HOUSTON (AP) — The United States prepped for its opening game in the final round of World Cup qualifying with a dull 0-0 tie against Canada on Tuesday night as defender Omar Gonzalez returned to the American national team lineup after a two-year absence.
U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann changed all 11 starters from November’s 2-2 tie at Russia and is likely to change the entire lineup against for the Feb. 6 qualifier against Honduras at San Pedro Sula.
Gonzalez was the senior member of the backline. Making his third international appearance, the 6-foot-5 Los Angeles Galaxy center back was joined by three players making their national team debuts: right back Tony Beltran, center back Matt Besler and left back Justin Morrow. Will Bruin and Alfredo Morales made their debuts when they entered in the 74th minute.
With Clint Dempsey, Jozy Altidore and the other regulars remaining with their clubs in Europe for weekend matches, the U.S. started an all-Major League Soccer lineup for the first time since January 2007 against Denmark.
