As the betting odds currently stand, England are expected to top Group B – with the United States, Wales and Iran tipped to finish second, third and fourth respectively. While the Three Lions’ talent and recent performances at major tournaments are enough to justify their favourites tag – two of their three group fixtures will be far from walkovers. USA in particular have a formidable squad at this year’s World Cup, with The Stars and Stripes boasting a number of players who ply their trade in some of the most prominent top-flight football competitions in Europe.

England are garnering a short price of 7/10 in the England v USA betting odds – however – with the USMNT (United States Men’s National Team) fielding arguably their most talented side ever, Gareth Southgate’s men can’t afford to take them lightly. With that in mind, read on as we take a look at some of the USA’s danger men who could give England some headaches when they meet on November 25 at Al Bayt Stadium.

Christian Pulisic

Although Chelsea’s Christian Pulisic has received limited game time in the 2022/23 Premier League season thus far, the 24-year-old has shown glimpses of the form that saw him net six goals in 22 league games last season. Additionally, Pulisic appears to rise to the occasion at an international level, with the winger tallying an impressive 21 goals in 52 appearances for his country – more than any active US player. 

His flair and vision could create opportunities in behind England’s vulnerable defensive line – and with capable finishers in Pulisic’s team including the likes of Norwich City’s Josh Sargent and Union Berlin’s Jordan Pefok – the USMNT are a genuine goalscoring threat. There will be added motivation for Pulisic to perform as he is considered the leading candidate for the captaincy role – and he appears confident that his side can make some noise at football’s premier showpiece.

“Listen, I don’t know what the odds are or any of that kind of stuff,” he said. “We’re going in there with the goal of winning the World Cup. We’re going in there with the mentality to win.”

Tyler Adams

In what is a stark contrast in playing styles to that of Pulisic, Leeds United’s central-midfielder Tyler Adams employs a no-nonsense approach that has seen him become a fan favourite in West Yorkshire. Adams’ strength on the ball, ability to press and engine in the midfield will be crucial in allowing his side to generate turnovers and counterattack off the back of it. 

The 23-year-old’s combination with fellow midfielders Weston McKennie and Yunus Musah has been a strong point for the Americans, and if all three can play at the level they’re capable of – an upset could very well be on the cards.

Antonee Robinson and Sergino Dest

After struggling to find reliable fullbacks in World Cups gone by – the USMNT are blessed to have two solid members on the last line who complement each other exceptionally well. Antonee Robinson’s and Sergino Dest’s dependability at the back cannot be overstated – which in turn allows their midfielders and forwards to play a more attacking and expansive brand of football. Staying injury free will be imperative however, with the squad seriously lacking depth at the fullback position beyond Robinson and Dest.