Celtic defender Cameron Carter-Vickers was rightfully praised following the USA’s 1-0 victory over Iran.
The win has sent the USA into the knockout stages of the World Cup, where they will take on Louis van Gaal’s Dutch side.
It was a bit of a surprise to see the former Spurs defender start the match with Tim Ream and Walker Zimmerman being given the nod for the previous two matches against Wales and England.
Although he didn’t look out of place in the side and put in a heroic performance where he snuffed out any danger from the opposition to help his side to victory and also keep a clean sheet.
Following the game, many in the US press immediately reacted to Carter-Vickers brilliant performance.
“Carter-Vickers looked comfortable next to Tim Ream, and his athleticism offered a dynamic new look to help stifle the Iranian attack as the Americans advanced to the Round of 16,” said Jarred Schwartz of the New York Post.
“Carter Vickers much more of an enforcer than Zimmerman. Good call by Bethalter,” said Jason McIntyre of Fox Sports.
“Raise your hand if you had Tim Ream and Cameron Carter-Vickers basically playing a perfect game in a do-or-die match at the World Cup,” said Thomas Floyd of The Washington Post.
Since he arrived at Celtic, the 24-year-old has been a standout and deserved this opportunity for his national team.
Before last night, he hadn’t featured too often for the USA, but his experience in the Champions League for the Hoops against some quality opposition will have prepared for this test against Iran.
Gregg Berhalter now has a huge decision on his hands for the match against the Netherlands. He may go back to the tried and test partnership of Ream and Zimmerman or once again reward Carter-Vickers after a standout performance in a crunch match.
