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Riverhounds Keeper Thompson, Reggae Boyz Stand Between U.S. and Gold Cup Final

U.S. vs Jamaica
Semifinal – CONCACAF Gold Cup
6 p.m. EST (Fox Sports 1)
Atlanta’s Georgia Dome

Make no mistake. For Jurgen Klinsmann and the United States Men’s Soccer team –capturing a sixth Gold Cup title — and earning a spot in the prestigious FIFA Confederations Cup in Russia in 2017 would be an important and necessary accomplishment for the U.S. as they enter the next cycle of competition leading up to the 2018 World Cup.

In their way of reaching the Gold Cup Final stands Pittsburgh Riverhounds goalkeeper Ryan Thompson — and the Jamaican team — as the two men’s national teams will battle on Wednesday evening in Atlanta in the CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinals.

Thompson, who was relegated to back-up role for the Reggae Boyz in their appearance falling short in three group stage matches in the Copa America tournament earlier this summer, finally had his chance as he was called into duty around the 20th minute of their Gold Cup final group stage match vs El Salvador after Dwayne Miller was injured.

Thompson came up with numerous big saves to help Jamaica complete a 1-0 victory to help them take the top spot in their group.

Thompson tweeted this after that match:

Against Haiti in quarterfinals on Saturday in Baltimore, Thompson got the start, continuing his stellar play earning a second clean sheet as Jamaica advanced to the semifinals with another 1-0 win.
The 30-year-old, who became the first Jamaican to play in the Champions League with Irish club Shamrock Rovers, told reporters after beating El Salvador.

“I was proud to go out there and represent the country despite the circumstances. I was happy about my performance, but saddened by what happened to (Dwayne) Miller.
“It’s a special group of players that we have, I’ve never been around a group like this when everybody helps each other, I’m just proud to be a part of that. We need to just continue growing from strength to strength in this competition.”

On Wednesday night, a crowd of 70,000 will be expected in Atlanta’s Georgia Dome to watch the Gold Cup Semifinals (Mexico-Panama will follow at approximately 9 p.m.)
While Thompson has missed out playing for the Riverhounds for a portion of their schedule which has seen some of their most exciting games played before sellout crowds and against an MLS side (DC United at Highmark Stadium on June 18), he has made the most of his opportunities thus far on the Gold Cup stage — and will now be playing before a large crowd in semifinal that will feature the two North American powers (USA, Mexico), a Central American team (Panama) and a Caribbean Island nation (Jamaica).

WHAT TO EXPECT – US vs JAMAICA:
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As good as that result was for the US, it was against lowly Cuba.

It’s important not to take too much away from that game, but the victory did give the US some confidence moving forward. The defense will get tested against Jamaica, so let’s see how it responds.  Klinsmann made some changes to the roster after the Group Stages — adding veteran DeMarcus Beasley — who could see some action if the outside backs struggle.
After struggling at times in the group stages, the midfield looked sharper against Cuba.  Forward Aron Johannsson, scored, got an assist, drew and penalty and made great runs and needs to continue to play well, especially with the absence of Jozy Altidore, who Klinsmann took off the roster after group play due to fitness.

The US will not take Jamaica lightly.  The Reggae Boyz are playing well –have mostly been together since late May.  They have 17 players played in the Copa America in June.  Althought they went out in the group stage in Chile, it looks like they’ve brought confidence over into the Gold Cup, winning their group that included a very formidable Costa Rica (who they tied 2-2).
No doubt, Jamaica has speed and talent in the attack, and the team should have a few good chances on goal against the US’ goalkeeper Brad Guzan. The backline has some strength but isn’t as talented or technical as top countries like U.S. and Mexico.

LAST MEETING
The last time these two met was in Kingston, Jamaica, in 2013 in World Cup Qualifying match which the US pulled out an improbable win on Brad Davis‘ goal in the 93rd minute.

GOLD CUP SCHEDULE
Note: all times ET

Semifinals – Georgia Dome (Atlanta)
Wednesday, July 22
US vs. Jamaica, 6 p.m. (FS1)
Panama vs. Mexico, 9 p.m. (FS2)

Third Place Game – (Chester, PA)
Saturday, July 25
US-Jamaica loser vs. Panama-Mexico loser, 4 p.m. (FS2)

Finals – Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia, PA)
Sunday, July 26
US-Jamaica winner vs Panama-Mexico winner 7:30 p.m. (FS1)

John Krysinsky has covered soccer and other sports for many years for various publications and media outlets. He is also author of 'Miracle on the Mon' -- a book about the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, which chronicles the club, particularly the early years of Highmark Stadium with the narrative leading up to and centered around a remarkable match that helped provide a spark for the franchise. John has covered sports for Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, DK Pittsburgh Sports, Pittsburgh Sports Report, has served as color commentator on Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC broadcasts, and worked with OPTA Stats and broadcast teams for US Open Cup and International Champions Cup matches held in the US. Krysinsky also served as the Head Men’s Soccer Coach at his alma mater, Point Park University, where he led the Pioneers to the first-ever winning seasons and playoff berths (1996-98); head coach of North Catholic boys (2007-08), associate head coach of Shady Side Academy boys (2009-2014).

Glory on the Grass

Riverhounds MF Kenardo Forbes

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