The USMNT won 1-0 against Honduras in their Semi-final of the CONCACAF Nations League. Theoson Siebatcheu scored his first goal for the USMNT in the 89th minute to let the US advance to the final. The performance of the USA wasn’t as dominant as you’d think it would be on paper. Honduras played well keeping the pressure on the US and were close to getting an equalizer in the final minutes of the match.

Later that night in Denver, El Tri would win their semi-final against Costa Rica in a penalty shoot-out. Guillermo Ocha would make the game-clinching save to send Mexico to the final. Just like the US, Mexico was expected to perform at a high level but couldn't capitalize on its chances and the game took a 3-minute halt due to discriminatory chants by Mexican fans.

The Final that many were expecting between the US and Mexico will be taking place on Sunday at 9 pm EST. The rivalry between these 2 nations is always something to watch and they have had some memorable matches in recent years. Not only is there a trophy at stake but this could be a preview of a potential Gold Cup that will occur on the first of August. Here is what you should be looking out for during the match.

Lozano Vs Dest

Sergiňo Dest is one of the best up-and-coming right-backs in the soccer world. The 20-year old who plays for FC Barcelona has been a liability when it comes to the defensive end of his play. He’s a great support wing-back and excels in running in behind the backline, but with that comes his defensive positioning and tracking back. In the match against Switzerland, his right side was a vulnerability for the US defense. There was space for the swiss players to play into and Dest struggled to keep a man in front of him.

Lozano on the other hand has played well for Mexico lately. He scored in Mexico's 2-1 win against Iceland and was looking dangerous in the attack. He’s a pacey winger and loves to have the ball at his feet. He isn't afraid to go 1 v 1 with any defender.

This will be the biggest test for not only Dest but Gregg Berhalter as well. He’s seen that Dest can be a liability for the defensive shape of the team but also that he can spring well into the attack. With Lozano ready to get at their defense, Sergiňo Dest will need to come up big on the defensive side of the ball.

How will Berhalter set up the Midfield?

Will Jackson Yueill get the start in the Nations League finals? (Picture via MLS.com)

The midfield for the United States has still yet to be figured out. Sebastian Lleget, Jackson Yueill, and Weston McKennie started against Honduras and played together in the friendly in Switzerland. Yueill has been playing as the defensive midfielder for the US while McKennie and Lletget free roam in the midfield. Tyler Adams may come in for Yueill in the final as he has more experience playing that pivot midfield role. Winning the midfield is key to making the game easier and gives you the best chance to break down any team.

Who will be Mexico’s #9?

Club America striker, Henry Martin, will be fighting to be Mexico’s top choice striker (Photo Credit)

El Tri has been looking for the Chicarito replacement as it seems unlikely he returns to the lineup even though he is in good form with his club. Raul Jimenez is still recovering from the horrific head injury he sustained in October. Henry Martin and Alan Pulido have been competing to be Mexico’s top striker. Coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino will have to choose the best fit going against the physical center backs of the US. John Brooks set the tone early against Honduras, getting physical and showing he won’t mess around. If Mexico wants to get ahead in the match, Martin or Pulido have to be helpful in the build-up play and be clinical in their chances.

The first-ever champion of the CONCACAF Nations League will be crowned on Sunday. While this trophy has no value at all, if we get an action-packed and passionate display of football, it would be a great start to the tournament's value. My prediction for the game is a 3-1 win for el tri. This will be another big test for Berhalter to prove he’s the man that can qualify the US for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The Gold cup will be coming up soon so we may get another US-Mexico final by the end of the summer.