VOA标准英语2013--US Soccer Hosts Costa Rica in Key World Cup Qualifier

 

US Soccer Hosts Costa Rica in Key World Cup Qualifier

As most followers¹ of World Cup qualifying² know, it's crucial to win your home games.

U.S. forward and new captain Clint Dempsey, a star for England's Tottenham Hotspur, says he and his American teammates know what's at stake.

"We have to score goals, so it's always good playing back in the (United) States and having that home field advantage. But it's definitely about winning at home, because it's crucial if you're not winning at home, well, then your chances of qualifying for the World Cup don't look good," Dempsey said.

The U.S. team's German coach Jurgen Klinsmann is under some pressure after the defeat to Honduras and criticism of how he's handled his players. This match won't be easy with several players sidelined with injuries.

But forward Eddie Johnson of Major League Soccer's Seattle Sounders says at least this time the group has had more training days together.

"We have a full week here together for guys to form that chemistry and understanding and gelling as quickly as possible to get three points in the game (with a win). But we know the importance of it. We know it's going to be hard, but we're looking forward to the game," Johnson said.

In recent years, the U.S. Soccer team has tended to play its best when facing adversity. The players, their coach and their fans are hoping that will be the case in their World Cup qualifier against Costa Rica. 

1 followers   

追随者( follower的名词复数 )； 用户； 契据的附面； 从动件

参考例句：

• the followers of Mahatma Gandhi 圣雄甘地的拥护者
• The reformer soon gathered a band of followers round him. 改革者很快就获得一群追随者支持他。

2 qualifying   

使具有资格的

参考例句：

• players who fail at the pre-qualifying stage 在预选赛中淘汰掉的选手
• A doctoral candidate is required to pass a qualifying examination. 考博士需通过一个资格考试。