ANTHONY MANNINO- If the loss to Panama was unacceptable, then the loss to Mexico is just disappointing. Not from the standpoint that the USMNT was the better team, but they had control of the match 22 minutes into the game. Mexico controlled the possession, but some how, some way US had a 2-0 lead. After the two goals the US defense was torn apart by Giovani Dos Santos, Pablo Barrera, and Andres Guardado.
It is not just losing to Mexico that is the problem, but not being able to play in the Confederations Cup is a huge blow for the US. Mexico will now be able to warm up for the World Cup against Spain, Brazil, Japan, winner of the Copa America, and the winner of next year’s Euros. Every team Mexico will play is a quality opponent. The US will play in the 2013 Gold Cup, and the best team they will likely face is the Mexican B team. That valuable experience is what these two squads were fighting for tonight, and Mexico won that battle.
Dolo’s Injury Hurt More than Just his Ankle
The US defense looked lost tonight, and having Steve Cherundolo on the sidelines for the majority of the match due to injury was the difference. The right back was the most reliable player for the US during their Gold Cup run. His replacement Jonathan Bornstein was the worst player on the pitch, and he was at fault for two of Mexico’s goals.
Also, Tim Howard might have played his worst game for the USMNT. For a keeper of his quality more is expected from him, but his defense let him out to dry tonight. After tonight’s performance Zak Whitebread and Omar Gonzalez deserve their chance to cement themselves as starters for the US. However, if Cherundolo does not injury his ankle this game might have been a different story. Shows how much he means to the team, and how poorly Bornstein played.
Living up to the Hype
Freddy Adu has been the best player for the US the 110 minutes that he played. It was Adu who helped set up the last three goals for the US. I know this is early to say, but it looks like Adu is starting to turn the corner. Whether it was because of character issue or lack of playing time that was holding Adu back,the new Adu is starting to find his stride with both of those problems out the window.
Every time Adu touched the ball good things happened for the US. If anything, he did not see the ball enough, and it would have benefited the US if Adu had more touches. What Adu needs to do now is continue to get some playing time, and continue to work hard. Freddy, find a club that will let you play as an attacking mind, and if that means moving back to the MLS then so be it. The only negative thing for Adu is he cannot play now, and build of the momentum he currently has. By now I mean tomorrow (just wish he could continue to get some matches in).
4-2-3-1
Bob Bradley should continue to use the 4-2-3-1 formation. This formation best suits the players on the US roster, and allows Adu, Landon Donovan, and Clint Dempsey the freedom to move into open spaces. It still needs some tweaking, but the squad played their best under this system.
Giving up four goals is very disappointing, but it is time to look to the future and make up for any mistakes. Next important match for the US will be qualifying for the 2014 World Cup.
You know, I thought after this mess of a game I was ready to rant (again!) at the lack of (add any word here- guts, courage, skill) from the US national team but I tried not to rant. Howevewr,up 2 nil and they lose. Really? Dolo is injuried and leaves the game- so that’s why we lost (some have said that)? I don’t think so. Bornstein comes in and stinks up the place.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, as individuals the USA has some really good players. As a squad THEY ARE CRAP! People say oh just learn from the experience and get better. Hey we had ‘em 2 zip. SO WHAT! The game isn’t played for 25 minutes. Its played for 90!
Sorry, I was trying not to rant but I can’t help it!
I learned to love the game when I was around 18 or so. My best friend’s dad was a Scot who grew up in the Mid-West and they love their soccer. I never played but can appreciate the skill and strategy involved. From way back then (1966-1968) all you heard was the US will learn this game get better and they will win the World Cup. Bet on it. We’re the USA and when we set our mind to something it gets done (Moon landing for example). The Cup will be ours by the mid 90s or the 1st decade of the 21st century- count on it!. Yeah right. After watching the last 3/4th of that Gold Cup final game we’re going backwards not forwards.
Dump the coach, look at each member of the team and do something! UGH! All I can say is FORSA ITALIA!