The USMNT played on the road for the first time in the qualifying season for World Cup 2014 tonight, drawing 1-1 with Guatemala. The match featured a first-half goal from Clint Dempsey for the US, a second-half goal for the stars and stripes nullified by a poorly timed whistle, a late goal for the hosts off a very well-taken free kick, and some stellar saves from Tim Howard to preserve the draw for the Americans.
Here are my three positives from tonight's match:
1. Clint Dempsey continues to lead the offense with stellar play
On a night where Herculez Gomez was unimpressive and Jozy Altidore's limited minutes will be remembered by a missed opportunity off a great feed from Michael Bradley, Dempsey's effort was a big key to earning a point tonight. Not only did he score his goal off a brilliant sidestep move, but he created two other golden chances by drawing fouls just outside the box. The "most dangerous player" torch has officially been passed from Landon Donovan to Dempsey and Deuce isn't likely to let it go anytime soon.
2. Tim Howard saved the day
There is no more stable position in world soccer right now than that of the netminder for the USMNT. Howard has been a rock for years now, so his efforts are sometimes underappreciated. For those of you who were unable to watch tonight's match, I cannot stress to you enough how important Mr. Reliable was to gaining the point. He made some spectacular saves and cannot be blamed for the Guatemalan goal because the free kick went right over the wall and didn't seem enter Howard's line of sight until it was too late to stop it from hitting the back of the net.
3. The US sits atop Group A at four points
Through two qualifying matches, the US and Jamaica both have four points, but the US leads the group based on goal differential. Guatemala and Antigua and Barbuda each now have one point. The next round of qualifying begins in September, when Jamaica hosts the US and then plays the return match in Columbus, while Guatemala hosts A&B and then plays there. As a reminder, the top two teams in this group will advance to the final round of World Cup 2014 qualifying. The US and Jamaica were considered the top two teams in this group coming into this semifinal round of qualifying, so these upcoming matches should be very entertaining.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Friday, June 8, 2012
USMNT Wins World Cup Qualification Opener
The USMNT defeated Antigua and Barbuda by a 3-1 score earlier this evening to begin the semifinal round of World Cup Qualifying. Along with the US and A&B, Jamaica and Guatemala make up Group A. The top two teams in each of three groups will qualify for the final round of WCQ. Teams will each play each other twice, once on the road and once at home, and the two teams with the most points (three for a win, one for a draw) will advance.
Despite the victory, tonight's match did not leave me with a great taste in my mouth. The US started off well, with a Carlos Bocanegra header putting them on the board early. A late first-half penalty kick by Clint Dempsey gave the boys a 2-0 lead and things looked fairly comfortable. A&B kept it recently close despite giving up more than a dozen corner kicks and they capitalized on a poor play by substitute centerback Oguchi Onyewu to make it a game. Herculez Gomez closed out the scoring with what can only be called an "effort goal," as he and Michael Bradley fought through the packed in defense to get the ball in a spot for Gomez to tap the ball into the open net.
My three positive takes from tonight:
1. Herculez Gomez impressed once again
Gomez not only scored the third goal of the night for the US, but he also came very close to tallying goals on two other occasions in the second half. His header was expertly saved by the A&B keeper and his rocket off a nice feed from Landon Donovan smacked the crossbar. Gomez also came back to the midfield area and contributed solid defense throughout the night. He is certainly pushing Jozy Altidore for playing time and will not give up his starting spot easily.
2. Carlos Bocanegra and Clarence Goodson gave solid performances
Goodson was the man of the match in the draw at Canada and Bocanegra was my man of the match tonight. Not only did Bocanegra score the first goal, but he came very close to assisting on a second-half goal and solidified the backfield both as a centerback and then at left back after an ankle injury forced Jose Torres to leave the match. With injuries to Fabian Johnson and Edgar Castillo, it looks like Bocanegra will have to play left back in Tuesday's qualifier, which will put more pressure on Goodson to hold down the fort in the middle of the defense. Hopefully we have seen the last of Onyewu, as he looks slow and has made some very poor decisions. Look for Geoff Cameron to be paired with Goodson in front of Tim Howard on Tuesday.
3. Terrence Boyd is cap tied
Boyd is a talented 21-year old forward who currently plays for a second division club in Germany and holds dual citizenship in Germany and the US, so coming into tonight's match he was still eligible to play for either country. After tonight's appearance in an official international competition, Boyd can only play for the US - what is known by FIFA rules as "cap tied." Boyd's development will be closely watched, as he should be paired up front with Altidore after the Dempsey/Donovan era ends (which will likely happen after the 2014 World Cup).
Qualifying resumes on Tuesday night, as the US travels to Guatemala in what should be a rather hostile environment.
Despite the victory, tonight's match did not leave me with a great taste in my mouth. The US started off well, with a Carlos Bocanegra header putting them on the board early. A late first-half penalty kick by Clint Dempsey gave the boys a 2-0 lead and things looked fairly comfortable. A&B kept it recently close despite giving up more than a dozen corner kicks and they capitalized on a poor play by substitute centerback Oguchi Onyewu to make it a game. Herculez Gomez closed out the scoring with what can only be called an "effort goal," as he and Michael Bradley fought through the packed in defense to get the ball in a spot for Gomez to tap the ball into the open net.
My three positive takes from tonight:
1. Herculez Gomez impressed once again
Gomez not only scored the third goal of the night for the US, but he also came very close to tallying goals on two other occasions in the second half. His header was expertly saved by the A&B keeper and his rocket off a nice feed from Landon Donovan smacked the crossbar. Gomez also came back to the midfield area and contributed solid defense throughout the night. He is certainly pushing Jozy Altidore for playing time and will not give up his starting spot easily.
2. Carlos Bocanegra and Clarence Goodson gave solid performances
Goodson was the man of the match in the draw at Canada and Bocanegra was my man of the match tonight. Not only did Bocanegra score the first goal, but he came very close to assisting on a second-half goal and solidified the backfield both as a centerback and then at left back after an ankle injury forced Jose Torres to leave the match. With injuries to Fabian Johnson and Edgar Castillo, it looks like Bocanegra will have to play left back in Tuesday's qualifier, which will put more pressure on Goodson to hold down the fort in the middle of the defense. Hopefully we have seen the last of Onyewu, as he looks slow and has made some very poor decisions. Look for Geoff Cameron to be paired with Goodson in front of Tim Howard on Tuesday.
3. Terrence Boyd is cap tied
Boyd is a talented 21-year old forward who currently plays for a second division club in Germany and holds dual citizenship in Germany and the US, so coming into tonight's match he was still eligible to play for either country. After tonight's appearance in an official international competition, Boyd can only play for the US - what is known by FIFA rules as "cap tied." Boyd's development will be closely watched, as he should be paired up front with Altidore after the Dempsey/Donovan era ends (which will likely happen after the 2014 World Cup).
Qualifying resumes on Tuesday night, as the US travels to Guatemala in what should be a rather hostile environment.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Euro 2012 Preview and Predictions
We are less than 24 hours from the start of the year's most exciting and entertaining soccer tournament, Euro 2012. 16 of Europe's best national teams will play for a title that is contested every four years. ESPN's family of networks will carry every match of this year's tournament, which is being co-hosted by Poland and Ukraine.
Below are my previews and predictions for each group in the order I see them finishing, and my predictions all the way to the final. Each country's FIFA World Ranking is in parentheses.
Group A - Russia (13), Czech Republic (27), Poland (62), Greece (15)
Russia is the class of this group and is coming off an impressive 3-0 thumping of Italy in a recent tuneup friendly. Czech Republic is widely seen as being on the down swing, but its veteran squad might be up for one last run. Poland and Greece kickoff the tournament Friday, and Poland will likely ride the home crowd support to an early victory to put Greece in trouble from the get go...but much like South Africa in the 2010 World Cup that wave of emotion will not last long enough.
Group B - Germany (3), Netherlands (4), Portugal (10), Denmark (9)
Undoubtedly the best group in this competition. Germany has a very young and talented squad with some of the finest players in this tournament and one of the most talented goalkeepers in the world. Netherlands fields a strong and balanced squad, but they will be challenged by Portugal and Denmark. Don't look for many blowouts in this group. If Cristiano Ronaldo can get into some open space in the Netherlands-Portugal match, they can pull off an upset and throw the entire tournament for a loop. In the end, I think this group will mostly go as the rankings dictate.
Group C - Spain (1), Italy (12), Croatia (8), Ireland (18)
Defending champion Spain is the class of the tournament and none of its groupmates compete with their firepower on paper. Italy is dealing with another match-fixing scandal, but they rallied together and overcame similar off-field issues to win the 2006 World Cup. There is no doubt they will try to leverage a similar "Us against the World" mantra. Croatia could be the cinderella story of the tournament if they can beat a tough Ireland squad in the first match.
Group D - England (6), France (14), Ukraine (52), Sweden (17)
England and France both have undergone heavy turnover since the last World Cup, changing coaches and operating philosophies. The top spot will be heavily contested; England has looked good since Roy Hodgson took over the reins and the French are out for some vindication after an embarrassing 2010 World Cup. Co-host Ukraine could make life miserable for its groupmates, but I don't think have enough to advance past the group stage, and Sweden does not have enough starpower to keep up with the rest.
Quarterfinals
Netherlands over Russia - Russia will play a pack it in and counterattack style against the high-caliber offense of the Dutch, but that won't work over 90 minutes.
Spain over France - France will give Spain a good match in the first half, but the second half will be too much for Les Blues to stop.
Germany over Czech Republic - The easiest draw of the quarterfinalists, Germany will have no trouble dismantling its opponent here.
Italy over England - What should be the closest match of the quarterfinals, though likely not the most entertaining given Italy's defensive-minded approach, will likely be won on penalty kicks.
Semifinals
Spain over Netherlands - This could be the most entertaining match of the tournament, as both squads love to run up and down the pitch and move the ball around with impressive speed and motion. We could easily see a 4-3, back and forth match, but in the end the best midfield in the world will win out.
Germany over Italy - These traditional rivals once again will play in a heated affair, but Italy does not have the offensive threats possessed by Germany and will not be able to keep up its defense-first mentality once Germany gets on the scoreboard.
Finals
Spain over Germany - You can't ask for much more than the first and third ranked teams in the world playing in this final (especially since the #2 team, Uruguay, is not in Europe!) so this would be a great way to decide the Euro 2012 champion. Both teams have great talent at forward, feature the two best midfields in the world, and have some holes in their defense which could lead to a high scoring final. If it comes down to which team is hungrier, that has to be Germany given their close calls to winning many international tournaments in recent years. But Spain's core has been through this before and that will carry the best team in the world to a repeat championship.
Please comment and share your predictions...and enjoy some great soccer over the next month!
Below are my previews and predictions for each group in the order I see them finishing, and my predictions all the way to the final. Each country's FIFA World Ranking is in parentheses.
Group A - Russia (13), Czech Republic (27), Poland (62), Greece (15)
Russia is the class of this group and is coming off an impressive 3-0 thumping of Italy in a recent tuneup friendly. Czech Republic is widely seen as being on the down swing, but its veteran squad might be up for one last run. Poland and Greece kickoff the tournament Friday, and Poland will likely ride the home crowd support to an early victory to put Greece in trouble from the get go...but much like South Africa in the 2010 World Cup that wave of emotion will not last long enough.
Group B - Germany (3), Netherlands (4), Portugal (10), Denmark (9)
Undoubtedly the best group in this competition. Germany has a very young and talented squad with some of the finest players in this tournament and one of the most talented goalkeepers in the world. Netherlands fields a strong and balanced squad, but they will be challenged by Portugal and Denmark. Don't look for many blowouts in this group. If Cristiano Ronaldo can get into some open space in the Netherlands-Portugal match, they can pull off an upset and throw the entire tournament for a loop. In the end, I think this group will mostly go as the rankings dictate.
Group C - Spain (1), Italy (12), Croatia (8), Ireland (18)
Defending champion Spain is the class of the tournament and none of its groupmates compete with their firepower on paper. Italy is dealing with another match-fixing scandal, but they rallied together and overcame similar off-field issues to win the 2006 World Cup. There is no doubt they will try to leverage a similar "Us against the World" mantra. Croatia could be the cinderella story of the tournament if they can beat a tough Ireland squad in the first match.
Group D - England (6), France (14), Ukraine (52), Sweden (17)
England and France both have undergone heavy turnover since the last World Cup, changing coaches and operating philosophies. The top spot will be heavily contested; England has looked good since Roy Hodgson took over the reins and the French are out for some vindication after an embarrassing 2010 World Cup. Co-host Ukraine could make life miserable for its groupmates, but I don't think have enough to advance past the group stage, and Sweden does not have enough starpower to keep up with the rest.
Quarterfinals
Netherlands over Russia - Russia will play a pack it in and counterattack style against the high-caliber offense of the Dutch, but that won't work over 90 minutes.
Spain over France - France will give Spain a good match in the first half, but the second half will be too much for Les Blues to stop.
Germany over Czech Republic - The easiest draw of the quarterfinalists, Germany will have no trouble dismantling its opponent here.
Italy over England - What should be the closest match of the quarterfinals, though likely not the most entertaining given Italy's defensive-minded approach, will likely be won on penalty kicks.
Semifinals
Spain over Netherlands - This could be the most entertaining match of the tournament, as both squads love to run up and down the pitch and move the ball around with impressive speed and motion. We could easily see a 4-3, back and forth match, but in the end the best midfield in the world will win out.
Germany over Italy - These traditional rivals once again will play in a heated affair, but Italy does not have the offensive threats possessed by Germany and will not be able to keep up its defense-first mentality once Germany gets on the scoreboard.
Finals
Spain over Germany - You can't ask for much more than the first and third ranked teams in the world playing in this final (especially since the #2 team, Uruguay, is not in Europe!) so this would be a great way to decide the Euro 2012 champion. Both teams have great talent at forward, feature the two best midfields in the world, and have some holes in their defense which could lead to a high scoring final. If it comes down to which team is hungrier, that has to be Germany given their close calls to winning many international tournaments in recent years. But Spain's core has been through this before and that will carry the best team in the world to a repeat championship.
Please comment and share your predictions...and enjoy some great soccer over the next month!
Sunday, June 3, 2012
USMNT Draws with Canada in Final Tuneup Before World Cup Qualifying
The USMNT played a scoreless draw against Canada this evening in its final tuneup before World Cup Qualifying begins later this week. The match didn't feature nearly the excitement of the last two friendlies - a blowout win over Scotland and an entertaining defeat at the hands of Brazil where the US could not capitalize on many opportunities. The US mostly looked like an uninspired group tonight, likely due to fatigue as a result of this being their third match in nine days.
Here are my three positives from tonight's match:
1. Clarence Goodson solidified his place in the starting lineup with a stellar performance
There is no doubt who the man of the match was tonight. Clarence Goodson watched as Geoff Cameron and Oguchi Onyewu struggled at centerback alongside captain Carlos Bocanegra in the past two games. Goodson shined in the US victory against Italy in February, but had not seen much action on the national team since. Tonight, Goodson showed poise in the backfield and came closest to scoring, as his header in stoppage time forced the save of the night from Canada's goalkeeper. Klinsmann should partner Goodson with Bocanegra at centerback for the upcoming qualifiers.
2. Jozy Altidore finally got onto the pitchThe drama surrounding Jozy Altidore's release from his Dutch club team to suit up for the USMNT is finally over, as he joined the squad for training a few days ago. He came on as a substitute in the second half tonight and looked active with a few touches and releases down the pitch despite a lack of significant ball movement from the midfield. It will be interesting to see the starting lineup Klinsmann uses in the qualifiers, as Altidore could start or be used as a substitute forward to spell Herculez Gomez.
3. The friendlies are over and World Cup Qualifying begins Friday
Even the most committed fans of the USMNT have to admit that they are over these international friendlies and ready for real, compeitive matches that truly mean something. You got the sense Klinsmann felt that way tonight when he substituted out Landon Donovan in the second half. No way does Klinsmann take out one of his top players in a scoreless match when it counts. We should see a different level of passion and commitment from this team on Friday when they take on Antigua and Barbuda in the first qualifying match for the 2014 World Cup.
Here are my three positives from tonight's match:
1. Clarence Goodson solidified his place in the starting lineup with a stellar performance
There is no doubt who the man of the match was tonight. Clarence Goodson watched as Geoff Cameron and Oguchi Onyewu struggled at centerback alongside captain Carlos Bocanegra in the past two games. Goodson shined in the US victory against Italy in February, but had not seen much action on the national team since. Tonight, Goodson showed poise in the backfield and came closest to scoring, as his header in stoppage time forced the save of the night from Canada's goalkeeper. Klinsmann should partner Goodson with Bocanegra at centerback for the upcoming qualifiers.
2. Jozy Altidore finally got onto the pitchThe drama surrounding Jozy Altidore's release from his Dutch club team to suit up for the USMNT is finally over, as he joined the squad for training a few days ago. He came on as a substitute in the second half tonight and looked active with a few touches and releases down the pitch despite a lack of significant ball movement from the midfield. It will be interesting to see the starting lineup Klinsmann uses in the qualifiers, as Altidore could start or be used as a substitute forward to spell Herculez Gomez.
3. The friendlies are over and World Cup Qualifying begins Friday
Even the most committed fans of the USMNT have to admit that they are over these international friendlies and ready for real, compeitive matches that truly mean something. You got the sense Klinsmann felt that way tonight when he substituted out Landon Donovan in the second half. No way does Klinsmann take out one of his top players in a scoreless match when it counts. We should see a different level of passion and commitment from this team on Friday when they take on Antigua and Barbuda in the first qualifying match for the 2014 World Cup.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Glimmers of Hope in USMNT Loss to Brazil
The USMNT lost a 4-1 friendly to Brazil in front of more than 67,000 fans at FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland, tonight. While the scoreline isn't good news, there were some things to be optimistic about from tonight's World Cup qualifying tune-up. The US certainly created some scoring chances, including a header off the crossbar and a handful of other shots that forced spectacular saves from Brazilian goalkeeper Rafael.
Here are my three positives from tonight's match:
1. The USMNT looks to have found its left back of the future in Fabian Johnson
Coming into this five-match stretch for the US, much of the news surrounding the defensemen was negative due to Timmy Chandler turning down an invitation to camp. It is widely believed Chandler is hoping for an invitation to play for the German national team, as his father is American and mother is German. Once a player plays in an official competition (non-friendly) then that player cannot switch national team allegiance. Chandler has only played in friendlies for the US, so he could still switch to Germany if he is invited to play for them. With qualifying matches looming, Chandler's choice is suspicious, yet predictable.
Chandler's absence has opened the door for Fabian Johnson, a 24-year old who plays for Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga. Johnson has sparked the US at left back over the last two matches. Tonight, he earned an assist on Herculez Gomez's goal and helped in created other scoring chances. Johnson plays with flair and is very offensive-minded, not surprising considering he has played significant minutes in the midfield for Hoffenheim. Left back has been a weak point for the US in recent years, so Johnson's continued rise will be critical to the future of this club moving forward as Jurgen Klinsmann prefers outside backs that are able to push the attack.
2. Michael Bradley continues to be a major contributor in the midfield
I applauded Bradley's effort against Scotland, though understandably he was overshadowed by Landon Donovan's hat-trick night. Against Brazil, Bradley once again was effective, though he was deployed in a more defensive-minded position than in the previous match. When Bradley was able to advance up the pitch he was a significant factor, including his service to Johnson that led to the Gomez goal. Bradley also had a solid header saved by Brazil's keeper. It is easy to forget that Bradley is still only 24 years old. There is no doubt he is becoming a leader on this team and could see many suitors for his club team services before the upcoming season.
3. Herculez Gomez shows flashes of a top-flight striker
The forward position for the US looked to be in good hands in recent weeks, as Clint Dempsey and Jozy Altidore posted significant scoring seasons in the EPL and top Dutch league, respectively. Lost in the shuffle, however, was the amazing run of Herculez Gomez. Gomez was sold to Santos Laguna in Mexico's top league six months ago, and he proceeded to go on a run of 11 goals over 12 matches helping lead his team to the second-half league championship and runner-up in the CONCACAF Champions League. Gomez impressed tonight, scoring a goal and nearly assisting Clint Dempsey on one of many scoring chances thwarted by the Brazilian goalkeeper. He could press for playing time in qualifying matches, maybe as a substitute for Altidore when the US needs more energy as Altidore rarely is able to give a full 90 at a high work rate.
Again, there were some positive signs from tonight's loss. It will be interesting to see how the US reacts in its next match this Sunday vs Canada in Toronto, the final tune-up before qualifying for the 2014 World Cup begins on June 8.
Here are my three positives from tonight's match:
1. The USMNT looks to have found its left back of the future in Fabian Johnson
Coming into this five-match stretch for the US, much of the news surrounding the defensemen was negative due to Timmy Chandler turning down an invitation to camp. It is widely believed Chandler is hoping for an invitation to play for the German national team, as his father is American and mother is German. Once a player plays in an official competition (non-friendly) then that player cannot switch national team allegiance. Chandler has only played in friendlies for the US, so he could still switch to Germany if he is invited to play for them. With qualifying matches looming, Chandler's choice is suspicious, yet predictable.
Chandler's absence has opened the door for Fabian Johnson, a 24-year old who plays for Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga. Johnson has sparked the US at left back over the last two matches. Tonight, he earned an assist on Herculez Gomez's goal and helped in created other scoring chances. Johnson plays with flair and is very offensive-minded, not surprising considering he has played significant minutes in the midfield for Hoffenheim. Left back has been a weak point for the US in recent years, so Johnson's continued rise will be critical to the future of this club moving forward as Jurgen Klinsmann prefers outside backs that are able to push the attack.
2. Michael Bradley continues to be a major contributor in the midfield
I applauded Bradley's effort against Scotland, though understandably he was overshadowed by Landon Donovan's hat-trick night. Against Brazil, Bradley once again was effective, though he was deployed in a more defensive-minded position than in the previous match. When Bradley was able to advance up the pitch he was a significant factor, including his service to Johnson that led to the Gomez goal. Bradley also had a solid header saved by Brazil's keeper. It is easy to forget that Bradley is still only 24 years old. There is no doubt he is becoming a leader on this team and could see many suitors for his club team services before the upcoming season.
3. Herculez Gomez shows flashes of a top-flight striker
The forward position for the US looked to be in good hands in recent weeks, as Clint Dempsey and Jozy Altidore posted significant scoring seasons in the EPL and top Dutch league, respectively. Lost in the shuffle, however, was the amazing run of Herculez Gomez. Gomez was sold to Santos Laguna in Mexico's top league six months ago, and he proceeded to go on a run of 11 goals over 12 matches helping lead his team to the second-half league championship and runner-up in the CONCACAF Champions League. Gomez impressed tonight, scoring a goal and nearly assisting Clint Dempsey on one of many scoring chances thwarted by the Brazilian goalkeeper. He could press for playing time in qualifying matches, maybe as a substitute for Altidore when the US needs more energy as Altidore rarely is able to give a full 90 at a high work rate.
Again, there were some positive signs from tonight's loss. It will be interesting to see how the US reacts in its next match this Sunday vs Canada in Toronto, the final tune-up before qualifying for the 2014 World Cup begins on June 8.
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Donovan Hat Trick Leads USMNT Over Scotland
The USMNT defeated Scotland, 5-1, in an international friendly this evening. More than 44,000 packed the stands in Jacksonville, FL, and they and the rest of us fans of the stars and strips were treated to some of the most entertaining soccer played by the US in many years. Here are my quick takes on tonight's match:
Landon Donovan makes this team a LOT better - Despite missing two of its best scoring options (Jozy Altidore and Clint Dempsey both did not suit up but should be in the lineup before World Cup Qualifying starts in June), the US offense played a very open and attacking style. Much of that was due to Donovan's presence on the right wing for the first time in eight months. Donovan scored three times and had an assist, and he was around the ball often. The US's best strategy moving forward is the 4-3-3 formation they employed tonight, with Donovan on the right wing and placing Dempsey on the left wing and Altidore up top. That lineup will be quite formidable.
The key to USMNT success is in the midfield - While many will talk about Donovan's return to the lineup, you cannot say enough good things about the play of Michael Bradley and Jermaine Jones in the midfield tonight. They controlled possession for long stretches of the first 60 minutes when the match was still up for grabs. Both Bradley and Jones also tallied goals, with Bradley's golazo in the first half ranking up there with one of the best goals we have seen from an American in quite a while, and Jones heading home a beautiful cross from Donovan. Bradley and Jones both also were credited with assists on Donovan goals. This midfield tandem will be crucial to the upcoming World Cup qualifying run.
Confidence is building with Brazil on the horizon - The US dominated all aspects of tonight's match against a decent Scotland squad. Next up for the stars and stripes is Brazil on Wednesday, which will come in with much more talent and technical skill. There is no doubt the US is riding a nice wave of positive momentum, and we could see Altidore, Dempsey, and Donovan on the field together for the first time in the Jurgen Klinsmann era. Tonight's entertaining victory only added to the energy building toward the USA-Brazil friendly.
Landon Donovan makes this team a LOT better - Despite missing two of its best scoring options (Jozy Altidore and Clint Dempsey both did not suit up but should be in the lineup before World Cup Qualifying starts in June), the US offense played a very open and attacking style. Much of that was due to Donovan's presence on the right wing for the first time in eight months. Donovan scored three times and had an assist, and he was around the ball often. The US's best strategy moving forward is the 4-3-3 formation they employed tonight, with Donovan on the right wing and placing Dempsey on the left wing and Altidore up top. That lineup will be quite formidable.
The key to USMNT success is in the midfield - While many will talk about Donovan's return to the lineup, you cannot say enough good things about the play of Michael Bradley and Jermaine Jones in the midfield tonight. They controlled possession for long stretches of the first 60 minutes when the match was still up for grabs. Both Bradley and Jones also tallied goals, with Bradley's golazo in the first half ranking up there with one of the best goals we have seen from an American in quite a while, and Jones heading home a beautiful cross from Donovan. Bradley and Jones both also were credited with assists on Donovan goals. This midfield tandem will be crucial to the upcoming World Cup qualifying run.
Confidence is building with Brazil on the horizon - The US dominated all aspects of tonight's match against a decent Scotland squad. Next up for the stars and stripes is Brazil on Wednesday, which will come in with much more talent and technical skill. There is no doubt the US is riding a nice wave of positive momentum, and we could see Altidore, Dempsey, and Donovan on the field together for the first time in the Jurgen Klinsmann era. Tonight's entertaining victory only added to the energy building toward the USA-Brazil friendly.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
USMNT Gearing Up For World Cup Qualifying
The USMNT is currently training for a grueling stretch of five matches in two and a half weeks that includes three friendlies and the first two matches of semifinal round qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. For the first time in Jurgen Klinsmann's tenure as head coach of the squad, the roster is filled with most of the top American players. Below I look at the five upcoming matches, as well as my preferred starting lineup with this group.
Upcoming Schedule:
May 26 vs Scotland in Jacksonville, FL (8 p.m. eastern, NBC Sports Network, Galavision)
The first test for the Stars & Stripes is the 48th ranked squad in the world. Scotland has not qualified for the World Cup since 1998, but it boasts many players on the roster of top-flight teams and has a strong midfield, including captain Darren Fletcher (Manchester United) and Charlie Adam (Liverpool).
May 26 vs Brazil in Landover, MD (8 p.m. eastern, ESPN2, ESPN3, TeleFutura)
The biggest test for the Americans is likely to come from Brazil, which is ranked sixth in the world. Brazil has already qualified for the World Cup in 2014 as host and is the most successful team in the history of the World Cup with five trophies. Brazil is bringing a very talented squad to play in this match, so it should be a good barometer of where the U.S. is - and needs to be - in order to contend in 2014.
June 3 vs Canada in Toronto (7 p.m. eastern, NBC Sports Network, Univision Deportes)
The final tune-up before World Cup qualifying will be played against our friends from the north, currently ranked 74th in the world. Canada seems to be improving as a soccer nation, as evidenced by their win over the U.S. in Olympic qualifying, but this will be a big test for them on the senior national team level. The mapleleafs will be led by forward Dwayne De Rosario, a talented but enigmatic forward currently playing for D.C. United in MLS. De Rosario is tied atop the all-time scoring list in Canadian soccer history with 19 international goals.
June 8 vs Antigua & Barbuda in Tampa, FL (7 p.m. eastern, ESPN, ESPN3, Galavision)
The semifinal round of World Cup qualifying begins at home for the U.S. against Antigua & Barbuda, ranked 84th in the world. A&B has never qualified for the World Cup and does not have anyone on their roster playing in a top-flight league, so the U.S. will look to build confidence and start the round off strong here.
June 12 vs Guatemala in Guatemala City (10 p.m. eastern, pay-per-view)
The 89th ranked team in the world does not pose much of a challenge on paper, but it is always difficult to win a World Cup qualifier on the road. Guatemala has never qualified for the World Cup, but they have advanced to the final round of qualification four times. The most well known player for Guatemala is its captain and all-time leading scorer Carlos Ruiz, who was a successful forward in the MLS for years.
Roster:
Below is the full U.S. roster called up for these matches as of today, with club teams in parentheses. Though I think many on this roster should be given significant playing time during this stretch of matches, I have bolded the 11 players I think Klinsmann should put in the starting line-up for the first WCQ match on June 8:
GOALKEEPERS (3): Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Tim Howard (Everton), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake)
Upcoming Schedule:
May 26 vs Scotland in Jacksonville, FL (8 p.m. eastern, NBC Sports Network, Galavision)
The first test for the Stars & Stripes is the 48th ranked squad in the world. Scotland has not qualified for the World Cup since 1998, but it boasts many players on the roster of top-flight teams and has a strong midfield, including captain Darren Fletcher (Manchester United) and Charlie Adam (Liverpool).
May 26 vs Brazil in Landover, MD (8 p.m. eastern, ESPN2, ESPN3, TeleFutura)
The biggest test for the Americans is likely to come from Brazil, which is ranked sixth in the world. Brazil has already qualified for the World Cup in 2014 as host and is the most successful team in the history of the World Cup with five trophies. Brazil is bringing a very talented squad to play in this match, so it should be a good barometer of where the U.S. is - and needs to be - in order to contend in 2014.
June 3 vs Canada in Toronto (7 p.m. eastern, NBC Sports Network, Univision Deportes)
The final tune-up before World Cup qualifying will be played against our friends from the north, currently ranked 74th in the world. Canada seems to be improving as a soccer nation, as evidenced by their win over the U.S. in Olympic qualifying, but this will be a big test for them on the senior national team level. The mapleleafs will be led by forward Dwayne De Rosario, a talented but enigmatic forward currently playing for D.C. United in MLS. De Rosario is tied atop the all-time scoring list in Canadian soccer history with 19 international goals.
June 8 vs Antigua & Barbuda in Tampa, FL (7 p.m. eastern, ESPN, ESPN3, Galavision)
The semifinal round of World Cup qualifying begins at home for the U.S. against Antigua & Barbuda, ranked 84th in the world. A&B has never qualified for the World Cup and does not have anyone on their roster playing in a top-flight league, so the U.S. will look to build confidence and start the round off strong here.
June 12 vs Guatemala in Guatemala City (10 p.m. eastern, pay-per-view)
The 89th ranked team in the world does not pose much of a challenge on paper, but it is always difficult to win a World Cup qualifier on the road. Guatemala has never qualified for the World Cup, but they have advanced to the final round of qualification four times. The most well known player for Guatemala is its captain and all-time leading scorer Carlos Ruiz, who was a successful forward in the MLS for years.
Roster:
Below is the full U.S. roster called up for these matches as of today, with club teams in parentheses. Though I think many on this roster should be given significant playing time during this stretch of matches, I have bolded the 11 players I think Klinsmann should put in the starting line-up for the first WCQ match on June 8:
GOALKEEPERS (3): Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Tim Howard (Everton), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake)
DEFENDERS (8): Carlos Bocanegra (Rangers), Geoff Cameron (Houston Dynamo), Edgar Castillo (Club Tijuana), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96), Clarence Goodson (Brondby), Alfredo Morales (Hertha Berlin), Oguchi Onyewu (Sporting Lisbon), Michael Parkhurst (Nordsjaelland)
MIDFIELDERS (9): Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Michael Bradley (Chievo Verona), Joe Corona (Club Tijuana), Maurice Edu (Rangers), Fabian Johnson (Hoffenheim), Jermaine Jones (Schalke 04), Jose Torres (Pachuca), Danny Williams (Hoffenheim), Graham Zusi (Sporting Kansas City)
FORWARDS (7): Juan Agudelo (Chivas USA), Jozy Altidore (AZ Alkmaar), Terrence Boyd (Borussia Dortmund), Clint Dempsey (Fulham), Landon Donovan (LA Galaxy), Herculez Gomez (Santos), Chris Wondolowski (San Jose Earthquakes)
The way this line-up would shake out is basically as a 4-3-3 with Donovan and Dempsey as playmakers in front of the midfield, and Altidore sometimes alone up front as a holding forward to allow those two some room to make something happen.
GK: Howard
LB: Bocanegra
CB: Onyewu, Goodson
RB: Cherundolo
MF: Bradley, Jones, Edu
F: Altidore, Dempsey, Donovan
What are your thoughts about these upcoming matches? Who would you like to see get a shot in the starting XI?
The way this line-up would shake out is basically as a 4-3-3 with Donovan and Dempsey as playmakers in front of the midfield, and Altidore sometimes alone up front as a holding forward to allow those two some room to make something happen.
GK: Howard
LB: Bocanegra
CB: Onyewu, Goodson
RB: Cherundolo
MF: Bradley, Jones, Edu
F: Altidore, Dempsey, Donovan
What are your thoughts about these upcoming matches? Who would you like to see get a shot in the starting XI?
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