It has been a long four years for the U.S. men's national team, but finally -- finally -- graduation day is here.
On Nov. 21, these young American students (of the game) will walk across the biggest stage (in sports). They'll leave behind their classrooms and confront the harsh realities of the real world (of international soccer).
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Those weak performances in the September friendlies? Nothing more than some senioritis, perhaps. Because now, with everyone watching, these graduates are ready -- ready to make an impact, ready to make themselves heard, ready to shine.