beIN SPORTS Offers Soccer Analysis in English and Spanish on Copa America Centenario
As the 2016 Copa America Centenario quarterfinals are here, “The Xtra” and “The Locker Room” on beIN SPORTS offers in depth soccer analysis on this tournament which has gradually increased intensity with high-stakes games knocking out the competition.
SoccerToday asked beIN SPORTS analyst Kevin Egan to answer a few questions on the 2016 Copa America Centenario — what teams performed will in the group stage and might advance ….
Diane Scavuzzo: How do you think the USA is performing in the Copa America Centenario?
Kevin Egan: The US just topped a group with Colombia, Paraguay and Costa Rica, which in itself is a wonderful achievement.
For the very first time, Jurgen Klinsmann has played the same 11 in three consecutive matches, and that consistency and sense of identity is something most USMNT fans have craved.
The last two victories seems to have brought back hope and confidence among USA supporters, the players and management. Although a couple of victories have not solved all of Jurgen’s problems, or completely eased the concerns fans have about the future, there’s no question that this positive momentum has brought a smile to everyone who cares.
Diane Scavuzzo: What does USMNT Head Coach Jurgen Klinsmann need to do better?
Kevin Egan: My concern with Jurgen has been his persistence on playing guys in a different position to what they’re used to at club level, or changing their role with the national team every time they’re in camp.
For example, is Michael Orozco a right back or a centerback?
Is Geoff Cameron a right back or a centerback?
In World Cup qualifying — it certainly has not been clear, and I don’t think that has helped those two players in particular. Identity is a word that’s often thrown around, and I can completely understand why.
In Jurgen’s defense, there are a lot of players at a similar level within his player pool.
Does the USA have a clear #1 goalkeeper, central defender, or striker? I’m not sure.
There are no stars within this group, so finding a set system and defined roles for certain guys is a challenge, but one that I think he could do a better job of.
Diane Scavuzzo: Will USA make it to the Semis?
Kevin Egan: Ecuador is a really, really tough challenge for the USMNT, but I have a strong feel this team will come through. Ecuador plays a very raw game, with so much pace in their team. If the US allows the game to get stretched they’ll get punished, however if Jurgen’s men frustrate Ecuador and remain really well organized, gaps will appear. I’ll go with 3-2 USA!
Diane Scavuzzo: Thoughts on the handball in Brazil vs Peru?
Kevin Egan: For me, having looked at it over and over again, it’s certainly a handball.
Diane Scavuzzo: Thanks Kevin – look forward to your commentary as this all unfolds on the fields.
And, in case you missed it, beIN SPORTS announced new English and Spanish language programming surrounding the 2016 Copa America Centenario tournament. Viewers can tune into special editions of the network’s original studio shows, “The Xtra” and “The Locker Room,” on beIN SPORTS and beIN SPORTS en Español, respectively
Both beIN SPORTS channels will air special LIVE original news and editorial analysis that will preview and analyze the exciting matchups. The network’s sports journalists Pablo Mariño, José Hernández, Eduardo Biscayart and Alejandro Farffann will be joined by special guests and contributors to break down all the action and news throughout the tournament on beIN SPORTS en Español. Meanwhile, Jeremy St. Louis, Phil Schoen, Gary Bailey, Kevin Egan, George D. Metellus and Andres Cordero will do the honors on beIN SPORTS.
New programming includes one-hour long episodes of “The Locker Room” every night at 12 AM ET on beIN SPORTS en Español and a half-hour long nightly edition of “The Xtra” on beIN SPORTS. The program will have special one-hour long episodes on nights when the USA team plays.
