The U.S. males's nationwide soccer staff defeated Iran within the 2022 World Cup in Qatar on Tuesday — the win they wanted to advance to this Saturday's knockout stage the place they are going to tackle the Netherlands.
It guarantees to be a robust matchup, with some consultants saying the Netherlands will win. However U.S. males's nationwide staff defender Walker Zimmerman instructed CBS Information the staff is not targeted on what others are saying, however as an alternative the duty at hand.
"We have been the underdogs earlier than," Zimmerman mentioned. 'U.S. Soccer is used to that position, and I feel it is type of what has made our staff so particular, is the resiliency that we've got, that aggressive spirit that each staff earlier than us has had."
Enjoying within the World Cup nearly did not occur for Zimmerman, who initially did not make the staff roster. After two gamers fell out, Zimmerman was activated.
He proved to be a vital addition in helping Staff USA holding out and sustaining their 1-0 lead over Iran this week.
He mentioned that his second within the recreation turned out to be a "proper place on the proper time state of affairs."
"It is particular. It was a second that I am going to all the time keep in mind. And it is one thing that I will be very happy with," mentioned Zimmerman.
The staff could need to play with out star ahead Christian Pulisic, who suffered an stomach harm in the course of the match towards Iran. Zimmerman mentioned Pulisic is "doing nice" and in "good spirits."
Whereas he hopes that Pulisic will play, Zimmerman mentioned the staff is ready to play with out him.
"He is doing all of his remedy and all of his restoration. I feel he is feeling good. And we'll be able to go no matter what his standing is," Zimmerman mentioned.