FRANCE 98 – USA – S. Sampson: “The pressure's all on Germany”

Steve SAMPSON (coach)

“We’re under no pressure whatsoever. The pressure’s all on GERMANY and YUGOSLAVIA and that could be an advantage for us. The team from GERMANY might not yet be at their best for their first match. Our reputation is not yet very established in Europe and I have to say we haven’t earned it yet because we haven’t won a match on this continent since 1992. On the other hand, in Latin America, our results and performance have earned us some respect. U.S. football therefore does stand to gain recognition through this World Cup. And if it doesn’t happen, football in the U.S. won’t suffer, as the MLS (Major League Soccer, the American Professional League) is already doing very well.

As for Kasey KELLER, he is in my opinion one of the 3 or 4 best goal keepers in the world and the UNITED STATES have qualified for the World Cup largely due to him. I have told my players that I’ve been very proud of their professionalism since our arrival in FRANCE.”