The noise is already a physical presence here in Seattle. Thirty minutes before kickoff and this cavernous bowl is an absolute cauldron of noise, a fa...
The noise is already a physical presence here in Seattle. Thirty minutes before kickoff and this cavernous bowl is an absolute cauldron of noise, a fact that should surprise precisely nobody who has followed the reputation of this stadium. It was predictable, yes, but predictable brilliance is still brilliance, and the sight of a nearly full house for a group stage encounter is something that gives you goosebumps. The atmosphere has that thick, almost tangible quality that comes only when a nation truly believes. And make no mistake, the United States believes this time.But there is a wonderfully disorienting twist in the tale. Look down at the south end of the pitch, behind the goal where the most committed travelling support always congregates. There they are, a healthy and very vocal contingent of Australian fans, draped in gold and green, making their presence known. You can hear the chants bouncing back and forth across the turf already. This is not a one sided affair in the stands, and that is precisely what makes tournament football so gloriously unpredictable. The Wallabies, or should we say the Socceroos, are not here to make up the numbers. They have brought their voices and their belief across the world.What will the tactical battle look like from the off The United States, with home advantage and a squad brimming with athleticism, will likely look to press high and force mistakes in transitional play. But Australia, under their canny manager, have shown a remarkable capacity for sitting in a disciplined low block before springing forward with pace on the counter. The key battle will be in the midfield third. Can the Americans break down that defensive structure early Because if they allow the game to become a scrappy, physical contest, the visitors will fancy their chances of nicking a goal from a set piece or a rapid break.The atmosphere is a ten out of ten before a boot has touched the ball. This has all the hallmarks of a classic group stage fixture, the kind where raw emotion and national pride can overwhelm even the most meticulous of game plans. We are in for a right old ding dong here in Seattle. Buckle up.
