World Cup preview: A closer look at the hosts USA, Canada and Mexico

USA face a defining finals, Canada target a breakthrough while Mexico will be hoping to end their curse.

TEAM AMERICA: Christian Pulisic of the United States of America argues with Referee Kevin Ortega. Pic: Jamie Squire/Getty Images.

USA face defining World Cup

The United States head into the World Cup facing perhaps higher stakes than any other team, with a deep run likely to accelerate the sport’s growth in the country and an early exit from a favourable group threatening to stall years of progress.