An MLS All-Star in 2011, an MLS Best XI and Defender of the Year selection in 2012 and now a U.S. Men's National Team regular in 2013.
Six months ago, Sporting KC defender Matt Besler had never appeared for the U.S. Men's National Team. Last night, the Overland Park, Kan. native started his third straight FIFA World Cup Qualifier in The Hex, played in his fifth straight U.S. MNT match and earned his sixth international cap in the United States' 2-0 win over Panama.
Out of the Blue already compiled what national media were saying about Besler after Tuesday's performance, but now let's see what the man himself had to say following the win that puts the United States atop the group after five of 10 games played in the final round of qualifying.
On the improved relationship of the defense...
“It’s something that takes time — building a back four, building a partnership between center backs and goalies. It’s something that you gain through experience. We are learning here as we go, but this is a huge stepping stone for us.”
On how the field played...
“The field was fine. Little bumps here and there, a couple times guys slipped, but it wasn’t an issue at all.”
On the atmosphere in the stadium...
“The atmosphere was amazing. It was one of the best atmospheres I’ve played in. It was such a pro-American crowd and they really got behind us. It would have been awesome to give them the third goal — the place would have gone crazy — but at the end of the day a 2-0 win is a great performance by us.”
On the team starting to click...
“The team is really coming together. This group of guys are all on the same page. We are starting to play together and I think that’s showing a lot on the field. Right now we are ready to go to Salt Lake and finish off the trip. We’ve already talked about on wanting to get nine points and that would put us in a very, very good position.”
