2016 Copa America Centenario: 5 USMNT Players Who Must Step Up

By Taylor Sturm

The U.S. Men’s National Team heads into the 2016 Copa America Centenario on a high note, but will need to step their game up in order to beat better opposition in the tournament. Colombia and Costa Rica are two talented teams who the USMNT will face in Group A play, and both starters and bench players alike must be at the top of their game. Here are five USMNT players who must step up if the USA is to go far in this edition of the tournament.

2016 Copa America Centenario: 5 USMNT Players Who Must Step Up

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Clint Dempsey — Dempsey has yet to be his usual self for Seattle this season, and this team needs Dempsey to play at his usual level if they want to navigate a difficult Group A schedule.

Matt Besler — Likely to start at CB for most of the games, Besler played well in the two recent friendlies. He will have to be in his best form to slow down some of the top players in Group A.

Brad Guzan — Guzan took a lot of criticism for the defensive woes of Aston Villa, but he's playing behind a much better defensive line with the USMNT. He will have to come up with some big saves in this tournament.

Alejandro Bedoya — Bedoya works hard on both defense and offense and is the type of player many USMNT fans can get behind. Unfortunately, he has yet to show the consistency needed to be one of the best players on the team.

Gyasi Zardes — Zardes is on fire for both club and country as of late, and will have to bring that same energy to the 2016 Copa America Centenario.

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