U.S. men’s soccer forward Jozy Altidore will miss the U.S. game against Portugal on Sunday due to a strained left hamstring. It’s likely that he will also not play in next week’s game against Germany.
Altidore was injured during the 21st minute of Monday’s game against Ghana. The severity of the injury has not been revealed. Aron Johannsson replaced Altidore in Monday’s game. In addition to Johannsson, Chris Wondolowski is another player who could fill in for Altidore, according to the Associated Press. U.S. team spokesman Michael Kammarman said that they hope that Atlidore can return during the tournament. The U.S. would probably need to advance to the knockout round in order for Altidore to return during the tournament.
''He's a big player for us,'' U.S. midfielder Kyle Beckerman said. ''We're extremely bummed for him and for the team, but we bring 23 players, and it's just a chance for somebody to step up. Hopefully the injury's not too bad and we can see Jozy later in the tournament.''
Altidore has played in 71 games for the U.S. In those 71 games he has scored 23 goals, according to Fox Sports. Altidore isn’ the only injured played on the U.S. though. Defender Matt Besler tweaked a hamstring, but will play on Sunday. Captain and forward Clint Dempsey, who broke his nose, is also expected to play on Sunday.
The U.S. could use a 4-4-2 formation and start five middlefielder with Altidore out. It will be interesting to see if they go to the 4-4-2 formation or have someone fill in for Altidore.