Quakes duo Chris Wondolowski and Justin Morrow have their sights set on the United States' northern neighbors as the two prepare to play Canada in a friendly tonight at Houston's BBVA Compass Stadium (6 p.m. PT/ESPN2).
Both Morrow and Wondolowski have spent the month of January training with the U.S. Men's National Team in Carson, Calif. under the watchful eye of head coach Jurgen Klinsmann - and both may have seen their efforts come to fruition.
Although the lineup has yet to be released, insiders are projecting both Morrow and Wondolowski to receive the starting nods. Wondolowski, who eclipsed his successful 2010 and 2011 seasons with an MVP-winning 2012 campaign, will be seeking his ninth cap. Similar to Wondolowski's successful 2012, Morrow also had his best season to date. The defender will be looking to make his international debut come Tuesday evening.
The match against Canada will reward the efforts of two crucial components in the Quakes' 2012 Supporters Shield run - the second in the franchise's history.
"I wasn't sure I was going to get this chance. Now that it's here, it's a joy man," said the 2012 Budweiser Golden Boot winner Chris Wondolowski.
Wondolowski has made national headlines for his predatory finishing in the MLS. Yet, he is still waiting to fully transfer his lethal instincts to the international stage. Tonight's match may be the perfect occasion.
Notre Dame product Justin Morrow will similarly embrace the opportunity after starting 33 matches and netting 2970 minutes while also contributing one goal and four assists in 2012. Along with Wondolowski, Morrow was named to the 2012 AT&T MLS All-Star game.
While the match will be labeled a friendly, U.S. head coach Jurgen Klinsmann views the preceding camp and the match as a "preparation camp for a World Cup Qualifier." Morrow and Wondolowski cannot wait.
