Soccer goals: When the USA scored two goals in the first half, the stars and stripes appeared destined to seal its second victory against Brazil. However, the USA conceded three goals in the second half to secure their third Confederations Cup. Clint Dempsey and Landon Donovan both scored goals to give the USA a 2-0 lead.
Clint Dempsey and Tim Howard received individual honors earning the Most Outstanding Player Bronze Ball and best Goalkeeper Glove, respectively. Although the USA did lose the match, they proved to their doubters and critics that the USA team warrants more respect than what they have garnered recently.
These Soccer Videos features Highlights of the USA vs Brazil. Enjoy!!!
Were you disappointed to see the USA lose? Were you proud of the effort? Will the USA play tough against Mexico? Share your thoughts.
Soccer Goals: If you are disappointed that Michael Bradley was dismissed with a red card at the end of the Spain match, you are not alone. But, let's take a minute to look at the positives of this development. The logical replacement for the energetic Bradley should be Benny Feilhaber. Although not gifted with the same motor as the Bundesliga central midfielder, Benny Feilhaber boasts his own special attributes against the speedy and dynamic Brazilians.
After struggling against Brazil in the first match up slotted to the right, the UCLA product will play in his more familiar role as a central midfielder where his possession and vision dictate the US' attack. Although Feilhaber struggled in the first half, his play improved in the second half as the USA began to mount a glimpse of an attack and when he was slotted centrally.
Another example of his successful pairing with Ricardo Clark transpired in the Honduras game where his vision, composure on the ball and passing allowed the USA to earn a 2-1 victory despite trailing during the majority of the first half. Against Italy, his diagonal pass to Jozy Altidore lead to the penalty kick, and his second half inclusion in the Spain game paid immediate dividends when he skated along the 18 yard box releasing Landon Donovan out wide allowing for the pass that scored the second goal and sealed the victory.
With Ricardo Clark's role defined as the holding midfielder (cover as much defensive space as possible and shadow Kaka and Robinho), Benny Feilhaber will embrace the opportunity to play strong defensively and maintain possession when the US recovers the ball. One advantage that the US attack boasts now which was not evident is a strong forward pairing that pressures its opponents with speed and tenacity. This additional threat will allow the US midfield more time on the ball and better possession.
If the USA earns an early goal against Brazil, the momentum and strategy could prove detrimental to the Brazilians who have yet to trail in a game during the Confederations Cup. Playing seven games in the last 21 days could signal an opportunity to counter on a team that could fatigue late in the game. Brazil's left flank emerges as another Achilles heel where Robinho is expected to cover the left wing defensively which he rarely does on a consistent basis. This gap and seam will allow the USA to attack the left back position regularly, a post assumed by either Andre Santos or Dani Alves.
So, what will the US need to do to earn the victory? First, it appears evident and important that coach Bradley continues with his 4-4-2 with Jozy Altidore and Charlie Davies at forwards igniting the attack. In addition, the US must maintain a compact formation, mirroring the one displayed in the Spain game. Thirdly, the US must maintain good possession and attack aggressively applying pressure on the Brazilian back line. Fourth, Landon Donovan and Carlos Bocanegra must limit Maicon's deadly overlapping runs and dangerous crosses. Subsequently, the center pairing of Jay Demerit and Oguchi Onyewu must clear all aerial crosses out of dangerous areas and mark their assignments tightly.
Drawing fouls in the Brazil's defensive third will allow the US to pressure the Brazil's ability on set piece defense and pose an additional scoring threat from the set piece specialists Dempsey, Onyewu, Bocanegra, and Demerit. An offensive scoring facet sorely missed in the first Brazilian match.
Here is a proposed lineup that Coach Bradley will field against the Samberos.
-----Altidore------Davies----
Donovan-Feilhaber-Clark-Dempsey
Bocanegra-Demerit-Onyewu-Spector
-----------Howard---------
If the USA falls behind, it is possible that the US would insert either the well-rested Freddy Adu or Francisco Torres. Since Conor Casey has yet to seperate himself from the rest of the forward pack, it is conceivable that Coach Bob Bradley opts for a dynamic offenisve player. Chasing the game down a goal could lead to defeat, playing into the hands of the Brazilian Coach Dunga who prefers to absorb pressure and counterattack with his pacey wingers.
If the Coach Bob Bradley decides that the 4-4-2 will not offer enough defensive coverage, it is possible that we could see the 4-2-3-1 formation to compensate Michael Bradley's absence.
--------Altidore---------
Donovan-Feilhaber-Dempsey
-----Kljestan----Clark------
Bocanegra-Onyewu-Demerit-Spector
----------Howard---------
This challenges that have confronted the USA during this tournament have formed a more cohesive unit and a deeper squad. It is hopeful that Coach Bradley has learned that his 4-4-2 gives the team the best chance of winning against Brazil. If the US loses, it will be expected. If they win, it will be another miracle.
What do you think of the formation? Will Coach Bob Bradley utilize a 4-4-2 or a 4-5-1 formation? Will the USA defeat Brazil? Or will it be deja vu all over again? Share your thoughts.
Soccer Goals: The USA continues to receive recognition for their heart-filled victory against the favored Spaniards on Wednesday. Landon Donovan gives us his thoughts of the performance and speaks about the opportunity to face Brazil in the Confederations Cup.
The USMNT will search for revenge being humiliated by Brazil 3-0. The USA will be forced to play without central midfielder Michael Bradley who was assessed a red card after an aggressive challenge on Xavi in the Confederations Cup Semi-final. Benny Feilhaber appears to be the replacement and can redeem himself after an average performance against Brazil.
This soccer videos provide additional coverage for the US' victory against Spain.
Will the USA defeat Brazil who struggled to dominate South Africa? Will the USA boast a chip on their shoulder after beiing humiliated by Brazil? Will Brazil enter the game overconfident? Share your thoughts.
Soccer Goals: With few believing that the USA could defeat the impenetrable Spanish side that were undefeated in 35 consecutive matches, several hours before the game I received a text message from a friend giving me a prediction of the USA vs Spain match: USA 2-1. While I snickered at the idea of the USA winning and hoping for the best, my logic reminded me that the USA were facing one of the greatest soccer teams of all time boasting a team resembling; Real Madrid, Barcelona, Chelsea, Manchester United, and Inter Milan.
This soccer video features highlights of the USA 2-0 victory against Spain.
Receiving a text from a friend that screams at the decision making of Coach Bradley who believes in an automatic starting position of Brian Ching seemed peculiar, coming from an opponent that has clamored for Bradley's head on several occasions. What transpired was even greater than he predicted, the USA won 2-0 in stunning fashion, limiting Spain's effective possession game and frustrating Xaxi throughout the game.
Heart, discipline, patience, grit, great tactics, and tireless work-rate are just a few words that describe how the US Men's National Team offered in the upset of the tournament. What became evident in the first 25 minutes was that the USA attacked Spain forcing them to track back and play a honest game. Charlie Davies' bicycle kick demonstrated that the USA were not satisfied to play in the semi-finals but to win, searching the for the "impossible" formula to victory.
Fielding a similar side that defeated Egypt 3-0, besides Bocanegra at left back and Tim Howard in goal, the US received a spark from Charlie Davies up top who utilized his speed to worry the Spanish back line that covered more ground than the pairing of Onyewu and Demerit. Although the speedy Hammarby forward began to fade in the second half, his work rate and ability to worry his defensive foes caused anarchy in Spain's final third, despite not allowing a goal all tournament.
The pairing of Oguchi Onyewu and Jay Demerit proved the key to victory neutralizing the Spanish attack and dominating aerially like Dikembe Mutombo in the paint; Not in my house wagged the finger. Timely anticipation stifled the Spanish progressive-passing game, stepping up to intercept passes that could have lead to scoring opportunities. The familiarity and chemistry of this central pairing has developed during the tournament, providing a ying-yang combination that allowed for a clean sheet.
Despite missing the group stage with injury, Carlos Bocanegra, the normal starting center-back and captain, slotted in at left back where he plies his trade in the French Ligue 1. Although his lack of game fitness and questionable hamstring caused reason for concern, the Rennes defender coped with the speed of Torres, David Villa, and Sergio Ramos. His defensive efforts coupled with his experience gave the USA a fighting chance to defeat the Goliath-esque favorite.
After watching several Spanish television shows, it has become evident that the USA has garnished a new respect. Several Mexican soccer shows are discussing the possibility of the USA entering Azteca and earning a result. Even Jim Rome, a soccer pessimist, recognized the accomplishments of the USA marking the win as a great victory although in a sarcastic way. Well, any publicity is good publicity. Could this victory inspire more novice viewers to tune in to watch the USA play on Sunday and lead to more potential fans?
If the USA repeat another strong semi-final performance against their upcoming opponent, the Brazilians who demolished the USA and Italy 3-0, the stars and stripes will continue to earn soccer street cred where most of the world sees the USA as a third-tier national team. A poor performance would suggest that the Spain game was an aberration, siting that Egypt performed poorly. A good performance by Davies, Donovan, Feilhaber, and Clark would draw additional attention to European clubs, proving that the US players can compete at the hightest level.
Congratulations to the USA on the heart-filled win and thanks to my friend who reminded me to keep the faith despite how bleak the situation appeared. Here are the players grades for USA vs Spain.
Player Grades
Tim Howard, 9: His defense gave him the confidence to shine against the Spaniards who were expected to score. Keeping a clean sheet against the Furia Roja is amazing, and his late first half save against Torres and Villa's bending ball signaled that the USA keeper was impenetrable.
Jonathan Spector, 7.5: Cool as a cucumber, the West Ham defender focused defensively for a majority of the game. When things appear dangerous, Spector delivers a calm and astute play. Keeping the speedy Riera and Mata in check further solidifies his future with the USMNT.
Oguchi Onyewu, 9: Dominated the air ways like a F-16, the giant center back denied access from both the ground and air. If the US would have played DHL, a law suit would have ensued as the opponent was unable to deliver its package or promise of victory. Timely anticipation of incisive passes frustrated the Spaniards for most of the game. Improved play invited more European suitors to join the Onyewu sweepstakes. Who will win?
Jay Demerit, 8.5: Partnering well with Onyewu and sacrificing his body to several strikes and attacks sums up the Wisconsin defender in a nutshell. His play warrants an opportunity to challenge for the third spot at center back. His distribution needs improvement as he launched several long balls without purpose, but his defense, hustle and heart compensated for any defeciencies. I originally was going to give him an 8 but decided that he deserved an extra half point for his play under pressure.
Carlos Bocanegra, 6.5: Facing speed galore is a difficult task playing left back while playing with a questionable hamstring. His gutsy play compensated for a void that exists at the left back position. Although the captain struggled with Torres, Villa, and Ramos' speed, he managed to keep the attackers in front of him for most of the game. With that said, most left backs would struggle against such difficult foes. Bocanegra should not be the answer at left back for the World Cup but played admirably.
Clint Dempsey, 7.5: disappeared offensively during stretches of the game but always remained loyal to his defensive duties. His deflected-assist gave the USA a 1-0 lead when Jozy Altidore caught Capdevilla and Casillas off guard. His presence around the six-yard box gave the USA the victory. For several months, I have been clamoring that Dempsey is not a true winger and shoul play centrally. As soon as he was deployed up top, he scored against Egypt and Spain. Is there any coincidence? His late game heroics demonstrated his Midas touch.
Ricardo Clark, 8: partnered well with Bradley and seems to have found the chemistry that plagued this partnership against England. With a defined and defensive role, the athletic midfielder proves that he deserves to play in the big games. His passing and distribution did not exceed the game against Egypt, overzealous to make the final pass, but his work-rate would have made Danielle De Rossi proud. Clark receives the opportunity to impress as the holding midfielder with Michael Bradley suspended for the Brazil final.
Michael Bradley, 7.0: played an excellent game stopping the Spanish attack and sparking the US counter attack quickly and with purpose. Blanketing Xavi and Fabregas offered a glimpse of his motor and ability to shut down marquee players. His defensive coverage yielded only one foul which resulted in a skeptical red card. His grade would have resulted in a lower score due to his red card, but his tenacity and importance to the team kept the Spaniards from scoring.
Landon Donovan, 8.5: focused and worked defensively while providing the essential touches in the counter attack. His pace, vision, and heart conjured up new European interest as he demonstrated his skill as one of the more dangerous players on the field. How US supporters question his heart is beyond me? The speedster has emerged as the catalyst for the offense and works the best in the midfield where he attacks players and draws additional defensive coverage.
Jozy Altidore, 7: experienced a moment of brilliance as he shielded off his club teammate Capdevilla for the first goal. Although he shows promise during stretches of the game, Altidore fades in-and-out of games with strong work-rate and then with lapses of concentration and effort. Let's not forget that he is only 19 years old. I am sure that the Spaniards will remember his age after Capdevilla was burnt twice by the man-child forward.
Charlie Davies, 8: Many might criticize me for this grade, but his energy, speed and work-rate caused disruption in the Spanish defense. His hold-up play and runs forced the slower Spanish defenders to focus on Davies. His aggressive approach has been essential to the last two victories: his bicycle kick resembled a thing of beauty. Although his game faded in the second half due to fatigue, Coach Bradley made the right decision to make the change. Let's hope that he makes another start against Brazil.
Coach Bob Bradley, 7.5: fielded the correct line-up and set up the perfect game plan for the USA. Although many did not believe that the USA would win, Bradley did. Fielding a 4-4-2 formation and attacking from the start suggested that the Coach would go for all the marbles; a lucha Libre. Inserting Feilhaber in the second half paid dividends as the Brazilian-born midfielder showed his technique and patience on the second goal, drawing defenders and passing to Donovan.
Subs
Benny Feilhaber, 7.5: offered great defensive coverage and displayed his comfort ability on the ball during the second goal. His wrap-around pass to himself on the flank gives hope that the formerly inconsistent midfielder will continue to earn playing time.
Jonathan Bornstein, N/A: limited playing time.
What do you think of the player grades? Who was Man of the Match? What was your favorite play of the game? Share your thoughts.
What will be your starting Xl for the Spain Game? Greg Lalas feels that the USA will field a 4-5-1 but would like to see the same formation that defeated Egypt 3-0. Although the likelihood of defeating the Furia Roja, the most dedicated US fan can hope and aspire that the USA will show heart regardless of the formation. A good showing would earn respect within the international community and could give confidence when facing Mexico on August 12th. Enjoy the soccer video.
This soccer video features analysis of the USA vs Spain semifinal by Extra Time.
What will the score be? Does the USA have a chance to win? Do you agree with Lalas? Share your thoughts.
Soccer Goals: Facing the current Giants of international soccer, Coach Bradley must consider and field the most ideal side to limit the Spain's attack. During this process, it is important that Coach Bradley ponders whether he goes with an attack minded team playing a 4-4-2 or instead opt for a 4-5-1 formation that will clog up the midfield limiting possession and attack.
If Coach Bradley decides on a 4-4-2, will he consider moving Clint Dempsey up top where he provided greater danger possibly pairing with Altidore or Davies? With Dempsey looking strong up top, is it feasible to slot Charlie Davies on the right wing to exploit his speed and decent crossing ability. With Davies offering high energy, tenacity, and speed, can Coach Bradley afford to omit the Hammarby forward from the starting Xl?
It is notable that if Dempsey is deployed at forward he will assume defensive duties and will be allowed to float in-and-out of the midfield. I will offer two variations of the 4-4-2 that could be utilized against Spain.
----Altidore----Dempsey---
Donovan-Bradley-Clark-Davies
Bornstein-Demerit-Onyewu-Spector
---------Howard---------
If Coach Bradley liked Davies' effort, than you could see the same 4-4-2 that was fielded against Egypt
--------Altidore------Davies
Donovan-Bradley-Clark-Dempsey
Bornstein-Onyewu-Demerit-Spector
---------Howard---------
Either 4-4-2 will allow for a more constant attack but will rely heavily upon the the US midfield to cover acres of space as Spain will possess for stretches during the game. The 4-4-2 will allow the USA to counter when Spain's fullbacks overlap. Earning fouls near the box will allow the USA to capitalize on their ability to score on set pieces. Jozy Altidore fares better when he has a partner up top than when he plays up top by himself.
If Bradley feels that the USA must complicate Spain's game by congesting the midfield, then the 4-5-1 should be the formation that he will field. If Altidore starts at forward, this formation will neutralize part of his game as he has yet to develop his hold-up play. Although he has experienced steady improvement since the tournament began, the man-child must increase his level of play for this match. The US' success in this formation will stem from his work rate and dangerous runs.
Deploying this formation does boasts its advantages. It will attempt to frustrate the Spaniards and their possession game with a five-man midfield and two defensive midfielders. Limiting the Spaniard's possession and time on the ball will diminish their opportunity to score goals. If the USA limits their turnovers in the midfield and maintain possession, Spain would be forced to play defense, a trait that normally is not attributed to their style, and could lead to frustration and fatigue.
Although the likelihood that the USA will conquer the Roja Furia proves low, the USA possesses the attributes to challenge Spain using their athleticism, defensive-oriented approach, and heart (the one witnessed against Egypt). Here is a potential line-up that I believe Coach Bradley will field if he plans to limit Spain's midfield possession.
--------Altidore---------
Donovan-Feilhaber-Dempsey
----Bradley----Clark
Bornstein-Demerit-Onyewu-Spector
---------Howard----------
Many suggest that the USA will fold under the pressure of playing the best in Spain. However, I believe that the USA will rise to the occasion losing 1-2 in extra time from a David Villa strike.
Do you agree with the formations? What formation would you go with a 4-4-2 or a 4-5-1? Will Davies make another start? Will Dempsey start up top? Share your thoughts.