DALLAS — The United States back line has a difficult task this summer.
The Copa America Centenario, which sees the U.S. and five fellow CONCACAF nations along with each CONMEBOL member square off, is full of attacking talent. But the American defenders say they're eager to face the challenge of shutting those players down.
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"We're going to be going up against some of the best attackers in the world. That's why this tournament is so special and such a big deal, especially since it's going to be played here in America," center back Matt Besler said. "As a defender, you look forward to these opportunities. It's a big challenge, but you want to see how you stack up against the best players in the world. At the same time, it's definitely a team effort when you face some of these guys."
The Americans first face Colombia, whose attackers include Real Madrid's James Rodriguez and Milan's Carlos Bacca. Up next comes Costa Rica. Arsenal forward Joel Campbell and Sporting of Lisbon second striker Bryan Ruiz spearheads the Ticos' attack. Besler and Co. might close with a bit of a reprieve against defense-minded Paraguay, though 23-year-old forward Jorge Benitez had a breakout season with Liga MX's Cruz Azul.
The American defense has had standout showings in recent years but struggled with consistency in both performance and personnel. Heading into this summer, several squad members are in good form, which could result in the same unit suiting up for multiple games in the Copa America.
Both DeAndre Yedlin and Geoff Cameron are in camp after playing regularly in the Premier League. They seem to have settled into their positions at right back and center back, respectively, after filling different roles for both club and country.
"I definitely feel more comfortable in the role. Defensively I've grown and obviously the right back position is a defensive position, so that's a good thing," Yedlin said. "I think that also just comes with getting older. I'm maturing as a person and as a player."
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Cameron and Fabian Johnson, who could fill the left back spot, both missed Sunday's 3-1 friendly win against Puerto Rico with minor injuries. They're expected to be fit for the Copa and might play Saturday against Bolivia, the final preparation match ahead of the tournament.
