WATTS READY FOR ITALIAN CHALLENGE Rich Fidler - Wednesday, November 4, 2009
The United States will face perennial world soccer power Italy on Wednesday in the FIFA U-17 World Cup, and making it to the knockout stage of the tournament has been behind the backbone of a stingy defense.
"We're improving each game. So we're hoping to keep on improving, work on the details, and get the win," captain Jared Watts told Yanks Abroad.
Watts leads the team from his central position in the defense where the 6'-0" South Carolina native feels most comfortable for both country and his club team North Meck SC.
"We've definitely improved in the back. We are getting a little more comfortable, we're getting some confidence and that's helping us out for sure."
The Red, White and Blue shutout their last two group opponents, Malawi and the United Arab Eremites, securing 1-0 victories in both match-ups. They hope to continue their success against a much tougher European foe.
"We don't watch too much film," said Watts of Italy.
"We just focus on the things tactically that we need to improve on and win each game. Stay sharp in the back and make sure we're communicating, stay tight as a group and improve on the field."
The Americans were defeated 2-1 in their only other game of the current tournament, against fellow European nation Spain in their opener for both team.
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