US men's national team skip October camp, matches due to COVID-19

Source: Xinhua| 2020-09-24 11:13:47|Editor: huaxia

WASHINGTON, Sept. 23 (Xinhua) -- The United States' men's national team will not hold a camp or play international friendlies during the FIFA window next month due to the COVID-19, local media reported on Wednesday.

The team last played in February, beating Costa Rica 1-0 in a friendly match. Subsequent international friendlies in Europe against the Netherlands and Wales as well as the CONCACAF Nations League matches and the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches were all postponed because of the pandemic.

"After extensive conversations about holding a men's national team camp in October, we ultimately determined the unique challenges created by COVID-19 as it relates to hosting international opponents and getting our players together wouldn't allow us to move forward," US men's national team general manager Brian McBride said.

"Both players and staff are disappointed not to be able to get back on the field," US coach Gregg Berhalter said. "While COVID-19 continues to create challenges for us, we are confident we can find a way forward in the near future that will provide an opportunity to play matches in preparation for the important competitions next year."

It is likely the team will play in Europe during the November window, possibly using European-based players only, according to local media. There is also the possibility of a December camp as well as a January camp. Enditem

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