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Soccer Goals: If you would have told Wilmer Cabrera that the u-17 USMNT would be up a goal and have a one-man advantage against Spain in the fourth minute, he probably would suggested that it was an ideal scenario. However, the U-17 bunch squandered their numerous opportunities and allowed Spain to score two goals in a eight minute span due to an unorganized US back line.

 

To make matters worse, the Spanish national team appeared the better side during long stretches of the game, despite playing with only ten men.  Spain benefited from their ball composure and swift counter attacking which kept the back line off guard all evening.

 

Pressuring their rival, the US blasted out of the gates in part to a Gil defense-splitting pass to Jack McInerney, who was tackled from behind by a Spanish center back, resulting in a red card and an early shower.  Two minutes later, McInerney would score of a challenging header very reminiscent to Conor Casey's header against Honduras.

 

However, the US would never find an offensive rhythm, while the defensive organization faltered against the Spanish counter attack. In the 24th minute, Spanish forward Borja scored on an easy finish when the US center backs, Kitchen and Watts, were caught exposed in the offside trap, allowing Borja the easy tap-in goal. Five minutes later,  Spain would demonstrate its superior skill during a swift counter attack from a blistering Borja running-and-passing movement to set up a Sarabia wonder goal.

 

Still down a goal to the elite European team in the first half, the US squandered a perfect break-away opportunity when Stefan Jerome took a heavy touch 1v1 against Spain's keeper, Edgar. Subsequently, several additional poor touches would lead to his substitution in the second half.

 

The red, white and blue would continue to press for the equalizer but failed, when forward Victor Chavez was denied a goal on a break away 1v1 against the Spanish keeper. Sending numbers forward for offensive momentum, the ten-man Spanish team would not be denied clearing the box, giving the USA a little taste of their own medicine, the bitter pill that Spain swallowed in the Confederations Cup facing the USA.

 

Although this year's edition was touted as a new generation, which featured ball control and attacking qualities, the USA reverted to its previous form of lobbing passes and hustle play, a theme that was witnessed with the U-20 side in Egypt.

 

Player Grades

Earl Edwards, 6.5: did not receive help from his defense but made several timely saves.  With an improved back line, this keeper could demonstrate more of his shot keeping abilities.

 

Zachary Herald, 5.5: Struggled defensively in the first half, as he was caught out of position on the second goal but provided much needed flank energy in the second half.

 

Perry Kitchen, 4: A second half substitution confirmed that the US Captain produced a complete stinker in only 45 minutes. As soon as Zavaleta entered the game, Jared Watts found more chemistry than match.com and e-harmony combined. It is safe to say that changes in the back line could ensue in the upcoming match.

 

Jared Watts: 4.5: His faulty communication with Kitchen resulted in both goals as the US defense appeared disheveled during the first half. Watts distribution allowed the US to move the ball, but a better defensive effort must take place in the following games.

 

Tyler Polak, 6: Offered strong support and overlapping runs for Alex Shinsky. His set piece delivery exceeded all other teammates and should be assigned to all right-sided in-swinging corner kicks.

 

Alex Shinsky, 5.5: Hustled and made several penetrating runs into the box. However, his finishing and crossing suffered to maintain consistency as he squandered a 1v1 opportunity against the keeper.

 

Marlon Duran, 5: As the holding midfielder, he was unable to prevent or detain the Spanish counter attack  but did assist on the McInerney goal. The central midfield duo must provide better off-the-ball movement to spark the attack. Once Palodichuk moved into the holding role the midfield settled down.

 

Luis Gil, 6: Offered the probing pass to spring McInerney for the red card foul but his first half play faltered as the Spaniards controlled the midfield. In the second half, he began to express more of his technical side with visionary passing and attacking runs. In order for the US to succeed in the tournament, he must assume a greater leadership role in the offensive facets of the game.

 

Nick Palodichuk, 6: Fairly obscure in the first half, Palodichuk found success playing the holding midfielder role where he stifled the Spanish counter. His composure under pressure fared well in the second half -- perhaps his inclusion centrally signifies that Duran will find a place on the bench, which will usher in a new right winger debut.

 

Jack McInerny, 6.5: His first 20 minutes provided a glimpse of his speedy runs and pesty work rate, while scoring a goal and drawing a red card. However, his finishing and first touch resembled an aspect not seen in CONCACAF qualifying performances. Perhaps, Stefan Jerome's play factored into his poor play, but his game did not offer the same electric edge that he normally displays. His score would have been much higher if it wasn't for his failed touches.

 

Stefan Jerome, 4.5: What impressed about Jerome circa 2007, when he debuted for the U-17, was his speed, combined with strong finishing skills and 1v1 attacking prowess: Evaluating all these aspects, he laid a big stinker. His attacking attributes were neutralized by the Spanish defense, while the Spaniards matched the same speed and intensity that made him a coveted prospect. Although Victor Chavez replaced Jerome at half time, the substitute did little to supplant his elder. If Jerome does not produce at this tournament, his international club options could diminish in a matter of weeks.

 

Coach Wilmer Cabrera, 4.5: Admired by many for his attacking philosophy and aggressive nature, the U-17 just were not well prepared for this outing. Forgotten were the sunscreen, snacks, and water (you get the idea). The midfield poses the greatest concern heading forward -- they lacked the passing attributes that were evident previously -- and Spain's energy level exceeded those of the US. With over two years to prepare this team for this very moment, the US underachieved in a major way. At least with Rongen's failed U-20 squad, they were gifted little time to prepare -- the U-17s boasted at least 500 training sessions to work things out.

 

A definite must-see move would be to slot Nick Palodichuk centrally, where against the big boys, Marlon Duran does not cut it. Carlos Martinez should receive a starting spot after the poor performance, which will offer speed and attacking runs to unsettle the opposing defense. Hopefully, this is a wake-up call to alert our boys that the other nations will fight to the end. It is time for them to step up their game.

 

 Subs

Eriq Zavaleta, 6: Considering that the US first team defense was in shambles, the savvy defender injected a sense of organization into the back line. The question now remains: Will he supplant the captain in the middle?

 

Victor Chavez, 5: Provided additional energy but failed miserably on the finishing and creating front. His 1v1 opportunity against the keeper represented why the US did not earn the draw or victory. In a nutshell, the US' forwards must improve their finishing.

 

Dominick Sarle, 6: Provided extra energy as a third forward causing flank disorder with hustle and ambitious attacking sequences. However, his decision making and touch failed him on more than one occasion.

 

What did you think of the USMNT performance? Were you impressed by Spain's attacking qualities? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and soccer videos: U-17 USMNT loses 2-1 to Spain in stunning fashion - Player Grades

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