The climax of Leagues Cup 2023 is fast approaching, with Nashville SC facing Inter Miami CF on the evening of Saturday 19th August at GEODIS Park, Nashville. Before the action kicks off between the two MLS sides, let’s take a look at which American players could stand out during the historic final showdown.
Walker Zimmerman is Nashville’s own Captain America, and is an underrated star in defence for the MLS side. A mainstay in every Nashville fixture, Zimmerman's embodiment of his designated player status and his appearance in the esteemed 2023 MLS All-Star showcase affirm his stature.
Aged 30 and a key figure in the US Men's National Team, Zimmerman's leadership and sagacity have steered his team to consecutive shutouts in critical knockout clashes against Minnesota United and Monterrey. Yet, his influence extends beyond the defensive line, as he has even found the back of the net twice during this competition. His initial goal transpired in an electrifying group-stage confrontation with Toluca, while his subsequent strike secured a pivotal advancement against Club América in the round of 16.
Zimmerman's trajectory into prominence commenced with his USMNT debut in February 2017. His remarkable journey, encompassing 42 caps and three goals for his nation, unfolded through his instrumental role in the US's qualification bid for the 2022 World Cup.
He emerged as an indispensable presence, featuring in all three group-stage encounters and persisting even during the heart-wrenching round of 16 exit against the formidable Netherlands.
For Inter Miami CF their very own DeAndre Yedlin is another experienced player to have represented the United States and find himself in the final of Leagues Cup 2023. The Seattle born defender is a former Premier League player, having played a chunk of his career at Newcastle United, not to mention having also represented Galatasaray in the Turkish Super Lïg.
The right back has featured in every match so far for Inter Miami in Leagues Cup, and has two assists to his name - the latest of which helped the Florida side out in the semi-final, setting up youngster David Ruíz against Philadelphia Union.
Yedlin made his debut for the US Men’s National Team in February 2014, and has participated in two World Cup campaigns, as well as one Copa America and one Gold Cup. He has accumulated 81 appearances for his national side.
