht, 2p**: Korede Osundina and Dordrecht visit Roda in the Eerste Divisie.**

</li><li> Como vs Brescia, 2:30p**: New arrival Niko Gioacchini and Como host Brescia in Serie B.**

</li><li> St. Truiden vs Kortrijk, 2:45p**: Kahveh Zahiroleslam and St. Truiden host Kortrijk in Belgium’s top tier.**

<p>That’s it! Did I miss anything that matters? Let me know in the comments below. Let’s see who impresses this week! </p><p>

</p></li>

<figure>

<figcaption>Photo by Howard Smith/ISI Photos/Getty Images</figcaption> </figure>

We know where the USMNT will play in the group stage. <p>The 2026 World Cup match schedule was officially revealed today, and the United States Men’s National Team learned where they will play in the group stage of the tournament. The schedule was revealed in a special TV event before a worldwide audience. With the release of the match schedule, each of the host teams learned where they will play in the group stage and even where they may play in the knockout stage. </p><p>The USMNT will open their 2026 World Cup when they play on June 12, 2026 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Despite reports that the stadium would be removed from the list of venues, the 70,000-seat stadium, the most expensive in world history, will host the USMNT’s first match. The second group stage match will be at Lumen Field in Seattle on June 19, 2026. They close the group with a match back at SoFi Stadium on June 25, 2026. </p><div> <blockquote> <p lang="en">Our @FIFAWorldCup 26 Group Stage Schedule ️#WeAre26 pic.twitter.com/Z22TqTgRob— U.S. Soccer Men's National Team (@USMNT) February 4, 2024 </p></blockquote>

</div> <p>The opener of the 2026 World Cup will be on June 11, 2026 when Mexico will play at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. It will be the 3rd time that the iconic stadium has hosted a World Cup opener, having previously done it when Mexico hosted in 1970 and 1986. They will then play at Estadio Akron before closing out their group stage back at Estadio Azteca. </p><p>Canada will open the group stage at BMO Field in Toronto on June 12, 2026 before playing twice at BC Place in Vancouver. </p><p>MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Giants and New York Jets, will host the 2026 World Cup Final on July 19, 2026, hosting the biggest sporting event in world sports. The 82,500-seat stadium beat out everyone else to secure the final of many are predicting will be the most watched sporting event in world history. </p><p>Hard Rock Stadium in Miami will host the 3rd place match, while Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta and AT&amp;T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, will host the semifinals. AT&amp;T Stadium will host 9 matches at the 2026 World Cup, the most of any host city. </p><div> <blockquote> <p lang="en"> The #FIFAWorldCup 26 final is headed to New York New Jersey!#WeAre26— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) February 4, 2024 </p></blockquote>

</div> <p>Here’s the full match schedule for the 2026 World Cup: </p><figure>

</figure> <p>Discuss everything in the comments!

</p>

<figure>

<figcaption>Photo by Nicolò Campo/LightRocket via Getty Images</figcaption> </figure>

There are players on the move and titles to contend for this weekend. <p>There have been some significant shifts in the USMNT landscape leading into what could be a big weekend for club matchups as well. Paxten Aaronson has departed Eintracht Frankfurt and Gio Reyna is leaving behind the Bundesliga as well (at least for now). Meanwhile, Weston McKennie and Tim Weah need a result against league leading Inter Milan this weekend for Juventus to keep pace atop Serie A. Here’s where you can watch it all this weekend. </p><h2></h2> <h2>Friday</h2> <h4>Heidenheim v Borussia Dortmund - 2:30p on ESPN+</h4> <p>Lennard Maloney and Heidenheim have drawn three straight matches and sit in 10th place, a strong position for a club newly promoted from 2 .Bundesliga. Their opponent this weekend is 4th place Borussia Dortmund, who suddenly, and for the first time in a long time, don’t have an American playing for them. More on that in a bit. </p><p> </p><h2>Saturday</h2> <h4>Bayern Munich v Borussia Mönchengladbach - 9:30a on ESPN+</h4> <p>Joe Scally, Jordan Pefok and Borussia Mönchengladbach will take on second place Bayern Munich, who trail Beyer Levekusen by two points in the Bundesliga standings and are coming off a 3-2 win over Augsburg. ‘Gladbach held Leverkusen to a scoreless draw last weekend, allowing Bayern to close ground. They will now look for a result in their second straight match against a title contender. </p><h4>Brighton &amp; Hove Albion v Crystal Palace - 10a on USA Network</h4> <p>Chris Richards started at right back on Tuesday in Crystal Palace’s 3-2 win over Sheffield United and Auston Trusty, who started left back in a battle of American centerbacks playing out of position. With the result, Palace are in 14th place heading into their matchup with Brighton this weekend, who sit in 9th place, eight points ahead of Palace in the table. </p><h4>Burnley v Fulham - 10a on Peacock</h4> <p>Just a point ahead of Crystal Palace sit Fulham, who have just one win and one draw in their past six matches. Antonee Robinson continues to go the full 90 minutes in nearly every match for Fulham, while Tim Ream started for the first time in nearly two months in last weekend’s FA Cup loss to Newcastle United and then came on for the final 15 minutes of Fulham’s midweek scoreless draw with Everton. Fulham’s opponent this weekend are relegation-threatened Burnley, who have just 12 points through 22 matches and sit 7 points back of safety. </p><h4>Frosinone v AC Milan - Noon on Paramount+</h4> <p>Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah and AC Milan drew 2-2 with Bologna to fall back to eight points behind league-leading Inter Milan who also have a game in hand. Pulisic is on a three match stretch where he hasn’t recorded a goal scoring contribution. That’s notable because it’s tied for his longest period of the season, as he has six goals and five assists on the year. Yunus Musah has seen a dip in his playing time, as he’s yet to start a match since returning from injury at the start of the year. He has appeared in four straight, with his 31 minutes last weekend against Bologna being his longest outing since his return. Milan are safely in the Champions League positions as they have a 10 point lead on 4th place Atalanta, but the league title is also looking out of the picture as they would need both Inter and Juventus to suffer significant setbacks through the final three months of the season. </p><h4>Sheffield United v Aston Villa - 12:30p on Peacock</h4> <p>Auston Trusty has started the last two matches, and three of the last four, at left back for Sheffield United as the last place team looks to find something positive from a season that will certainly end in relegation. Their opponent this weekend is fifth place Aston Villa, who are tied with Spurs on 43 points. They are coming off a 3-1 home loss to Newcastle United. </p><h4>Ajax v PSV Eindhoven - 2p on ESPN+</h4> <p>Sergiño Dest and PSV Eindhoven bounced back from their Dutch Cup loss to pick up a 2-0 win over Almere City last weekend to keep their undefeated run in the Eredivisie alive. Dest picked up an assist on the opening goal in the match, while Malik Tillman was not in the squad due to illness and Ricardo Pepi came in for the final seven minutes to see out the victory. PSV’s opponent this weekend is league rival Ajax, who stumbled early in the season, losing five of their first ten matches in league play, culminating in a 5-2 loss to PSV the first time the teams played. Since then, Ajax have gone on a nine match undefeated streak of their own, including winning seven of the matches to pull themselves back up to fifth place. However, they are still 21 points behind PSV. Still, Ajax would love to put PSV’s run to an end to ensure that they remain the only team to win the Eredivisie in undefeated fashion. </p><h4>Bournemouth v Nottingham Forest - 9a on Peacock</h4> <p>Nottingham Forest were quite busy during the winter transfer window in what looks likely to have mixed effects on USMNT players. The club signed a third keeper, which seems to indicate that Matt Turner’s days of starting are numbered if not over already. On the flip side, the club also made a move to bring in Gio Reyna from Borussia Dortmund. It’s going to be a big shift moving from a club that generally plays on the front foot in the Bundesliga to one which is more reactionary and a bottom quarter of the table in EPL, but if it means more consistent playing time for Reyna it should be a positive step. Forest are just two points clear of the relegation zone, with a looming Financial Fair Play ruling that could see them docked significant points. They face a Bournemouth team that are six points ahead of them in 12th place. </p><h4>Wolfsburg v Hoffenheim - 9:30a on ESPN+</h4> <p>Kevin Paredes received his first start in over two months and rewarded his manager with a goal in Wolfsburg’s 1-1 draw with Köln last weekend. It was Paredes’s second goal of the season and the first time all year he has played the full 90. John Brooks also went the full 90 minutes last weekend for Hoffenheim, who played Heidenheim to a 1-1 draw as well. </p><h4>Osasuna v Celta Vigo - 10:15a on ESPN+</h4> <p>Luca de la Torre has started two straight for Celta Vigo as they’ve lost a pair of tight matches 1-0 and now sit just a point out of the relegation zone. The team will face 12th place Osasuna on Saturday morning looking to pick up some vital points. </p><h4>RB Leipzig v Union Berlin - 11:30a on ESPN+</h4> <p>Brenden Aaronson saw just seven minutes off the bench last weekend as Union Berlin defeated Darmstadt 1-0 to pick up their third win in six matches. The points pulled Union five clear of relegation as they look to continue to crawl out of the ridiculous hole they dug for themselves through the first half of the season. </p><h4>Real Betis v Getafe - 12:30p on EPSN+</h4> <p>Johnny Cardoso has started two straight for Real Betis since settling in after joining the club in January. He played the full 90 minutes last weekend as Betis defeated Mallorca 1-0, a week after coming off with his team tied against Barcelona only to see them give up two more goals to fall 4-2. Betis are just two points behind Sociedad for Europa League Conference qualifying and this weekend they will face a Getafe side five points back in tenth place. </p><h4>Inter Milan v Juventus - 2:45p on Paramount+</h4> <p>Weston McKennie, Tim Weah and Juventus dropped two crucial points last weekend to relegation-threatened Empoli in a 1-1 draw when they were forced to play three quarters of the match down a man after Arkadiusz Milik was shown a straight red 16 minutes into the match. McKennie started and went the full 90 minutes while Weah came on in the 60th minute. The dropped points saw Juventus fall a point behind this weekend’s opponent, Inter Milan, in the Serie A table with Milan also having the advantage of a game in hand. The teams played to a 1-1 draw in their first meeting this season and Juventus need to do no worse than that on the road to stay within striking distance of the league leaders. </p><p>Hit the comments to discuss this weekend’s action.

</p>

<figure>

<figcaption>Photo by Elizabeth Kreutz/ISI Photos/Getty Images</figcaption> </figure>

The Columbus Crew defender started against Slovenia. <p>The United States Men’s National Team closed out the annual January camp with a 1-0 loss to Slovenia. While friendly results are ultimately meaningless, multiple players received the opportunity to become more familiar with the program, make a senior debut, and, ideally, gain their sea legs at the international level. Sean Zawadzki started on the back line in the match, earning his first cap under Gregg Berhalter. The 23-year-old centre-back had an up-and-down 90 minutes, but inauspicious beginnings are hardly indicative of future success. </p><div> <blockquote> <p lang="en">Zawadzki, you are cleared for take off #Crew96 | 0-2 pic.twitter.com/mTtHJ3c1ka— The Crew (@ColumbusCrew) May 10, 2023 </p></blockquote>

</div> <p>Born in the Cleveland suburb of Olmsted Falls, Ohio, Zawadzki played with Team Challenger FC and the Columbus Crew academy (traveling “over 250 miles each day”) before embarking on a highly successful collegiate career at Georgetown University that included two Big East titles and the 2019 College Cup. In his freshman year, he was named to the BIG EAST All-Freshman squad, followed by a Second Team All-BIG EAST campaign as a sophomore while also competing with the Long Island Rough Riders in USL League Two. As a junior, the defender was once again named Second Team All-Conference while also being selected First Team All-Region by the United Soccer Coaches. His senior season culminated with First Team All-BIG EAST honors, BIG EAST All-Tournament Team selection, and the BIG EAST Defensive Player of the Year award. His coach praised him for “covering ground and killing opportunities defensively,” skills that would translate to the professional level. </p><p>Eschewing an additional fifth season of eligibility, Zawadzki signed a Homegrown player contract with the Crew through 2023 with two option years, cited as someone who “embodies the club’s values” along with being “a proven winner and a talented player.” His first year was spent mostly with Crew 2 in MLS Next Pro, helping lead the reserves to the regular season and playoff titles while adjusting to the “speed of play and physicality” of the professional game. He enjoyed a brief run with the first team over the summer, featuring in five consecutive matches and netting his first goal, a one-time drive from outside of the box, to open proceedings in a 2-1 victory over Trillium Cup rivals Toronto FC. </p><div> <blockquote> <p lang="en">HOW'S THAT FOR YOUR FIRST MLS GOAL?!#Crew96 | 1-0 pic.twitter.com/nXMKOLLY6v— The Crew (@ColumbusCrew) June 29, 2022 </p></blockquote>

</div> <p>Zawadzki began 2023 as a back-up option under a new manager (who noted that the midfielder-defender was “too nice”), mainly coming off the bench. However, he eventually picked up starts and made 42 total appearances, adding four goals. During the Crew’s run to the MLS Cup, his role returned to providing substitute minutes. As expected, the club exercised the option on his contract for next season. </p><p>An in-season switch from defensive midfielder to centre-back was unexpected. “It was a bit of a shock in the moment,” said Zawadzki. “With the ball, I feel really comfortable. It’s kind of given me more time on the ball, [to] face forward and look at everything in front of me. It’s kind of the defensive side of things where I needed a lot of communication from guys around me to help me… In center midfielder, you don’t always have to step the line and kind of clear the space. I think that’s the biggest [difference] that I’ve seen so far.” </p><p>At the international level, Zawadzki competed with the United States in the U-19 and U-20 groups. He earned his first senior call-up during the most recent January camp and went the full 90 minutes in the 1-0 loss to Slovenia. His performance drew mixed reviews, with **MLSSoccer.com **describing him as “generally composed on the ball,” “overcoming one sloppy giveaway early on,” and being “left out to dry” on the goal while potentially in a position to “have done a bit more to close down” the scorer, Nejc Gradišar. </p><div> <blockquote> <p lang="pl">SEAN ZAWADZKI MAGIC pic.twitter.com/YF3l7sjg89— The Crew (@ColumbusCrew) July 9, 2023 </p></blockquote>

</div> <p>“I think last year was a decent year for me,” Zawadzi told the Massive Report. “I think I took another step up from where I was the year before. I was lucky enough to be recognized by the coaching staff here to get this opportunity… Coming in here, you kind of get a whole new glimpse of everything, too, with Gregg [Berhalter] and the staff… It’s different for me. It’s kind of learning a whole new system in a way… [My goal is] to continue to be in the outlook of things here in camp, if it’s [the CONCACAF] Gold Cup, whatever it is, whenever the opportunity presents itself to come in and do what I’m capable of, and I think I’m capable of being here.” </p><p>A versatile midfielder and defender, Zawadzki is praised as being “incredibly durable” and “an efficient passer” with a “great motor.” Coaches note his abilities on the ball and keen positional sense as well as being strong in the air, although his aerial duels would need to improve in the event of a full-time switch to the back line. As expected from a Crew player, he completes a high number of passes from short and medium distances with a respectable accuracy while also registering several tackles and interceptions per match. </p><div> <blockquote> <p lang="en">Sean loves a header at the south end of the stadium #Crew96 ✘ @zawadzki_sean pic.twitter.com/FXakuctPVI— The Crew (@ColumbusCrew) June 1, 2023 </p></blockquote>

</div> <p>Zawadzki enjoyed two firsts in the new year by earning an invitation to the national team and making his debut. While the match against Slovenia wasn’t the ideal performance, he didn’t look out of place at the international level. The next challenge is keeping a position in the starting lineup for the defending champion Crew and continuing to develop. There are several upcoming competitions for the USMNT, which should provide ample opportunity for several players to remain connected to the program.

</p>

<figure>

<figcaption>Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images</figcaption> </figure>

He moves to the Premier League for the rest of the season. <p>Gio Reyna is headed to England. The 21-year-old midfielder completed a loan move to Nottingham Forest yesterday, joining the Reds for the rest of the season. </p><p>Reyna had been in discussions with several teams racing to sign him via loan or transfer. However, Forest won the battle to sign the dynamic USMNT player, who - for now, at least - joins fellow USMNT teammates Matt Turner and Ethan Horvath at the club. </p><p>This is a short term loan for the rest of the season for the Premier League club. Before the move was made official, Reyna signed a contract extension with Borussia Dortmund until 2026, and the loan does not come with an option to make it a permanent transfer. </p><div> <blockquote> <p lang="en">Gio Reyna has extended his contract until June 30th, 2026, and will be loaned to English club Nottingham Forest until the end of the current season. The loan does not have an option to buy.

Best of luck, Gio! pic.twitter.com/vhZUGbsOXB— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) January 31, 2024 </p></blockquote>

</div> <p>Reyna has struggled for playing time with Dortmund this year, in part due to an injury that kept him out of the lineup for the first 5 weeks of the Bundesliga season. He has 14 appearances across all competitions this year for the Black &amp; Yellow, and he has yet to log a goal or assist. He did have 3 goals and 2 assists for the USMNT in 2023, despite being injured for much of the year. </p><p>Reyna will wear #20 for Forest, and he will be called upon to get to work quickly. The Reds are currently in 16th place in the Premier League with 20 points, just 2 points above the relegation line. He will be asked to produce some goals to help Forest avoid the drop at the end of the season. </p><div> <blockquote> <p lang="en">Ready to get to work pic.twitter.com/ZTdz4X4Kez— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) January 31, 2024 </p></blockquote>

</div> <p>USMNT fans will hope that the loan will give Reyna more playing time to help keep him in shape for the Concacaf Nations League Finals and this summer’s Copa América. Reyna has only logged more than 45 minutes in a match once for Dortmund this season. He will also need to remain healthy if Forest wants to remain in the Premier League next season. </p><div> <blockquote> <p lang="en">Gio is a Red ❤️‍ pic.twitter.com/K0P4WnRGqc— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) January 31, 2024 </p></blockquote>

</div> <p>Hit the comments to discuss Gio Reyna’s loan move.

</p>

<figure>

<figcaption>Photo credit should read TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images</figcaption> </figure>

As we begin Black History Month, the hope is that we can continue the journey of learning about this important history. <p>Today is February 1st, which marks the beginning of Black History Month in America. It’s where we as a nation stop to celebrate the achievements that Black people have made over the course of our history and the many things they have provided to the United States and the world. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on the many hardships that Black people have faced throughout our history and that they continue to endure today. </p><p>The soccer world is no different. American soccer history is full of Black players, coaches, and other contributors that have helped shape how we view our soccer. From the very first Black soccer players, the Watson brothers, to players currently on the USWNT or USMNT like Sophia Smith, Jaedyn Shaw, or Tyler Adams, that are the present and future of our teams. </p><p>Back in December, I had the high privilege of presenting for the Society of American Soccer History, teaching the many spectators that Black American soccer history is American soccer history. Our history is shaped by the many contributions that Black soccer players have made and the lessons that they have bestowed upon us are ones that we should continue to hold high when we think about the history of the beautiful game in this country. </p><div><div></div></div> <p>So, as we do every February, we bring some of those stories to the forefront. We don’t just focus on the ones that we may not know, but also the ones we do. Because in every story or moment, there’s a lesson to be learned if you seek that knowledge. And my hope is that this month, everyone takes some time every single day to read up on a story from our Black History Month hub, which will be pinned to the front page. Listen to podcasts from some of the prominent Black soccer journalists, as they’re focusing on some of these stories as well as doing the work to highlight the Black soccer players that will be the future core of our national teams. I hope to feature some more of these stories both here and on the USA Soccercast throughout the month. </p><p>The journey of knowledge that I embarked on 6 years ago continues, and as always, I invite you to join me in that journey. The best way for us to improve our soccer is to learn and re-learn the history that brought us to this point, to recognize the hardships that people of color continue to endure in the sport, and to have the hard conversations with each other and think deeply about the changes that need to happen. Most importantly, we have to show the courage necessary to stand up against those acts and actors that seek to impede our progress. Only then can our soccer nation unite under the banner of the diversity that defines us. </p><p>——- </p><p>For more Black History Month stories, check out our Black History Month hub. We will be bringing stories throughout the month to highlight some of the biggest moments in Black American and world soccer history. </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>

</p>

<figure>

<figcaption>Photo by Marvin Ibo Guengoer - GES Sportfoto/Getty Images</figcaption> </figure>

If Gio Reyna wants to leave Dortmund, he’ll want to secure a move before their game against Heidenheim on Friday. <p>Midweek USMNT action is here. Let’s get into it! </p><h2>Monday</h2>

<li> Al Hilal vs Inter Miami, 1p on MLS Season Pass: Benja Cremaschi, Drake Callender, Julian Gressel, DeAndre Yedlin, Noah Allen, and Inter Miami have a preseason friendly against Al Hilal (who are without Neymar due to injury) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. </li><li> Jong Ajax vs Dordrecht, 2p: Korede Osundina and Dordrecht visit Ajax’s reserves in the Eerste Divisie.

<h2>Tuesday</h2>

</li><li> Nottingham Forest vs Arsenal, 2:30p on Peacock: Matt Turner and Forest host the Gunners in Premier League action. </li><li> Fulham** vs Everton, 2:45p on Peacock**: Antonee Robinson, Tim Ream, and Fulham welcome Everton to Craven Cottage in another Premier League match. </li><li> Crystal Palace vs Sheffield United, 3p on Peacock: Chris Richards and Palace host Auston Trusty and Sheffield United in the Premier League.

<p>Also in action:

</p></li><li> Vancouver Whitecaps vs Haugesund, 8a**: Brian White and the Whitecaps have a preseason friendly in Spain against Norway first-division club Haugesund.**

</li><li> Westerlo vs Cercle Brugge, 2:30p**: Bryan Reynolds, Griffin Yow, and Westerlo meet Cercle Brugge in Belgium’s first division.**

</li><li> St, Pauli vs Fortuna Düsseldorf, 2:45p on ESPN+: Manager Fabian Hürzeler are still undefeated atop the 2. Bundesliga table with 10 wins and 9 draws. This DFB Pokal quarterfinal features another 2. Bundesliga side, Düsseldorf, who currently sit 5th.

</li><li> Coventry vs Bristol City, 2:45p**: Haji Wright and Coventry host Bristol City in the Championship.**

</li><li> Huracán vs Talleres, 5:15p on Paramount+, Fanatiz, AFA Play**: Alan Soñora Huracán play against his brother Joel’s old team, Talleres, in the Copa de la Liga Profesional.**

</li><li> Chivas vs Toluca, 10:05p on UNIVERSO, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo, Fubo**: Cade Cowell and Chivas host Toluca in Liga MX.**

<h2>Wednesday</h2>

</li><li> OH Leuven vs Genk, 12:45p: Mark McKenzie and Genk visit Leuven in Belgium’s top tier. </li><li> Charleroi vs Eupen, 12:45p: Gaga Slonina and Eupen meet Charleroi, also in the Belgian first division. </li><li> Standard Liège vs Antwerp, 3p on ESPN+: Sam Vines has left Antwerp to return to the Colorado Rapids in MLS, but Marlon Fossey is still playing in Belgium’s first tier with Standard.

<h2>Thursday</h2>

</li><li> Al Nassr vs Inter Miami, 1p on MLS Season Pass: Benja Cremaschi, Drake Callender, Julian Gressel, DeAndre Yedlin, Noah Allen, and Inter Miami play another preseason friendly in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This time they face an Al Nassr side that features Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, Marcelo Brozović, and Aymeric Laporte. Benja Cresmaschi just underwent surgery for a sports hernia, so he will not appear in this match. </li><li> West Ham vs Bournemouth, 2:30p on Peacock: Tyler Adams is not expected to play for Bournemouth in this Premier League match, still out injured. </li><li> St. Truiden vs Gent, 2:30p: Kahveh Zahiroleslam and St. Truiden meet Gent in Belgium’s top tier.

<h2>Friday</h2> </li><li> Heidenheim vs Borussia Dortmund, 2:30p on ESPN+: If Gio Reyna is going to find a new club, he will need to do so quickly, as most of the top European leagues’ transfer windows will be closing or already closed by the time Dortmund meet Lennard Maloney and Heidenheim in the Bundesliga.

<p>Also in action:

</p></li><li> LASK Linz vs RB Salzburg, 12p**: George Bello and LASK meet heavyweights Salzburg in Austria’s cup quarterfinal.**

</li><li> Dordrecht vs Groningen, 2p**: Korede Osundina and Dordrecht face Ricardo Pepi’s old club Groningen in the Eerste Divisie.**

</li><li> TOP Oss vs ADO Den Haag, 2p**: Justin Che and Den Haag travel to meet TOP Oss in the Eerste Divisie.**

</li><li> Palermo vs Bari, 2:30p**: Kristoffer Lund and Palermo host Bari in Serie B.**

<p>That’s it! Did I miss anything that matters? Let me know in the comments below. Let’s see who impresses this week! </p><p>

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