Monday Kicks: U.S. to play Egypt & more

*The U.S. will play No. 10-ranked Egypt Feb. 9 in Cairo, officials confirmed today.

Coach Bob Bradley had his usual canned reaction:

“Egypt is an extremely talented and competitive team. Their performances in the Confederations Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations have demonstrated their ability to challenge the top teams in the world. To play against the champions of Africa in what will be a fantastic environment in Cairo is a great opportunity as we get ready for the CONCACAF Gold Cup.”

The U.S. beat Egypt 3-0 at the 2009 Confederations Cup with goals from Charlie Davies, Michael Bradley and Clint Dempsey.

It will be the second game of the year for the U.S.after the 6 p.m. Jan. 22 contest against Chile at Home Depot Center.

*The SportsBusiness Journal has named AEG head honcho Tim Leiweke at No. 12 on their list of the 50 most influential people in sport.

He’s ahead of FIFA President Sepp Blatter at No. 21 (!) and MLS Commish Don Garber at No. 34.

Ameri-centric list? Of course. Here’s the complete list.

*Senior Rafael Baca of Lawndale has become the third player in LMU history to be named to the National Soccer Coaches Association of America All-America team, earning a place on the Third Team. Baca joins Andres Murriagui and Andres Torres (both 2002) and Matt Kovar (2004) as the only Lions to earn NSCAA All-America recognition.

Baca had a league-leading eight assists and three goals last season.

Incidentally, Wayne Rooney just blasted a spot kick over the bar, missing the chance to put Manchester United up by two over Arsenal. The game is on ESPN2.

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