USMNT Nations League Semifinal vs Panama Preview

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Unfiltered Soccer with Landon Donovan and Tim Howard"

Episode: USMNT Nations League Semifinal vs Panama Preview
Release Date: March 18, 2025

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Introduction

In this episode of Unfiltered Soccer, former US Men’s National Team stars Landon Donovan and Tim Howard dive deep into the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League Semifinals, focusing on the USA’s match against Panama and Canada's face-off against Mexico. The discussion encapsulates roster strategies, player performances, and the logistical challenges faced by the team leading up to the crucial matches.

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Preview of the Nations League Semifinals

Landon and Tim kick off the discussion with palpable excitement about the Nations League, emphasizing the significance of this tournament as a real competition with tangible rewards. Landon shares his enthusiasm, stating, “[00:00]...God, I'm so excited now for this Nations League” and underscores the high stakes involved.

Key Matchups:

• USA vs. Panama: A critical game where the US aims to overcome past defeats against Panama.
• Canada vs. Mexico: An intense rivalry with Mexico always posing a significant challenge.

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Roster Analysis

The duo meticulously breaks down the USMNT roster, analyzing each position and the probable starters for the semifinal match against Panama.

1. Goalkeepers

• Patrick Schulte (Columbus Crew)
• Zach Stefan (Colorado Rapids)
• Matt Turner (Crystal Palace)

Tim’s Take: “[21:45]...the three goalkeepers that are most likely going to go to the World Cup...Zach Stefan or Matt Turner.” Tim expresses skepticism about Schulte’s readiness for a World Cup, citing his limited senior caps.

2. Defenders

• Cameron Carter-Vickers
• Mark McKenzie
• Tim Ream
• Chris Richards
• Marlon Fosu
• Anthony Robinson
• Joe Scally
• Austin Trusty

Tim’s Insights: “[26:53]...Tim Ream has 67 caps and is a reliable choice...” While acknowledging the strength of players like Chris Richards and Anthony Robinson, Tim highlights the importance of chemistry and experience in the backline.

3. Midfielders

• Tyler Adams (Bournemouth)
• Johnny Cardoso (Real Betis)
• Diego Luna (San Diego)
• Weston McKennie
• Gio Reina
• Tanner Testman

Landon’s Observation: “[29:04] Tyler Adams... one of those guys you just can't put data on; he helps you win.” Both hosts agree on Tyler Adams' pivotal role in the midfield, praising his versatility and leadership.

4. Forwards

• Patrick Ajay Jones
• Yunus Musah
• Christian Pulisic
• Josh Sargent
• Timothy Weah
• Brian White

Strategic Forward Play: “[36:28]...strikers are in a class by themselves. You want them to be informed, fit, and hungry.” The hosts emphasize the need for adaptable forwards who can exploit defensive gaps and contribute to both scoring and creating opportunities.

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Travel and Recovery Challenges

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the logistical hurdles the team faces, particularly the impact of players flying in from prior Sunday matches.

Key Points:

• Recovery Time: “[05:33]...it takes your body...72 hours to fully recover.” The tight schedule demands efficient recovery protocols.
• Transatlantic Travel: Players arriving exhausted after long flights struggle to perform optimally on short notice.

Tim’s Perspective: “[07:27]...the process for the players...to really get up to speed physically for that game on Thursday.” Emphasizes the intricate balance between physical readiness and strategic preparation.

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USMNT Strategies and Potential Matchups

Landon and Tim analyze potential outcomes and strategize on the most challenging matchups.

Against Panama:

• Experience and Team Cohesion: “[09:48]...Panama's beat us two of the last three...” Recognizes Panama as a formidable and experienced opponent.
• Psychological Edge: “[11:09]...Panama poses some real problems...they try to bully us...” Discusses the mental toughness required to overcome past defeats.

Potential Finals:

• Canada vs. Mexico Scenario: “[15:18]...Mexico is always the biggest challenge...” While acknowledging Canada’s improvement under Jesse Marsch, Mexico remains the more daunting adversary due to historical rivalries and psychological factors.

Defensive Strategies:

• Back Four Configuration: Tim suggests a formation featuring Anthony Robinson, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, and Joe Scally, emphasizing the importance of a strong and cohesive defense.

Midfield Dynamics:

• Key Players: Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie are highlighted for their critical roles in controlling the game's tempo and facilitating both defensive and offensive plays.

Forwards’ Role:

• Adaptability: Christian Pulisic and Josh Sargent are praised for their ability to adapt to various attacking roles, providing flexibility in offensive strategies.

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Fan Connection: Listener Questions

In the interactive segment, Landon and Tim address questions from listeners, providing personal anecdotes and insights into their experiences with the national team.

Questions Addressed:

1. Most Intimidating Away Game:

   • Landon: “[60:22]...Costa Rica at Suprisa...locker room was strategically right underneath their supporters section...shaking.” Describes the overwhelming atmosphere and hostile environment.
   • Tim: Mentions playing at Azteca and San Pedro Sula, highlighting the intense energy and fan fervor in these venues.

2. Thoughts During the National Anthem:

   • Landon: “[64:22]...immense pride...close my eyes and almost meditate.”
   • Tim: “[65:06]...feeling all-consuming...pride that we felt singing it as loud as we could…”

3. Underrated Performers:

   • Landon: “[68:32]...John O'Brien in 2002.”
   • Tim: Praises Kyle Beckerman’s consistency and leadership during the 2014 World Cup.

Notable Highlights:

• The emotional significance of representing one’s country.
• The impact of hostile environments on player performance.
• Recognition of lesser-known players who have made substantial contributions to the team's success.

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Conclusion

As the Nations League Semifinals approach, Landon Donovan and Tim Howard provide a comprehensive analysis of the US Men’s National Team’s prospects against Panama. They emphasize the importance of strategic roster selection, player readiness, and overcoming psychological barriers. The duo’s expert insights offer listeners a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the team as they strive for success in this pivotal tournament.

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Notable Quotes:

• Landon Donovan on the significance of the tournament: “[00:00] Now it's a real game, Real competition. FIFA competition. Trophy at stake.”
• Tim Howard on roster selection challenges: “[07:27]...it takes your body...72 hours to fully recover.”
• Landon Donovan on Panama’s resilience: “[09:48]...Panama's beat us two of the last three...”

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Stay Connected

Don’t miss out on future episodes where Landon and Tim continue to dissect the USMNT’s journey toward the 2026 World Cup. Subscribe to Unfiltered Soccer on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform, and follow them on social media @UnfilteredSoccer for exclusive content and updates.

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*Presented by Volkswagen and sponsored by AT&T, Unfiltered Soccer remains your go-to source for in-depth analysis and unfiltered conversations about the beautiful game.

Transcript

[Landon Donovan]

Now it's a real game, Real competition. FIFA competition. Trophy at stake. Now it gets real. God, I'm so excited now for this Nathan league. I can't wait for this weekend. Unfiltered soccer with Landon and Tim, presented by Volkswagen. Volkswagen has long been a supporter of soccer in America and has proudly been a partner of U.S. soccer for the past five years.

[Tim Howard]

LD what's happening to my band? How's things with you?

[Landon Donovan]

Yo. We just talked yesterday. It is Tuesday, March 11th. We recorded a pod yesterday, but we are doing a special recording today. When this drops, we will have recorded this six days prior, but just got off. I listened to the press conference with Mauricio Po for the Nations League yesterday. I was really tired because I just finished my Vegas trip today. I feel great. More energy today.

[Tim Howard]

Good.

[Landon Donovan]

What about you?

[Tim Howard]

I'm still sick of. I'm still sick of seeing you, but it's fine.

[Landon Donovan]

I know on.

[Tim Howard]

I was on a. You and I were on a phone call as well earlier today, so it's.

[Landon Donovan]

A bit too much of me. I get it that that happens. That happens.

[Tim Howard]

But I don't mind it. More importantly, I don't think our. I don't think our listeners mind it.

[Landon Donovan]

So. Depends on who you ask. So good. This is going to be a good episode. Fun episode. We're going to preview the Nations League semis and hopefully finals with the US in it. US Plays Panama. Canada plays Mexico. As always, guys, please follow all of our social media. Unfiltered soccer. Subscribe to the show. It helps everybody find us. You can watch on YouTube. Make sure you follow on Apple podcasts and Spotify and rate and review any comments you want to leave, any questions you want to leave. Feedback. Unfiltered Soccer. And we try to get to as many of your questions every week as possible. Lots of good questions.

[Tim Howard]

Lots of good questions before we start.

[Landon Donovan]

Yep.

[Tim Howard]

This episode. What. What T shirt you got on?

[Landon Donovan]

Oh, yeah, I showed you.

[Tim Howard]

For the people. For the people at home.

[Landon Donovan]

See if you can see. This is my. It's hard to say.

[Tim Howard]

American Outlaw.

[Landon Donovan]

American Outlaws shirt.

[Tim Howard]

There we are.

[Landon Donovan]

I'm officially a member, although I think I need to renew.

[Tim Howard]

Is there a certain state chapter that you're just. You're.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, I don't know what chapter it is.

[Tim Howard]

You're not. You don't.

[Landon Donovan]

Oh, 2020. I'm a member. I should probably renew. It's been five years.

[Tim Howard]

Shout out to American Outlaws. I mean, the amount of times that we. We shared a lot of great moments with them in. In stadium moments. It's incredible. Get goosebumps thinking about all of them and the things we did.

[Landon Donovan]

Yep. And I spent. Look, I've been here 10 years now in San Diego, so I spent a lot of time with the Outlaws. Different pubs around town, hanging out, watching games. It's fun. It's fun just to be a fan. So shout out to them. This is going to be a nice few weeks for them here in.

[Tim Howard]

For those people who don't know who they are, they are the official supporters group of the US Men's and women's national teams.

[Landon Donovan]

Who would not know who they are?

[Tim Howard]

I don't know. Listen, I'm. I'm just plugging that just so in case someone's like, who. Who? They're.

[Landon Donovan]

I bet you some of your English fans are like, who the hell is that?

[Tim Howard]

Well, now they know.

[Landon Donovan]

All right, all right. Nations League preview. Tim. So Thursday, 7pm Eastern. It is the early game, I believe. I believe the other game's after it. So 4pm here on the west coast in LA. I may go up for that. Definitely go up for the final if the US Is in it. Camp starts. What's up?

[Tim Howard]

Sidebar. When you go to a national game, you're going to like, you go to la.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

What's your seating arrangement? I know it doesn't. It sounds like a stupid question, but like are you. Are you director's box? Are you like wanting to sit with the people, like where are you?

[Landon Donovan]

So if it's at Galaxy games, it's in the owner's box with Dan Beckerman, who owns the Galaxy and the executives. It's really nice. It's got an outdoor seating area, but it's quiet. It's got food inside so I can bring my kids and they can run around. It's nice. I've never been to Sofi, so I, you know, I'm glad you asked because now maybe someone can reach out and give me a ticket so I don't have to pay 400 bucks for it. I don't know. I hadn't even thought about it.

[Tim Howard]

How's that about it? Question. That's good question. I think last US Game I saw, I was in the. I was in the. In the owners. Well, it was, it was the directors box suite with.

[Landon Donovan]

Where was it?

[Tim Howard]

Kansas City. It was. It was at Child Mercy Park.

[Landon Donovan]

Children's Children's Mercenary Park. Child Mercy.

[Tim Howard]

It's a difference. Yeah. So I was there. But I'm, I'm a man of the.

[Landon Donovan]

People, but so far is big dude.

[Tim Howard]

So I saw this. I was There for the super bowl. It was massive.

[Landon Donovan]

It's so big.

[Tim Howard]

Shocking.

[Landon Donovan]

Okay, so camp starts on Sunday, this coming Sunday the 16th. And an interesting just. I just want to help people understand this. So a lot of guys, I think there are nine players on this roster and we're going to get into the roster in the next segment. Nine of the guys on the roster will be flying in Monday because they have Sunday games. So I just want people to process that. The roster is 23, so 40% of the roster is going to fly Monday, which means if you played Sunday, you are shattered on Monday. Flying all day Tuesdays, you're doing nothing. You get to train Wednesday and then the game's Thursday. So this is a piece of it that people don't understand because if, you know, if you play basketball or hockey, they play every night. Baseball, they play every night. But in soccer, this is a really big deal. So I'm curious and wondering if that went into Pochettino's decisions, but clearly not if you name nine of them.

[Tim Howard]

Well, it's interesting, let's pause there for a second, right? Because what that actually looks like to the outside world, because you and I have lived this, right? It's always like high paid athletes, shut up, you sit in first. All that there, there's a. Sports science has become so massive, data analytics has become so massive in the game, right? So to your point, because I've, I live this for 13 years, you know your game ends on Sunday, right? You've played 90 minutes, as you said, you're shattered. What happens, what happens then is because you're coming from Europe, you are, there's a, there's a, there's a term in soccer or sports, tired and wired. So the night after the game, you're completely drained and exhausted and you go lay in bed and your eyes are like sleep, your body's like, please shut down. And your nervous system so high, you don't sleep that night. Well, you probably get to bed 3:00 most, most of the time. And then you get up and you get, you jump on a flight. Yes, it's first class, amazing flatbeds. But your body has barely had time to start the recovery process from the game. So now you're tight and you're cramped and that's a 10 hour, 11 hour flight. And you get off the flight. So now your sports scientists and the team are basically saying, you're useless to us on Tuesday. We've gotta get you on the grass in your running shoes and we've gotta get you Moving. But by the way, we're already implementing game plan and strategy. You kind of have to be paying attention to that and you have to be on the grass so that the manager can use you. But you're useless. You're going to get, you know, you're basically going to get what would, nor would in a normal week ld Right. You're two days post game on or three days post game. You're basically starting to come back to training. But in this scenario you're match day minus one. Right. So it's a really difficult process for the players coming from Europe to really get up to speed physically for that game on, on Thursday.

[Landon Donovan]

That's right. And, and again, just so people understand just the sports science. So after you play a 90 minute match, it takes your body, give or take a few hours, but 72 hours to fully recover. Right. Now when you throw in transatlantic travel.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

You can add another 24 hours to that. So literally by game time they'll be recovered. So this is a big challenge. Look, all the teams will have players dealing with this. Probably none more than the U.S. maybe Canada. So this is a big deal. Um, but I, I, I referenced the press conference and Mauricio Pochettino spoke about this earlier. But to him this is a really big deal. Right. This is his first opportunity in a real competition to show what the team is made of. And we'll get into the roster and it's clear he valued guys he knows versus guys he doesn't know. Cause he doesn't want to take a chance right now because what we just alluded to, they only have a couple days to prepare. So this is, he said it's a massive opportunity to win a trophy and that is our clear objective. So he's not min heard. Saint Sea is very clear. But there are good teams. Panama, U.S. panama. Panama's beat us two of the last three. Yeah, I know this is a big deal for us.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

And Panama is one of those teams. I think outside of Mexico, we have not played a team more than Panama in the last whatever decade or so. It's a team that always causes us problems. They're always difficult to play against. They will not have the crazy travel that some of our guys will. Our team. I saw this stat today. Our roster has an average of 14 caps in international real competition. So I'm going to repeat that. 14 caps on average in FIFA real competition. So not counting friendlies. So the average player has only stepped on the field 14 times in a real game. Now I don't know the exact number for Panama, but it's way higher than that. Those guys have been together a long time. They are veterans, they are hardened. They know how to play in these games. So if people turn it on and go, oh, it's Panama. This is a walk in the park. Ain't gonna happen. So this is a big moment for our team. We've talked about this, Tim, for a long time outside of the Gold cup in the summer, this is it. For real competition.

[Tim Howard]

This is it. I mean, look, the thing about Panama, which I'll. Which I'll start with, is when in our era, look, us, Mexico and Costa Rica are the best teams traditionally, year on year in concacaf. Why Panama started, you know, Panama started to creep up as number four. And here's why. The U.S. is so dominant. U.S. players, U.S. men's national team players, are physically dominant. So superior to any other country that we play in concacaf. That's it. Now we might get out footballed by Mexico every now and again. Physically and athletically, we are the most dominant. What Panama has done in the last decade is they've matched that. I mean, I've been in the tunnel against, against Panama multiple times and thought we're. We're not going to necessarily be able to beat them physically. And they come in and oftentimes and they know this, they try and they try and bully us because they know they're physically more imposing across the board oftentimes than. Than a lot of our teams. And that's not something we're used to because we're so superior athletically, you know, as, as American footballers, that we never have to worry about ticking that box. And so Panama poses some real problems.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, they're. They're just. I've said this before, when one of these countries beats you in America, the fear factor is gone. And forever and ever and ever, they get excited. They would come, you know, El Salvador, Guatemala. This is the time. This time, you score in the 12th minute and they just tank. They go, oh, man, here we go again. But now Panama's beat us and they've beat us on home soil. So that fear factor is gone, no longer there. And that makes it challenging because they actually believe they're going to come in and win this game. Yeah, I mean, that's going to make it challenging.

[Tim Howard]

They do. And I, and, And for me, since we started this podcast. But trust when I tell you, from today forward, like until the World cup, everything that I say about the U.S. men's National Team is solely for one purpose. Is. Is. Is for them to perform optimally in the World cup, that's all. Like, that doesn't. Nothing else matters. And so when I say they have to beat Panama, it's simply. And I banged this drum. It's simply so that they can get another game on the calendar. Like, I'm not that concerned. Like, I'm not that concerned about, like, I want them to win the concave nation. I, I do, I do. I do, I do. I'm more concerned that they're going to get another game that's meaningful, that means something, that has to. They have to win, that they're put in an uncomfortable situation, which finals are like, that's what I'm concerned about because of our lack of World cup qualifying. And I keep saying that, but they have to beat Panama simply just to get to that next game. Look, I want them to win the final, but ultimately they lose in the final, I still feel like there's value. There's value in it. Right? Yeah. Okay.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. Yeah. So. And by the way, just this, this tournament's new. It's novel for you and me. We never played in it, right? This, this Nations League, we have won all three editions so far, which is. Is nothing to scoff at. I mean, it's a, it's a version of a Gold cup, essentially. Right. And for you and me, the Gold cup, so many incredible memories, right? Lifting that trophy and playing in those games. So this is meaningful for the players now, too. I think when it first started, everyone was kind of like, ah, another FIFA competition. Now they're starting to gain meaning behind, like, the people will be there, they will show up. This is another important. It's become an important tournament. And FIFA's done a good job of tying Nations League into, you know, qualifying or qualifying for the Gold Cup. They've made it meaningful. So it's not just another game. So everybody understands that this is, this is a big deal. And again, the biggest thing is, I agree with you, Tim. Like, I want them to play well. I want them to win. Fans should be most excited about the opportunity to play games that matter before the Gold cup and then before the World cup. And individuals. And we'll get into this in the roster, have a big, big opportunity.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

There are some who are in, in the January camp who now got called here, and then if they do well here, they get called into the Gold Cup. And if you do well and play for your MLS team, guess what? You're playing in a World cup in front of your home fans.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. You're earning your stripes. And I think that that's how it should be. You know, that's kind of how U.S. men's National Team has been. Has been, you know, certainly from the. From the psychological standpoint, structured over the last two dec. And you have to earn that, and I think it's important. And Pochettino, again, because of the delicate balance of naming the roster and roster construction, he's had to piece together some veterans with some guys who he has to give a chance to because like you said, there's just not enough games for him to get a real good look at certain guys. But ultimately, when you pull that shirt on and there's something on the line and there's something at stake, it means more. And that's. And that's what these two games, for me, hopefully two games are about.

[Landon Donovan]

So let's. I'm not going to assume anything, but let's say we get through Panama. In your opinion, Canada, Mexico. Who's the more difficult matchup if we get there? And I have a clear choice, but you tell me.

[Tim Howard]

Okay, I watched the game in Kansas City that I said I was at. It was US Canada. It was that game. And I love what Jesse Marsh is doing. I think. I think so highly of him as a manager, as a person, and I love what he's doing with that generation of Canadian players. I still think we're the better team, but Mexico, for me is always. It's. It will forever and always be the biggest challenge psychologically and on the grass for the U.S. men's National Team. There's just. The rivalry has. Has happened that you always. Even when. Even when the tide turns. So you're always trying to beat the big bully. Right. In our case. And then when we turn that tide and we begin to be the dominant team in the region, you're so worried about them coming to a boil again and surpassing you that it still creates a fear factor inside you that. That can't be replicated at any other point in the region. So for me, you know, the. Probably would like to see Canada because I think we can beat him, but, you know. Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

Here. So I think Canada are the better roster right now, better team. The challenge is they're playing in LA against Mexico, and that stadium will be, you know, the US Plays, we play first. So my guess is after the game, it's going to empty out with US fans gone, and it's going to be 98% Mexican fans. And I just think that is a really tall task for this Canadian team. And by the way, if they do it once, then they're gonna have to do it again with a sold out American crowd in the final. And that's just really tough. I think Mexico sneaks by. I don't think they're the better team. I think Mexico sneaks by and then everyone gets what they want. Everyone wants to see us Mexico. And that would be the final to see.

[Tim Howard]

I think that's gonna be a fun. I tell you who didn't get what they want. The security guards. Who. Who organized this to get a double header?

[Landon Donovan]

What do you mean who organized? I could tell you who organized it.

[Tim Howard]

They get a double header with US Fans that are gonna leave as the.

[Landon Donovan]

Mexicans are walking in with different turnstiles.

[Tim Howard]

Like who? Not sure. That's an amazing idea, actually.

[Landon Donovan]

Maybe they sold. We had to buy tickets for both.

[Tim Howard]

I think that's probably right, but also not an amazing idea.

[Landon Donovan]

No. So not. Well, by the way, tickets are going to be switching hands as people leave. Here you go. Give me 300 bucks. Here you go.

[Tim Howard]

That's something. I want to make sure we stay across because that's an interesting concept.

[Landon Donovan]

It's gonna be. It's gonna be interesting to see. I believe it's on cbs. I believe it's on cbs. So we will tune in. Let's take a break, Tim. I want to really dig into the roster. It just came out this morning. We saw the roster. I listened to the presser. We talked about it a lot. So we got lots and lots of comments, lots of interesting news on the roster. Let's take a break. We'll be right back. Talking U.S. men's National Team, CONCACAF Nations League, right here on Unfiltered Soccer with Landon and Tim, presented by Volkswagen. Stick around.

[Tim Howard]

The Unfiltered Soccer podcast is brought to you by Volkswagen, the presenting partner of U.S. soccer.

[Landon Donovan]

Since 2019, Volkswagen has been on a mission to drive the future of the sport we all love. And VW is committed to making it more diverse, inclusive and accessible for everyone.

[Tim Howard]

They're not just talking about it, they're out there doing it. VW's partnerships, programs and soccer clinics are unlocking opportunities for the next generation of players and fans.

[Landon Donovan]

As a longtime friend of Volkswagen, I've seen firsthand how VW are connecting with fans and driving the sport forward. From working with them on clinics to being part of their incredible campaigns, it's clear U.S. soccer is truly powered by the people.

[Tim Howard]

Thank you to VW for being our presenting partner. Learn more about how VW are supporting us [e-mail]. there's a lot in life that feels like it should be guaranteed that just isn't your team winning the championship, the weather being good on game day, your friends remembering who has the tickets. Some days you're just a goal scoring machine.

[Landon Donovan]

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[Tim Howard]

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[Landon Donovan]

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[Tim Howard]

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[Landon Donovan]

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[Tim Howard]

Right. LD the time that everyone's been waiting for is the roster announcement and the dissection of that roster. It's always what excites us as, as commentators and fans, right? Like, like before the game, it's like, who's going to be in. Who can we look forward to seeing? What's the manager thinking? So really, really interested in some of these takes on what this roster looks like. And I, you know, having, having read through it very recently over the last 24 hours, it's kind of like some interesting omissions and additions, which I guess it's probably not surprising for any sort of roster, but this one in particular.

[Landon Donovan]

Well, I think what's interesting is the January Kemp roster. Everybody was like, okay, which kind of mostly MLS guys is Mauricio Pino interested in just as a starting point? So then we get past that and it's like, okay, now it's a real game, real competition, FIFA competition, trophy at stake. Now. Now it gets real, right? And so let's walk through this, Tim, and we'll just talk through all of these. Let's start with the goalkeepers. So, Schulte, Patrick Schulte from Columbus, Zach Stefan from The Rapids and Matt with now Crystal Palace.

[Tim Howard]

So right here. Yeah, so. So here's the, here's the long and the short of the goalkeeping debate. These are the three goalkeepers that are most likely going to go to the World Cup. Okay?

[Landon Donovan]

You think so?

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, I think so. There's always shocks and surprises, but this is who I think the only person that will play is either Zach Stefan or Matt Turner. Patrick Schulte can't, he can't play at a World Cup. And again, remember, I keep projecting to the World cup. He can't play a World cup in the summer of 2026 because right now he has three caps, senior caps for the men's national team. Okay. In between there at best, at best he'd get that number three to 13. That's in the, that's in the most amazing world ever, right? He won't, he won't be able to have enough experience to play in a World Cup. I like him. I covered him in the Olympics. Obviously plays really well for a very good MLS side and Columbus Crew. There's not enough, there's not enough hours in the day for him to get enough experience. Zach Stefan and Matt Turner. Zack Stefan is the number one for me right now. Pochettino has said it's an open race. It's not an open race. Zack Stefan right now is the number one. Matt Turner after August can put him, put his name back in the running for that. And it's simply going to come down. They have to perform when given the opportunity. When they pull on the US Shirt, no doubt it's going to happen over the course of the 12 months, well, 10 months between August and June or whatever, whenever the World cup kicks off. And where does Matt Turner go? He has to make a strategic move in the summer away from Crystal palace to be a number one. And what I would say is he's left Arsenal. Okay? So here's why his, his gets interesting. He left Arsenal, right, to go to Forest to be the number one. They hedged their bets and made him like one one and a half right? And then when the team didn't perform well, he lost his spot. Happens. He then had a couple different moves where he probably would have been the out and out starter. And I think one of those moves was to Germany. Forrest blocked it. So he ends up going to Palace. He's out and out. The number two at Palace. His move in August, if he wants to play in the World cup, has to be a nailed on starter. When I left, when I left Manchester United I went to Everton. I was guaranteed basically to beat a starter. My contract was structured, won't get into it enough time was basically structured that I was going to be the starting goalkeeper. So that was nailed on. And he has to make a move in August that's going to basically say I'm so far the number one at this new club, that the other guy is just there to like carry my boots if he wants to.

[Landon Donovan]

And do you think, can he do that at a Premier League club? Is there a club that he could go to or he would be the.

[Tim Howard]

Nailed on number one in the Premier League? It's a copycat league. Everyone does the same thing. So no one, I don't know if anyone's going to sign him to be the out and out number one in the Premier League because they're. Because they're going to. Whatever team, it is going to go well. Forest didn't think so.

[Landon Donovan]

Right.

[Tim Howard]

Palace didn't think so. Well, they don't think for themselves very often. So I tend to think it will be away from England, but could be the championship, you know, could be a team in the championship. So possibly.

[Landon Donovan]

Can I ask you a quick question about Schulte before we move on? Why then if that's the case, one, do you think he is the third best goalkeeper that America has? And if not, why would they bring him? Right. Like, why would you say, why bring him to a World Cup? Because, knock on wood, something crazy happens and he's playing. You have to think someone has more experience, is more prepared for that.

[Tim Howard]

Well, here's what I would say. Yeah, I think we've done that down the years. Tony Miola went to the 2002 World cup with you guys, right? Yeah, basically. Because.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, but he had played in. He had played in 94, didn't he?

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, no, no, I'm saying. Yeah. And so you bring a senior. Go goalkeeper. We've had Marcus Hanneman down the years through our World Cups. Right. Senior goalkeeper was the last in 2022. I think Shawn Johnson went.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, I think. Is that right?

[Tim Howard]

Like a senior. I think. I think your senior goalkeeper to play that spot is too old. It's Brad Guzan. Right, Right. I think Brad. I think Brad's slightly too old. He won't mind me saying that. He actually will, but I don't care. Brad, you're old. But. And you know, I. So I don't know if there's one there. So I think you have. I don't. Yeah, that's fair. What'd you say? Since 98, 94. We've had that. Right. We've had a veteran presence. So look, I just don't think. Yeah, and to answer your question, I do think he's the third best goalkeeper. You know, certainly, you know, you factor into that potential and so forth. And look, the bottom line is the other part of that argument is our research team can probably do this, but name me a time in a World cup where the third goalkeeper on the roster is played. I just. That scenario doesn't work.

[Landon Donovan]

That scenario you just have to prepare for. Yeah, okay, well, we'll see. We'll. We'll follow it and see how it goes. Okay. Center backs Cameron Carter, Vickers, Mark McKenzie, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Marlon Fosse finds his way on the roster. Anthony Jedi Robinson and Joe Scally. Oh, and Austin Trusty. Sorry, my guess is pretty strong guess is Robinson and Scally are the outside backs. Chris Richards is going to play. And then who is going to pair with Chris Richards?

[Tim Howard]

If you're asking me right this second. Okay. I think the back four for Panama is Anthony Robinson. Left, left side, center back Tim Ream, right side, center back Chris Richards and right fullback Joe Scott.

[Landon Donovan]

Here's why.

[Tim Howard]

Well, well, for the not we have the numbers in front of us. 67 caps for Tim Ream. Like this is a, this is. You have to win. We keep talking about you have to win. I think if, you know, if Cameron Carter, Vickers and Austin Trust are listening to this, they're going to feel hard done by because like I said, they play together at Celtic we've talked about on the podcast. I want to see them play together for the US they have a really good partnership. Look, it's going to, it's going to be one from three. Cameron Carter, Vickers Austin trustee or Tim Reem play in one of those center back spots. But I definitely think it's Chris Richards is nailed on.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, you know what, so, so just to your point. So obviously Tim Riemann and Jedi Robinson have played together a lot. So there's a connection there. Also, Tim Ream is left footed and he's really good on the ball. Right. So depending on how Mauricio Pochettino thinks, at least the first game, we're just talking about the first game is going to play out. That can make a lot of sense. Right. If you're going to dominate the ball, then Tim Ream's a good guy to have because he's a really good. He's the best passer of all them.

[Tim Howard]

So.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, okay.

[Tim Howard]

I mean, I think so. I think So I, you know, the. I think if it's not Tim room, it's probably Cameron, Carter, Vickers, but again, we'll see. But I. I think that back four that I. That I said will probably be the ones that end up playing the first game, but overall, look, it's not. It's not. Would you say it's an incredibly strong defensive unit? I'm not sure.

[Landon Donovan]

No, no, no. Serginio Des did not get called in. He's just coming back from injuries, so that would have certainly strengthened it. But we'll see. I mean, Chris Richards playing at a really, really high level, so maybe it's enough to get by both games. Okay, let's move into the midfield. Tyler Adams, welcome back. Thank God. Really happy for him. Bournemouth player of the month. Playing that team is playing so well, and he is just one of those guys, Tim, you. You almost can't put data on it or stats on it. He just helps you win. He just helps you win. So. Welcome back. Johnny Cardoso from Betis. Diego Luna gets a call back in Weston McKenney. Gio Reina called in, and Tanner Testman, who's been playing and playing well now at Leon.

[Tim Howard]

I like. I do really like Tyler Testman. Get to him a second. Look, let me. Let me just say Tyler Adams is brilliant. And I often. I often talk about players, football players having that dog in them, and they asked me what that means, and it's just like that. That I'm gonna. I'm gonna take your head off. I don't care. And I was watching this weekend, and he was. He was effing somebody off after a foul, and I just thought, this kid's brilliant. He's absolutely brilliant. Diego Luna is an interesting one. You know, three caps, still young. You had him right in San Diego.

[Landon Donovan]

Didn't have him, but played against him.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

So he. It's interesting. So this is what I was thinking about with Diego. So we talked about earlier guys who were in January camp, and there were six of them. Diego was one of them. And if you remember, in January camp, he broke his nose, stayed in the game, made a play. And I want to remind people, Pochettino's Uruguayan, Argentinian, they love that dude, because you talk about dogs and like, Argentinians and Uruguayans, they are nasty.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

And they have a lot of that in them. And when I. I bet you when he saw that, it was like, oh, I like that. That's my guy. And Diego Luna is. He grew up in a tough, tough neighborhood, and he's a tough Kid. And so I bet he said, look, even if he doesn't step on the field, I want to show everybody else in this camp that you do that and you got a chance here.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, of course.

[Landon Donovan]

And he is a good player, but, I mean, yeah, he played well when he performed. Mauricio Pachtino was asked about Tyler Adams today on the call, and the phrasing of the question was, you know, with Tyler there, are you going to play Weston Higher. Are you going to. Who else are you going to play? You have Eunice Musa listed as a forward in this roster. Are you going to play Eunice Musa there? Da, da, da. And he said, well, it's an open competition and there's a lot of guys who have played. I mean, he basically said Tyler's is not guaranteed to start. Remember, he's never seen Tyler. And my takeaway from watching the press conference was he really values people he has seen in the flesh and can trust. He really does. And so Tyler's gonna have to prove it to him. Now, was that just bluff? I don't know. But I'm trying to figure out how this midfield is going to get put together. Right. Because he also really likes Tanner Testman and he trusts him. He does. He's seen him in the flesh and he's played. So you got to think Wes is playing. You would guess Tyler's playing.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

And then after that, what does it look like?

[Tim Howard]

Don't really listen to a lot of what managers say in press conferences. It's good, it's good. But, but, but you know why?

[Landon Donovan]

I do. Tim, let me just stop you there. You know, I listen to him. Why? I take it more at face value because English isn't his first language and so it's hard. I remember speaking Spanish or speaking German, and you can't really skirt around things or be clever when it's not your first language. Yeah, Right. And so he. I give him so much credit because he just takes all the questions. He knows his English isn't perfect, but he answers them and he's honest about it and he's trying clearly to. To say what he means. But I understand what you're saying.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, no disrespect to the managers. I just. I've heard enough of them to know. I know, you know, you know the old days when. When Sir Alex Ferguson called me on summer holidays and said, you know, he's signing Edwin van der Sar and just keep my head down and keep working and I can win a spot. No, I can't. I can't I need to leave football.

[Landon Donovan]

Club, watch him play.

[Tim Howard]

So anyway, look, I think, I think Tyler Adams, I don't think you could keep Tyler Adams off a football pitch for the U.S. men's National Team if you tried. He's just that good. He's ultimately going to. I know he hasn't seen him. He's going to win him over like Tyler's won every other coach over in the world. Weston, of course, I like Tenant Testament. I like him a lot. I think he's. I think he's.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, me too.

[Tim Howard]

I think he's smooth on the ball. He's. I think he's got a good body, he runs well. You know, can he, can he translate that consistently to the next level? I think he can, but obviously that's a challenge in NG Arena. You know, that's a player he hasn't seen either. And I think this is going to be a really good opportunity for Gio to get in there and shine, you.

[Landon Donovan]

Know, massive, massive opportunity. Just real quick, let's. We'll get into Gio, but three of these guys, I just realized, are playing Sunday.

[Tim Howard]

Yep.

[Landon Donovan]

So that is what we were just talking about in the first segment, the travel. I mean, they might not even recover well, so that might make his decision for him. So Johnny Cardoso, Weston plays Sunday and so does Tanner Testman.

[Tim Howard]

I think that's to your point. And when we're, you know, obviously talking to. So many of our followers on unfiltered soccer are massive, massive US Men's national team fans.

[Landon Donovan]

Right.

[Tim Howard]

And so I think we have to be mindful that this roster construction isn't about who are my best 22 players and stick them on there. Right. We wish that was the case. It's about balance and who's good for the team and who has a good attitude and has enough maturity. Who plays on Sunday, like maybe a defender playing on Sunday isn't as vital as a attacking midfielder playing on Sunday. Right. So. Because they're probably not going to log as many high intensity sprints, that type of thing. And so you have to be mindful of that when you want to construct a roster. And two, pick the starting 11. So it's not always as simple as what's on the piece of paper.

[Landon Donovan]

And so to that point. So he was asked a lot about Gio.

[Tim Howard]

Right.

[Landon Donovan]

When you leave other people up, Brandon Aronson was left off, Alejandro Zendejas left off. Guys who are playing consistently, performing well. So why do you bring Gio who hasn't played? And he said, I Mean, he basically said it, and I'm also reading between the lines, but he is not going to get to see Geo in the Gold Cup.

[Tim Howard]

Right.

[Landon Donovan]

So Gio's playing in the Club World cup with Dortmund potentially, unless he moves. Right. But in his calculation, he didn't see him in January camp. He's not planning on seeing him in the Gold Cup. He needs to see him. Right. Like this is the only real game competition he can see him. So to that point, don't be surprised if you see Gio on the field getting minutes, even though he's not playing like every. Basically everyone else on the roster. Don't be surprised because he needs to see him. And so that, to your point, this roster was not made purely 100% on the best soccer decision for this game. He is thinking, just like we're talking about big picture. And, and that's why Gio's there.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, totally. And, and, and said it. You know, Gio's in a precarious position, right. Because he doesn't get a ton of time. If he, he stays at Dortmund, goes to the FIFA Club World cup, then he's out with. Out of the plans for, for the summer. And then, and by the way, and if he moves, which I tend to think he might move, then he needs to impress his new club. He needs.

[Landon Donovan]

He might also be out. Right, Right.

[Tim Howard]

And he might. They're going to mandate what his summer looks like.

[Landon Donovan]

Well, they're going to have preseason, which is best for him probably to be in preseason. And. Yeah, so it's. Yeah, it's a, It's a tough situation.

[Tim Howard]

But big moments, big opportunity for him to. Huge. If he can play. Let's say he plays 90 minutes over the course of, you know, in both games. Right. Like two times. 90 minutes is a really good indicator.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

You know, certainly, certainly for a player that you haven't seen.

[Landon Donovan]

So let's move on to the strikers, the forwards, some interesting ones. So Patrick Ajuman made it. Congrats to him. He had a fantastic January camp. And we said it. There's going to be a player or two in that camp or coming in the coming January who's going to make the World cup roster. Keep your eye on him. Yunus Moussa here, listed as a forward. Pochettino was also asked, why did you list him as a forward? And he basically said, I think what he was saying is, I didn't do it. Someone else did it. Like, he's like. But he said, I could see him play as a 10. He said, don't pay attention to that. Whatever it is.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

Christian, Josh Sargent, Timothy Weah and Brian White from Vancouver Whitecaps, who also was in January camp, so congrats to him. So not a ton of surprises there. The only one is Brandon Vasquez. Now, wasn't in January camp. Not getting called in here. We talked about making a move, but you got to play and you got to perform. He's no goals now in three games for Austin.

[Tim Howard]

Right.

[Landon Donovan]

It's a big miss for him because he needs these chances if he wants to play in a World Cup.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. And they're dwindling. One, they're scarce and two, they're dwindling. So. Yeah. And again, in the grand scheme of things, going. Going scoreless in your first three games isn't the worst thing in the world, but for him, it's not ideal. It's time. I like the Forge. Ajamang. Fantastic. Really good. January camp offers a little bit of something different off the shoulder that I like. I think you have to have. You know, the great word in soccer now is verticality. You do have to stretch because particularly in this team, I mean, you look at. There's so many good footballers underneath the ball for. For the US team that you do need a striker who can. Who can stretch. Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

Just happy to just be in front of the goal, be in the ball. Brian White's like that too.

[Tim Howard]

Totally.

[Landon Donovan]

He's just, you know, you don't need to combine and play. Just get in front of the goal.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. And Josh Sargent is scoring. Scoring goals at Norwich and he. At the championship level, he's shown he can do that. So again, we've often talked about strikers. Strikers are in a class by themselves. You want them to be informed, fit and hungry like. And look, when I. When I see this midfield, I get excited about the combination of the midfield forwards for. For the U.S. i mean, bare minimum. Tyler Adams, Weston McKinney, Giorna, Tanner Testman Moussa, Christian Pulisic, Timothy Way. I mean, that's seven players that I. I get really excited about that.

[Landon Donovan]

I.

[Tim Howard]

That I'm almost. Which is strange for the. I could check that box off. Boom. They're good. Like, they're good. They're going to perform. They've put in consistent performances at a high level. Maybe not Tanner Testament quite yet, but I think he's going to get there. And so I feel really good about that group. And. And more than anything, you're gonna. You're gonna have. Who's to come back. You got Ricardo Pepe, to come back. Pepe, Baligun, Flo to come back. Just destiny. Like, so you start to look at the roster construction like, oh, yeah, yeah, we've got some really solid pieces. Right. And so that makes me feel good about, about us moving forward, this roster in particular. But also, and, and, and the other point to, to what Potch said, like, someone obviously put Moose as a forward, not him. But like some of these guys are interchangeable. Like what does the game ask for? Well, it games ask for west in the sit. Cool. Great. This game asked him to be a number eight and drive forward. Great. He can do that, you know, and.

[Landon Donovan]

So also get in the box and be on the end of the box.

[Tim Howard]

And you know, Christian can play wide and play underneath as a 10. So there's like a lot of different bit of flexibility with this group, which I, which I really like. And by the way, if Tanner Chessman starts to boss it in, like the number six role, that then goes. We don't necessarily have to play a double pivot and two sixes. You go, you go, right? We don't know that yet, but maybe he has the legs to do it.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, I mean, maybe then you don't have to play Tyler twice too, right? You still, I mean, he's working his way still back in because he's been out for so long, so. All right, let's do this. So you said Zach, Stefan Robinson, Reem Richards and Scally.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

Okay, give me your midfield three. And give me your three. Strike. What you think will be the lineup? I guess not what you want, but what you think will be the lineup against Panama.

[Tim Howard]

I think Testman in the six.

[Landon Donovan]

You think he's going to start?

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, I do.

[Landon Donovan]

I kind of do too. It's crazy to say, but I think.

[Tim Howard]

He is amazing how you question me.

[Landon Donovan]

I mean, assuming he comes into camp, he plays Sunday, he comes in, he's good, he's healthy, he feels good.

[Tim Howard]

I think he plays Tyler and Weston. That's the easy answer. But I think he plays on my other side. Christian on one side, up front, way on the other side. Is there a world where you play a 4? 1, 4 1. Testman has the holder. Because I still think Giorna Giorno needs to be on the field. Okay, so then, so then you put, you put still. Someone still misses out. Jesus. Someone still misses out. Because then you're two.

[Landon Donovan]

Because you have to play sergeant, right? I mean, you have to play sergeant.

[Tim Howard]

Or ajumang, but I don't think I can start. So start.

[Landon Donovan]

Sergeant's up Top.

[Tim Howard]

But my point is, if Sergeant's up top and Testman's in the hole, then who's your four? Christian's one.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, I mean, I think it's Christian, Wes, Tyler, Adams and Timothy. I think Tyler can play, can play in a double pivot like that.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, they can. But then, but then, then Geo misses out. He's got to play.

[Landon Donovan]

He doesn't have to play. He doesn't play.

[Tim Howard]

He has to play. Yeah, he has to play into.

[Landon Donovan]

Well, I don't know if he's going to start him. I think he'll bring him on and see some minutes. He's also not fit. Like he hasn't played. He hasn't played a 90 minute match and I don't know when.

[Tim Howard]

Well, here, here, here's, here's the other thing. When I look at this team, he has to like his talent suggests he has to play. So. No, I'm, and I'm not disagreeing with you. I'm just saying, like he needs to be in a position where he's starting for the national team because he's that good.

[Landon Donovan]

Okay. But you, I mean, there's like form matters and being fit and playing matters. Right. And he's not. So like, you can be very talented, but you know this. You come back from preseason or you come back from the off season and you're crap. Like, dude, I took me three weeks to score a goal after being off for a while.

[Tim Howard]

I'm arguing. I'm not, I'm, I'm not, I'm not opposing you. Yeah, I'm with you.

[Landon Donovan]

You just want Geo to play.

[Tim Howard]

I do, I do. I mean, I, I think the world of them, but I think we're going to agree on our starting 11.

[Landon Donovan]

No, you said Geo. I said no. Not agreeing.

[Tim Howard]

No, no, I didn't. I. In the starting eleven, he missed out. So.

[Landon Donovan]

Okay, so I think it's Tanner and Tyler together, Wes ahead of them, Christian on one side, way on the other, and Sergeant, I think that's the safe. Tanner Tesman's going to be the one. If they see him, they're going to go. People are going, what the hell? But he was really good in January and I just have a feeling Pochettino likes him.

[Tim Howard]

I totally agree with that.

[Landon Donovan]

From this group. Before we take a break and get to questions from the fans and the fan connection, give me like two or three players who this is most crucial for. I think we can both agree on Gio.

[Tim Howard]

Yep, yep, yep.

[Landon Donovan]

Okay. Give me two or three others who you would say this Is critical moment.

[Tim Howard]

It depends who he plays in goal. I tend to think he's going to play Zach Stefan. Because he's playing, I think, for Zach.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. I think he can't. He can't be bad in this game.

[Tim Howard]

No. And Zach impressed him in January. The thing about Zach is he is a beautiful specimen when he's in that goal and he's making saves, he just looks the part.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

Hypothetically, they go on to lift the Gold Cup. Excuse me, the Nations League. Right. They go on. They go on to win that. He's had two really solid games. I think he walks away from that. Going, going. I dare you. Yeah. So I tend to think ld whoever, if it's not Tim Ring. So here's my caveat. If that back four is Robinson, Ream, Chris Richards and Scally, I think if it's not Tim Ream, let's say it's Cameron Carter, Vickers or Austin trustee as one of the center backs or McKenzie or MacKenzie. I think it's massive for. I think it's massive for whoever partners Chris Richards in the heart of defense.

[Landon Donovan]

Okay. So with Tim Ream, though, keep saying this about him, God bless him. What a career.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

There's no way he's starting in 14 months.

[Tim Howard]

Well, that's what I'm saying.

[Landon Donovan]

There's no way. So why would you play him here?

[Tim Howard]

That's a good point.

[Landon Donovan]

Right?

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. Maybe he doesn't. Maybe does.

[Landon Donovan]

Maybe he will. Like, maybe I'm the idiot and maybe he will be.

[Tim Howard]

No, and I think, I think when I said that or when I say it, I'm thinking with my, we have to win a trophy cap as opposed to my, hey, how do we. How do we build this? How do we create.

[Landon Donovan]

That's the question for Pochettino is like, do you really, really deep down, are you willing to forego something in the future to win this tournament right now? And like in front of the mirror at night, I'd love to know in his mind how he feel about. We're gonna ask you. Don't listen to what managers say, remember?

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

Publicly. By the way, just speaking of Tim, 67 times he's put on the jersey for our national team.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

What a phenomenal career.

[Tim Howard]

Phenomenal. Because. Because by the way, though, that hasn't. That hasn't been like ultra consistent. Not that he hasn't been a consistent performer, but he's been dropped by some coaches, had to earn his way back in. So huge.

[Landon Donovan]

And by the way, when you're a center back, you're not subbing into games that's probably close to 60 plus starts for the national team. Like, what a career he's had. Okay, I think the one other guy. One other guy has to be just Sargent because Baligun will be back. Pepe will be back. If they start playing well, doing well, he need. We've said it over and over. Pochettino and listening to the press conference today, he values guys he's seen in person, been around and can trust. Josh comes in and really plays well, scores a goal or two or three. It's going to be hard to take the job, to take the spot from him. It will be. And so it's a really important camp for him. Really important.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, I agree with that. The challenge, though, is for a goalkeeper, right? Or forget it. You can be any. Anybody really. Like take a defender or a goalkeeper. You win a game like 2:1, you can see the goal, no big deal. You win the game, Everybody makes plays, heading, kicking, saving, all that stuff. It lives in the manager's mind. To your point, he's got two games virtually. He has to score. He has to score. If he comes away. If he comes away with that with no goals and saying, like, I played well. And we all think he played well. I still, I still don't think you do yourself.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, you're right.

[Tim Howard]

A ton of like, that's the. That's the hard part about being a striker is you got to.

[Landon Donovan]

So it's hard part about being a striker for a good team that. That should win definitely this first game. And it's like, great, you played well, but it doesn't matter. Like you're gonna. Everyone else plays, is gonna play well too.

[Tim Howard]

Sure.

[Landon Donovan]

Everyone else is gonna do that. You need to do your job.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah. It's a big moment for him.

[Tim Howard]

Good point, though.

[Landon Donovan]

All right, on the other side of the break, we'll get into your Questions in the AT&T fan connection. God, I'm so excited now for this nation's league. I can't wait for this weekend. We'll be right back here on unfiltered soccer with Landon and Tim. We are, as always, presented by Volkswagen. Stay right there.

[C]

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[Landon Donovan]

Since you're new to H and R.

[Tim Howard]

Block, we'll look at your returns from the last three years for any money.

[Landon Donovan]

Your last guy might have missed for free. I could get money back from last year. You could. We'll find any mistakes.

[Tim Howard]

Could have really used that two years ago when I dated that man stake for five months.

[Landon Donovan]

Don't leave money on the table. Switch to H and r block and get a free second look review. Second look is included at no additional cost with the purchase of tax preparation.

[Tim Howard]

Results vary.

[Landon Donovan]

All tax situations are different. Fees apply if you have us file an amended return.

[Tim Howard]

Hi, this is Jevon, your blinds.com design consultant. Oh, wow, A real person.

[Landon Donovan]

Yep.

[Tim Howard]

I'm here to help with everything from selecting the perfect window treatments to.

[C]

Wow, I've got a complicated project.

[Tim Howard]

No problem. I can even help schedule a professional measuring install. We can also send you samples fast and free.

[C]

I just might have to do more.

[Tim Howard]

Whatever you need.

[C]

So the first room we're looking at is for shopblinds.com now and save up to 45% sitewide. Blinds.com rules and restrictions may apply.

[Landon Donovan]

A better way.

[Tim Howard]

It's time for the fan connection presented by AT&T. Every week we invite you, the listener, to connect with us by submitting your questions. The best way to grow the game of soccer in the US Is to keep asking questions and keep talking about the sport we all love. At, AT and T. Connecting changes everything. And on uslnt, our connections with you will help grow the game. Set time. Again, LD time to connect the AT&T fan connection. It's where you all get to ask us. You get to yell at us, kind of.

[Landon Donovan]

There are some good ones last week, by the way. New England stuff.

[Tim Howard]

It's good. Yeah, it's good. We love. We love all of the good, the bad and the ugly.

[Landon Donovan]

Speaking of the good, Jordan.

[Tim Howard]

Jordan, how are you?

[Landon Donovan]

The bad. That was.

[C]

That was. I bet you're calling me ugly.

[Landon Donovan]

I didn't know ugly is me, folks.

[Tim Howard]

Are you not wearing a football jersey? What are you doing?

[C]

Well, I'm. I'm waiting for my vintage Donovan and Howard u. S. Men's national team jerseys to come in the mail.

[Tim Howard]

So what was your.

[Landon Donovan]

What would be, by the way, some real vintage.

[Tim Howard]

We got the Johnny cash going to all black. Well, our.

[C]

Our listeners don't know that. A couple weeks ago, I wore that yellow umbrella new order crossover shirt and we were talking about the Everton shirt and I found one on ebay sitting on it. Yeah, How Cool.

[Landon Donovan]

You know what I'm gonna do? I'm actually gonna go into my. It's in my garage. I have a few big cartons of jerseys.

[Tim Howard]

I know.

[Landon Donovan]

And I'm gonna grab that one. I think I have it. And I'm going to bring out old vintage. I mean vintage, like, you know. Do you remember the jerseys, tim? Like late 90s. How big and baggy?

[Tim Howard]

Oh, yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

Oh, yeah, dude. I have one. That's. It's gnarly.

[Tim Howard]

What's. What's your. My. The one you need to find which. Which is like a cult classic is the army green camo. It's when I scored the goal landing you were playing. Oh, I remember that.

[Landon Donovan]

People remember that.

[Tim Howard]

People love it. People. I don't have it.

[Landon Donovan]

I literally never kept one.

[Tim Howard]

I think I might have kept the.

[Landon Donovan]

Black one of that.

[C]

Well, I'll add it to my list of things I'm looking for. I really like all of the olds, like the long sleeve, really baggy ones. That's my. My.

[Landon Donovan]

Wait till you see this.

[Tim Howard]

Jordan, what's your. What's your favorite US Men's national shirt?

[C]

Oh, I don't know if I could pick.

[Tim Howard]

I like to work. Where's Waldo was fun. That Lana you have.

[Landon Donovan]

I like the red with the. Is it with the blue sash or the white sash?

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, that one's cool. Yeah, that's nice. Oh, yeah.

[C]

I don't know if I could pick a favorite. I don't know. The U.S. men's National Team ones can be pretty good, so.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, agreed.

[C]

All right, should we jump into some questions? All right, so our first one is from an anonymous person via email, but it's a good question, so don't worry about them being anonymous. Is Nations League increasing the competitive level or should the big teams of CONCACAF consider merging with. Call me Ball.

[Landon Donovan]

Oh, Comnoba. Is South America the South America Confederation for what people don't know. I actually don't hate that. The problem is the travel problems. The travel. Because I wonder if they're saying merge fully merge, meaning qualifying would be together too.

[Tim Howard]

No, I don't think so.

[Landon Donovan]

Okay. Are they just saying for Gold Cup Cup America?

[C]

That's all I got in the email.

[Landon Donovan]

I mean, for Nations League. And like instead of having gold in Copa America, you combine them, which they're starting to do because everyone's getting invited to everything now. I actually love it because it just. I just like more competition against different teams. I hate playing the same teams over and over. So I don't hate it at all.

[Tim Howard]

No, I don't hate it.

[Landon Donovan]

I don't hate it at all.

[Tim Howard]

My, not my, my initial inclination would be like, that's impossible. Never going to happen. But we know now that, that nothing is impossible when it comes to these tournaments. So, like, yeah, I, I'm with, I'm with LD and Anonymous that, like, I'd like to see. Look, this is going to sound very high on my horse, but. But the results speak for themselves. Like, US doesn't get enough good games in concacaf.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, right.

[Tim Howard]

They just don't. They don't. And you start to, like, you start to like, create these headlines of like, oh, so and so is chasing the US and they could like, still not competitive games.

[Landon Donovan]

And guess what? What do CONCACAF and FIFA care about? Money. Totally. Right. And so when Copa America has the US And Mexico in it, and when the Gold cup has Mexico and whoever else in it and Brazil and Argentina, it's a whole different story. Totally different.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

Right.

[Tim Howard]

I like to see, I like to see us play because when you look at the European countries first and foremost, they never, you know, I, I, well, so many of my teammates were English play for England national team. And it's like, I would be shocked. I'm like, they're like, who are you playing? I'm like, oh, we're going, we're going back. We're playing Kazakhstan or El Salvador. And they're like, I'm like, who you guys playing so friendly? Like, oh, we got it. We got Italy at Wembley and then we got to go to Germany for the second Kazakhstan. Yeah, I think we played them before the World cup or something.

[Landon Donovan]

You did. I never played Kazakhstan. I want to go there.

[Tim Howard]

We played somebody. Somebody fact checked. We played before the.

[Landon Donovan]

No, it was, it was in California.

[Tim Howard]

It was in Uzbekistan. Okay, all right, my bad. I apologize. I don't. I apologize. That's my geography there is not great. But, yeah, we like these European teams. They play so many big games, just never a game off. So I'd like to see it.

[Landon Donovan]

It's true.

[C]

Would you have. They would have to expand, though, right?

[Tim Howard]

Like the.

[C]

How the, if you're adding more countries, then you have to expand how the, the tournament works.

[Landon Donovan]

Sure.

[Tim Howard]

Well, FIFA said they had an idea that was brought up in the meeting from somebody Anonymous. I think Anonymous said.

[Landon Donovan]

By the way, can we just talk. Why do you put Anonymous when you're asking a question? You could make up a name.

[Tim Howard]

Just make up a name that should be anonymous.

[C]

Your name is Anonymous in this person's defense. I, I'm just going to defend this person, Elon Musk's kid, Their email did not indicate their name. Like, their email address didn't indicate a name. And they didn't sign. Yeah, they didn't sign.

[Tim Howard]

Can I make a rule. Can I make a rule for unfiltered soccer? Sure. You're not allowed to send a comment in without some sort of name. Make it up. Make it funny.

[Landon Donovan]

That's right.

[Tim Howard]

You have to have a name.

[Landon Donovan]

Bit of banter. Give us something to work with.

[C]

Okay, how about something from Ben via email? Is that good? Okay, what are your hypothetical score predictions? If the current U.S. men's National Team played against the best 11 from before 2018?

[Tim Howard]

Wait a minute.

[Landon Donovan]

The best U.S. 11?

[C]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

So, like, one game against who, the current team?

[C]

Yes.

[Landon Donovan]

Steve loves this.

[Tim Howard]

Ben. Are you kidding me? But. But that's free. That. That's carte blanche to name anybody before 2018. Any correct? Correct.

[Landon Donovan]

Yes, that's what he's asking. This is like. This is what the problem with people who just started watching soccer six years ago is. They think everyone else used to suck. One guy asked me the other day, he goes, it was about basketball. He goes, do you think Michael Jordan would have been as good in the NBA today? I was like, bro, do you have. No. These guys who score 35 a night now because nobody defends them wouldn't have scored 12 in the NBA in the 90s because they would have got beaten into the ground by these guys. Joe Dumars and Isaiah Thomas and Dennis Robin would have got the crap out of these guys.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

I'm like, this is crazy.

[Tim Howard]

Hang on, hang on, hang on.

[Landon Donovan]

So let's do the 11. Let's go. Yeah, we have seen best 11. I think that's the real question.

[Tim Howard]

Has anybody ever. Ben, have you ever seen a young Eddie Pope, what that looks like? Because we're talking about defenders. We're talking about defenders in this current group, so.

[Landon Donovan]

True.

[Tim Howard]

The defend. God bless the defenders in this current group.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah.

[Tim Howard]

They look at everything.

[Landon Donovan]

Wow.

[Tim Howard]

Okay, anyway, keep going.

[Landon Donovan]

Okay, so name.

[Tim Howard]

Name the other name, I think, in fairness.

[Landon Donovan]

Okay, well, let's name the 11, and then we'll see where the advantage is in every. In every instance.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

So you're in Gaul, obviously. So let's say Trundle on the right. Let's say for. Let's say, B's in his prime.

[Tim Howard]

Left back. Okay.

[Landon Donovan]

And then we'll go Eddie Pope and what do you think? Lowe's probably lows.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

Probably Los. Then midfield. Claudio Michael Bradley, I guess, in his prime. Right?

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

Me and Clint, Claudio. Striker. Striker. Josie or McBride.

[Tim Howard]

We can play them both together.

[Landon Donovan]

That's it.

[Tim Howard]

Both together.

[Landon Donovan]

Is there anyone else we're missing? Like Tab in his prime.

[Tim Howard]

Oh, Jesus Christ.

[Landon Donovan]

Or Hugo. Hugo Perez in his prime. Like who in their prime?

[Tim Howard]

I tell you what, Tab.

[Landon Donovan]

Wow. Taven is prime.

[Tim Howard]

Who's missing out here?

[Landon Donovan]

To be honest, you could. You could make a case for Kobe in his prime too.

[Tim Howard]

Kobe in his prime.

[Landon Donovan]

Kobe was nice in his friend. Then you could put mirror Clint up top with Josie or Brian. All right, let's just go with some version of that.

[Tim Howard]

Okay.

[Landon Donovan]

All right. So we. We. The pre. The pre2018 goalkeepers for sure on our side.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

Left back. I love Bees. But Robinson right now is.

[Tim Howard]

So it might. They might get to tilt with Robinson.

[Landon Donovan]

Yeah, yeah. But Bees in the midfield would have been better. Eddie Pope is better than Chris Richards. Los and Tim Ream Push. Ish.

[Tim Howard]

I'm not sure it's a push.

[Landon Donovan]

No, it's close. Chirundalo versus what? Serginio Dust.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. I mean the problem with trend though is he had major injuries right before.

[Landon Donovan]

World cup, so people didn't get.

[Tim Howard]

He was brilliant. So good man.

[Landon Donovan]

All right, we'll say push. Whatever. Me and Clint are the top two scores of all time, so it's hard to get outside of that. Christian has to be for the post 2018 in there. Wes and Tyler versus Michael Bradley and Claudio. Claudio was so good, dude. Okay. Even if we said push ish. And then the strikers creatine are better than they are now.

[Tim Howard]

Totally.

[Landon Donovan]

For sure.

[Tim Howard]

Totally.

[Landon Donovan]

So. So people are going to go crazy probably listening to this. Just go watch. Just go to YouTube and watch a few games. Guys, listen.

[Tim Howard]

Claudio, Michael, Bradley together in midfield and they have. They have Wes and Tyler. It's one and one there. That's a split. That's a split. Clinton, you. No question. Josie striker. No question. Goalkeeper. No question. Christian. Absolutely right. You know, Robinson, if you want to make a case that again, thing about Bees is he was. He was world class at two positions. Right. So which is very difficult to do. But. But Anthony Robinson absolutely brilliant. So let's say they get that one.

[Landon Donovan]

Don't get maybe three or four for the post 18 group.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. Which basically means they don't win the game.

[Landon Donovan]

They don't win the game.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, Ben, there you go.

[Landon Donovan]

Also way more experience in the pre 18 group. So I. Claudio and Michael Bradley had like 700 caps. What?

[C]

Jordan, in Ben's defense, he did ask you for a score prediction.

[Landon Donovan]

Oh, Jesus.

[Tim Howard]

We got deep down that rabbit hole.

[Landon Donovan]

It's going to be tough for them to score. They might sneak a goal, but it would be tough for them to score. Very tough for them to score.

[Tim Howard]

I say.

[Landon Donovan]

And against the. I fancy myself against that backline a bit. So I'm going to say 2, 0, probably DOSA, Seattle.

[Tim Howard]

I'm saying 3, 1. Good, guys.

[C]

All right, this next question is from Alex via email. Alex, this is your lucky day because this question starts off, I love hearing about your days with the national team. So here we go.

[Landon Donovan]

We could talk all day about it.

[Tim Howard]

How much time we got in the circle?

[Landon Donovan]

No problem.

[C]

The early 2000s were an era that really opened my eyes US Soccer, and I'm proud of where it is now, thanks to the effort and sacrifices you guys have made throughout your careers. With that said, what's been your most intimidating away game with the national team?

[Landon Donovan]

I got mine.

[Tim Howard]

I want to hear yours go.

[Landon Donovan]

Okay. So mine is not even. Not even close. Costa Rica at Suprisa. We played a game there. I mean, played a few times there. We played a game there. When you get. When you show up to the stadium two hours before the game, it's packed, completely packed, and it's bouncing. They are jumping and partying, and there's music. So the whole stadium shaking. We get into the locker room, and they put our locker room strategically right underneath their supporters section. So the whole locker room shakes the whole time you're in there. Can't hear each other. You can't. It's just shaking. And it's not a nice stadium, by the way. It's old and like. Like, you're a little bit worried that walls are going to come in. And then walking out on that pitch, and it was turf, a cage around.

[Tim Howard]

Did it have cage around? Like. Like, fence cage?

[Landon Donovan]

Yep. It was dark. Always dark. The lighting was terrible.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Landon Donovan]

And you would be, like, warming up. And I swear to God, Tim, like, if I'm lying, lightning strike me, there'd be bugs the size of like. Like bigger than tennis balls. Like, big with wings and whiskers and, like, you didn't. You've never seen anything. Like, they just be chilling on the field as you keep rolling over them as you're passing. It was gnarly, dude. And you. That was the only time, even more than Azteca or anywhere else we played. I was like, dude, just get me out of here. I. I don't even care what the score is. Just get me out of here. I do not want to be here.

[Tim Howard]

You know what's funny. That's great, because I, I, I almost want to say. And again, I, we need our facts checkers. I almost want to say I didn't play at Sapresa because they remember they moved from Supresa to the national stadium, which was much nicer. And I think most of my games against Costa Rica were in the National Stadium.

[Landon Donovan]

You got lucky then.

[Tim Howard]

I know, I know. I might have been on a bench or something. So, interestingly enough, the easy answer is Azteca. And here's why it's not. Because as formidable as it is, I enjoyed that challenge so much. Like, that was like there was some sort of sadistic fun in playing there, because it's Mexico, the one game for me. And it's a similar vibe. The San Pedro Sula in Honduras. Oh, yeah. And I'm getting goosebumps thinking about it. And the reason there's a road. There's this long, desolate road, right? And it's hazy and it's a bit like brown and gray. And off in the distance, you can see San Pedro Sula. And it feels a million miles away. And on this road, right, it's filled with cars and pickup trucks and people walking. I'm talking about four miles, right? And they're just walking. And you know where they're going. This is a pilgrimage, pilgrimage to the game. And you get there, it's a mecca. And you have to show up two hours before the game. And the bus pulls in. And as long as I live, I will never forget it. Someone can tell me how many San Pedro silo holds. I don't know, 50, 60,000. Whatever it is, it's this big concrete structure. The bus pulls in down a tunnel, and it opens up. The locker room's here, and it opens up, and all you see is the stadium filled with people and music and horns and loud. And you get off the bus and you go again. It's a tunnel. It's just like concrete tunnel. And you get in the dressing room, and I remember thinking, I'm not going to enjoy this. What I said about Azteca, like, I, I'm nervous, but I'm going to enjoy this. I just kept thinking, I ain't going to enjoy this. This is like, this is horrific. The second we come out, because goalkeepers come out first form, they're going to boo and whistle and throw things. And that, by the way, does not stop for the next two hours. And as the LD say, you just cannot wait to get on the bus.

[Landon Donovan]

Hey, you know what I didn't realize by the way, but I don't know if it was San Pedro Sula or Tegucigalpa, one of those two places in Honduras. It's the second most dangerous airport in the world to fly into, like the most difficult landing or whatever. And I thank God I never knew that during. I mean, as if it wasn't bad enough.

[Tim Howard]

Appreciate you not telling me that till 2025. Oh, just for the record, I did play it. Suprisa Wasn't that difficult. 13 1.

[Landon Donovan]

We didn't win. We never wanted Suprisa.

[Tim Howard]

Oh.

[Landon Donovan]

Oh, that might have been. You know what that might have been?

[Tim Howard]

No, we lost.

[Landon Donovan]

I might have scored a penalty right at the end. How the hell did they give us a penalty, by the way? Yeah, that was Pre Var. They weren't giving us any.

[Tim Howard]

Oh, I kind of remember that. We got. I got pumped. That game never won. We got destroyed.

[Landon Donovan]

Destroyed.

[Tim Howard]

Pre Var. Good question.

[C]

This one's from Dave via email. Curious as players, what goes through your mind during the national anthem at the start of a match?

[Landon Donovan]

Great question.

[C]

Especially with your national team team games. Are you in the moment enough to even hear it? Do you like to sing along?

[Tim Howard]

Great question.

[C]

Do you feel the camera panning down the line?

[Landon Donovan]

I'm getting goosebumps. That's a great question. So 1. Yes, you do feel the camera. It changed a little as I went through my career depending on the game. It's not like every single national team game was like the crazy goosebumps, crazy pride swelling, whatever, however, there was always a sense of, like, immense pride. But if we were playing a January game at then Home Depot center and, you know, it was half full and whatever it was against Denmark, it's not the same as in a World cup, but I would close my eyes and almost meditate. I didn't sing. But you're singing it in your head. But that feeling is hard to describe and you'll never recreate it ever, ever.

[Tim Howard]

Great, great answer. A great question. I mean, look, what I would say is, I've told people often, one of the greatest loves of my life was playing for my country. I've played 121 times and it was honestly the first. My first game at Legion Field in Birmingham, Alabama, my mom was there. Meant just as much as my last game, which was horrific, losing to Trinidad and Tobago. It meant the. Every game meant the world to me. And as Landon said, some highs are really, really high prior to the game and some. It's hard to hit those heights all the time. But the national anthem was the moment where it was all consuming. Like, the training was done, the battle was to come. But that was like a singular moment in time. And what I would say, because I think it's such a great question, and we just talked about Supresa and San Pedro Sula. When I would stand there with 10 other of my brothers away from home, we were hated. It's hard to illustrate that to people. You're standing there and you have landed in that country, and pretty much for 48 hours, you've been looked at with disgust and you've been hated. And by the way, when they play our amazing national anthem away from home in concacaf, it's blared through. It's never words, and it's blared through some rickety PA system. And so the pride that we felt singing it as loud as we could try to get above the whistles and the boos and all the noise, because they don't respect our national anthem in a lot of these places, that filled me with more pride than anything else.

[C]

Just out of curiosity, since you've heard a lot of them besides the US national anthem, which national anthem could you, like, pick out no matter what? Like, which one's the most?

[Landon Donovan]

Well, for me, because I'm Canadian too, the Canadian national anthem. But the one that comes to mind right away is Jamaica. Jamaica land. We're. When the whole stadium sing it. So they go, Jamaica, Jamaica, Jamaica. And I've played them like 12 times in my career. So I just. It's a cool national anthem.

[Tim Howard]

It's good. I. I don't even. I don't even know. I don't even know that the certain national anthems, because. Didn't pay attention that much to them. But. But for any. Any world football fan, do yourself a favor and watch Italy. The players during the Italian national anthem, whenever they play it, it. There. There's tears, there's tears. There's. There's like gyration, and they're like, gripping you. Like, they start hugging by the end of the song, they've got a grip of each other's like, warm up top. And they're singing and some of them are crying and you're like, whoa, I. I think there's a soccer game or this, but I'm not really sure. Like, it's crazy. It's amazing.

[Landon Donovan]

Do yourself one other favor. The Euros. Last year, we did the Scotland Germany game, the opening game of the Euros. Yeah, Go listen to Flower of Scotland for that game. When they say, I'm gonna do it right after we get off here, go YouTube it. And there were, like, 40,000 Scots there singing. It was incredible. Awesome question.

[C]

Okay, last one. This one's from DJ via email. So these are the same question, but they're asking you both separately under different circumstances. So, Landon, who was your underrated performer in the 2002 World cup and why? And Tim, same question for you, but the 2014 World cup and why?

[Landon Donovan]

Wow, what a great question.

[Tim Howard]

Amazing.

[Landon Donovan]

Oh, I know mine. John O'Brien. Johnny O. John and O'Brien in 2002. So Jon's struggle was staying healthy during his career, but when he played and he was at his best, people will tell you who played with him. He was the most talented player that he played with.

[Tim Howard]

Definitely. Definitely.

[Landon Donovan]

And he was. He was so nice. Yeah, he was so good.

[Tim Howard]

I think someone correct me again in research. Did. Did Kyle Beckerman play or start in the Belgian game? In the Belgian game in 2014.

[Landon Donovan]

One of those games, I think I.

[Tim Howard]

I would say this about Kyle and. And. And y. It's not a. It's not a disrespect. Like, Kyle took. Like, Kyle was a really good player. He. He was reliable, and you can count on him. And. And I know, Landon, you have the utmost respect for him, playing against him and.

[Landon Donovan]

And with him and with him.

[Tim Howard]

And then you get to the 2014 World cup, and you. And you start to ask yourself, for a guy like Kyle, is this a step too far? Is this a bridge too far? Like, is this level? Maybe not for you? And he just silenced any critics, any doubters. He was the glue for that team, for all the big names, and. And. And Kyle Beckman didn't. Did not play in a Belgian game. And I thought that was a massive miss from Jurgen Klinsmann because he was just. He was the glue. He allowed all the players to go. You know, the players that. You know, the household names to go do their thing, and he was incredible during that tournament. So, yeah, be Kyle Beckerman.

[C]

Awesome. Those are great answers. This was really fun. I'm glad that we. We got to do this.

[Tim Howard]

I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[C]

More importantly, Jordan, that's what's really important. As long as the producer's happy. You know what I mean?

[Tim Howard]

Right?

[C]

Thanks, guys.

[Tim Howard]

Thanks. Thanks, Jeff.

[Landon Donovan]

Happy producer. Happy life to me.

[Tim Howard]

That's true. Very true.

[Landon Donovan]

All right. That was fun. Nations League coming up this week, hopefully Thursday and Sunday for the US Team. Tune in. I believe it's on cbs. I don't want to say that for sure if it's not, but I believe it's on cbs. So thank you all for being with us today. Great questions again during the AT&T fan connection. Appreciate it. Thanks as always. Volkswagen 2. Remember to subscribe on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, wherever you get your pods. Follow the show across all of our social media. Lots of extra content there too.

[Tim Howard]

Yeah. Thanks everyone. And thank you to our presenting sponsor, VW, and our Fan Connection sponsor, AT&T. We always miss you at the back end of the week, but we look forward to seeing you next Tuesday with another edition of Unfiltered Soccer.