Yes, we all know the US did not make the cut to the most important soccer event in the world, but several PNW MLS players did! So let’s take a look at those familiar faces playing in Russia, who in a way will allow us to feel like our own are out there as well!
- THE CLUBS –
Portland Timbers:
David Guzman – Midfielder – Costa Rica
On May 9, 2018, while OSN was interviewing David Guzman, we were one of the first news outlets to learn Guzman had been selected to join the Costa Rican national team. Guzman himself confirmed he had gained a spot in the team and the significance of it all “It’s very important obviously when you are representing your country and we want to do things the right way for the country, for the family. You know there isn’t anything more beautiful than defending your own colors.”
Andy Polo – Midfielder – Peru
Polo is on a loan from Club Morelia in Mexico. Polo is no stranger to the international arena. It is anticipated that his exposure to international teams will bring an edge to his performance at the World Cup for sure.
Seattle Sounders:
Roman Torres – Defender – Panama
With 10 international goals, Torres doesn’t only prove that he is ready for the World Cup but that Panama needs him to advance to the following round. Panama couldn’t have made it to the World Cup without Torres’ technique.
Gustav Svensson – Midfield/Defender – Sweden
A testament that anything can happen in soccer, especially in the World Cup, Svensson is the poster boy for that element of surprise. Having been selected to the Swedish National Team in the 2009 FIFA Club World Cup, Svennson had not represented his country until this year when he was called once more.
- THE SCHEDULE –
Portland Timbers
Costa Rica – David Guzman – Midfielder
Sunday, June 17 vs. Serbia @ 5:00 AM (PST)
Friday, June 22 vs. Brazil @ 5:00 AM (PST)
Wednesday, June 27 vs. Switzerland @ 11:00 AM (PST)
Peru – Andy Polo – Midfielder
Saturday, June 16 vs. Denmark @ 9:00 AM (PST)
Thursday, June 21 vs. France @ 8:00 AM (PST)
Tuesday, June 19 vs. Australia @ 7:00 AM (PST)
Seattle Sounders
Panama – Roman Torres – Defender
Monday, June 18 vs. Belgium @ 8:00 AM (PST)
Sunday, June 24 vs. England @ 5:00 AM (PST)
Thursday, June 28 vs. Tunisia @ 11:00 AM (PST)
Sweden – Gustav Svensson – Midfield/Defender
Monday, June 18 vs. South Korea @ 5:00 AM (PST)
Saturday, June 23 vs. Germany @ 11:00 AM (PST)
Wednesday, June 27 vs. Mexico @ 7:00 AM (PST)
I have no doubt all of the combined talent and skill of the above mentioned players will be an addition to the level of soccer and passion the MLS already generates. The ability to know your hometown players are in this worldwide platform will help us PNWs live a piece of this event in a more personal way. Something that we for sure need today more than ever as the US Along with Canada & Mexico have been selected as the host of the World Cup in 2026.
If that doesn’t tell us how important soccer has become for the US, I am not sure what does! After all, of the 80 matches to be played in 2026, 10 will be in Canada, 10 in Mexico and 60 in the United States! Sounds like the MLS has its work cut out and why not even us, the fans, need to bring everyone out to watch, and what a better way than starting to watch today, as Russia 2018 kicks off another event to go down in the history of soccer worldwide.
