Head Coach Thomas Rongen
On what he expects from Tuesday’s game:
“It’s a big game for us, playing here in Rochester on a great field that is similar to what we’ll see in the World Cup. The artificial turf is like what we’ll play on in Montreal and Ottawa, so we’re pleased to be here playing the current Under-20 World Cup champion, Argentina, who are always a formidable opponent. It’s really great preparation for us.”
On where the U.S. ranks in the world right now:
“I think Tuesday will be telling as to whether we can play with the big boys, and obviously Argentina is the big team right now along with Brazil. They are the reigning U-20 World Cup champions, so it’ll be a great test for us and a great challenge. I think we have a team that play with anybody on any given day. We’ve made great strides in the last 10 years and hopefully this game on Tuesday will show that.”
On the strengths of this team:
“I think our strength is in the attack. With (Josmer) Altidore, (Freddy) Adu, Robbie Rogers and Johan Smith, we have guys who can put the ball in the back of the net. We’ve got great attacking flair. I think this will be an entertaining game because both teams like to attack and are technically very sound.”
Captain Freddy Adu
On how it feels to be preparing for the World Cup and representing the United States:
“It’s always exciting to play for your country. I’m happy to be here, and happy to be with the guys. I’ve been with these guys for so long, living down in Bradenton together – it’s good to be back together.”
On a new role coming into this World Cup:
“Being the captain of this team means that I want to take my experiences with the last two U-20 World Cups and try to bring it here and help these guys out.”
On the importance of Tuesday’s game against Rochester:
“We’re obviously playing against one of the best teams in the world. They’re the defending champions, so it’s going to be fun and we’re going to be up for it and hopefully the crowd support will be great.”
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