Murcia, Spain, September 28 (BUS): The United States drew 0-0 with Saudi Arabia in Murcia, Spain, as they once again struggled to create chances in the last friendly match before the World Cup.
The pressure was on the United States after the unfortunate 2-0 defeat to Japan in the penultimate warm-up when they failed to score a shot on target and left fans with much to worry about ahead of the finals in Qatar as they failed to break. down the Saudis.
Two great saves from Matt Turner kept a low shot in the first minute from Sultan Al-Ghanam and a shot in the 70th minute from Haitham Asiri.
But the performance left little cause for optimism as the Americans prepare to return to the World Cup stage four years after failing to qualify.
With only two shots on target, the lackluster US side created few chances and the departure of midfielder Giovanni Reina in the 30th minute as a precaution was a huge blow.
Muhammad Al-Rubaie saved Weston McKinney’s shot from outside the penalty area in the ninth minute, while striker Jesus Ferreira missed a great opportunity to score when he hit the Saudi goalkeeper directly.
“I can’t blame the effort but we need to keep improving,” USA coach Greg Berhalter said. “It’s tough times – people are worried about being on the list or not…the confidence isn’t there yet but we’ll get there.”
The United States will play Group B with England, Iran and Wales in the tournament, which begins on November 20. Berhalter is expected to announce his final World Cup squad on November 9.
Saudi Arabia faces Group C rivals Argentina, Mexico and Poland in Qatar.