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Soccer goals: Exhausted and gassed from the 120 minutes played against a full strength Panamanian side, the USA can take solace in the fact that they advance to the Gold Cup Semifinals, despite losing Jimmy Conrad to a concussion and conceding a late first half goal. The stars and stripes embraced the opportunity and offered a spirited second half performance, equalizing with a 16 yard near post strike by Kyle Beckerman.

 

These Soccer Videos feature highlights and interviews of the USA vs Panama game.

 

 

 

After scoring the goal, Kyle "Rasta" Beckerman celebrated like he had just won the 40 million power ball. His passion and dedication for the US crest symbolizes the mentality and attitude every player should have when representing the Red, White, and Blue. His spirited play would continue to pay dividends as he controlled the midfield with ball possession and incisive passing. The US' possession and numerous attacking sequences wore down a fatigued Panama which eventually lead to a midsection kick to Kenny Cooper, resulting in an extra time penalty.

 

Given his first international penalty kick attempt under extreme pressure, the Hulkster forward bounced his strike off the post bouncing into the goal. The goal would culminate with a joyous celebration, for all the hard work and numerous attacking sequences that the USA displayed, and a relief that the USA would advance to play Honduras in the Semi finals.

 

Feeling nervous and frustrated after discovering that the Starting Xl included both Logan Pause and Jay Heaps who had performed below expectations, it is apparent that they vindicated themselves for their previous performances with solid and consistent play. Jay Heaps provided a defensive stability and shielded his markers away from goal. Avoiding costly turnovers in dangerous areas, Logan Pause offered great work rate, defensive tenacity, and simple and calm passing.

 

Let's examine the US players that contributed to the Panama victory.

 

Player Grades USA vs Panama Gold Cup Quarter Finals 2009.

Troy Perkins, 7 - His timing off the line was impeccable, and his ability to read the game would have made most fortune tellers proud. This performance proved to be his best, wearing the red, white, and blue.   Although the goal was scored late in the half, his defensive comrades left him exposed, failing to man-mark.

 

Jay Heaps, 6 - demonstrated why he boasts over 300 MLS games to his resume. Although his national days are numbered, his performance vindicated his horrible play against Haiti. After such a strong showing, Heaps deserves to earn the start against Honduras. But, beware: Walter Martinez and Carlos Costly will prove to be a difficult tandem.

 

Jimmy Conrad, 6.5 - offered a first half glimpse of his veteran leadership and defensive control. Blas Perez disappeared into Gold Cup obscurity for the majority of the first half. Conrad's concussion was devastating and could have posed greater problems, if the USA would have not scored early in the second half.

 

Chad Marshall, 6 - Maintaining almost a perfect performance through three starts, the Crew defender failed his assignment late in the first half resulting in the Blas Perez goal. Marshall continues to prove his possible consideration for upcoming qualifiers. Despite missing his mark on the first goal, Marshall continues to offer composure, aerial dominance and great distribution under pressure.

 

Heath Pearce, 6.5 - shielded opponents from making dribble penetration into the box and denied service into the box, shadowing his assignments. His overlapping runs, composure, and offensive participation suggests that he can still compete at left back, while offering solid defensive attributes. His second half strike posed problems for the Panamanian keeper, Penedo.

 

Stuart Holden, 7 - Blossoming before our eyes, the Dynamo midfielder demonstrated a tireless work rate, composure on-the-ball, and great vision. His pass to Brian Ching should have resulted in a goal, but the header bounced off the post. With Sacha Kljestan struggling to start and DaMarcus Beasley in preseason form, Holden could receive consideration for a callup against Mexico, August 12th.

 

Logan Pause, 5.5 - Absolving himself quickly after two sub-par performances, similar to the way President Clinton did with intern Monica Lewinsky, his public acceptance rating jumped after a heart filled display, avoiding the costly turnovers and combining well with teammates. If he starts again, it is important that he experiences another similar performance.

 

Kyle Beckerman, 8 - Discovering his goal scoring prowess could have not arrived at better time for the USMNT, as he struck a near post corner strike with pin point precision. What was even more impressive about his performance was how he calmly maintained possession under pressure, patrolled the midfield defensively, and offered incisive passing and vision. Although the central midfield pool is very deep, Coach Bradley understands that his pool just became deeper with his Gold Cup play.

 

Robbie Rogers, 4.5 - Having been out hustled and pushed off the ball most of the night, Rogers demonstrated that his play diminishes when he plays timidly, one who does not aggressively attack players 1v1 while turning over the ball on numerous occasions. Although his cross to Davy Arnaud, set up the Beckerman goal, it is important that Rogers asserts his dominance on the left flank, utilizing his speed, 1v1 dribble penetration, and cut-back runs into the penalty box. His score would have sunk lower, but he did display a willingness to track back but fatigued before extra time. Lacking an aggressive nature on several occasions, the speedy winger failed to challenge for loose balls that he could have retrieved.

 

Davy Arnaud, 7 - Offered insightful passing, one of which Holden hit wide of the goal, and his flick on the first goal allowed Beckerman the time to set up his wicked strike. Both Gold Cup starts warrant his inclusion in the starting Xl.

 

Brian Ching, 6.5 - His tireless work-rate, hold up play, and passing continue to impress Coach Bradley and teammates. His header off the post should have gone in, and how many times could the Panamanian defenders take him to the ground within the penalty box? His post-and-pivot dribble penetration near the penalty box poses problems for opposing defenses, reminiscent of the 2007 Gold Cup penalty that he earned in the final, turning the Mexican defenders.

 

Subs

Clarence Goodsen, 6 - Played solidly for Conrad who left with a concussion. He shadowed Blas Perez throughout the remainder of the game, causing Perez' to fatigue and fade out of the remainder of the game. Goodsen has solidified the center back depth even further.

 

Kenny Cooper, 6 - Experienced an improved performance over his last showing, but missed on another header which could have resulted in a goal. Drawing the penalty due to a foot to the midsection showed courage, and the penalty conversion validated his performance and mark on the game. To improve his national team standing, he must convert on opportunities, such as the late game break away where he dummied his defender going right,  turning and striking with his left foot which missed wide left. In addition, to receive further consideration, he must improve his hold-up play, aerial game,  and speed of play, while utilizing his precise and accurate striking.

 

Brad Evan, 5.5 - Hustled and track backed defensively for ten minutes.

 

Who was your Man of the Match? Will Coach Bradley call up other players for the Semi Final? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: USA Player's Grade vs Panama - Extra Time Cooper penalty secures 2-1 victory.

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Soccer goals: Los Ticos have advanced to the Gold Cup Semi Finals, thanks to a beautiful bycicle kick by Celso Borges and two goals from Alvaro Sabario, defeating Guadeloupe 5-1. Although Costa Rica has played admirably during the group stages, Sunday's rejuvenation and score fest suggests that Costa Rica could be the favorites to win the Gold cup, fielding the closest to an A team of the candidates remaining.

 

These soccer videos feature highlights of Costa Rica vs Guadeloupe and mexico vs Haiti.

 

Coach Javier Aguierre can wipe his brow now that he has served two games of his suspension, allowing him to participate in the August 12th qualifier against the USA in the Azteca.  Trouncing on the Haitians from the inception of the game, El Tri received inspired two goal performance from Miguel Sabah, and Giovanni Dos Santos scored one goal and set up two to give Mexico a 4-0 beatdown of Haiti.

 

The Gold Cup christened the new billion dollar Cowboy stadium with a sold out crowd of 82,252 in attendance. It appears that Cowboy's owner Jerry Jones publicity stunt with Mexico worked wonders as he visted El Tri during practice. As impressive as the stadium looks, boasting numerous luxory boxes, the high definition screen took the cake with a size, resembling more of a drive in theater than a big screen.

 

Will Mexico defeat Costa Rica in the Semi Finals? Will Jerry Jones continue to support Mexican Soccer? Who is your favorite to win the Gold Cup?  Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Costa Rica and Mexico advance to the Semi Final

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Soccer goals and soccer videos: The Mexico and Panama rivalry always has boasted a sense of rivalry and aggressive play. However, the two countries raised the bar with yellow and red cards galore, resulting in a 1-1 draw. Coach Javier Aguirre demonstrated his willingness to mix it up with the Panamanians by extending his leg in front of Philips as the ball went out of bound. A pushing match ensued between both player and coach. Both individuals were ejected, but the Panamanian midfielder delayed the game almost 15 minutes, refusing to leave the field in fear of being struck with flying objects from Mexican fans.

 

These soccer videos feature highlights of Thursday's Gold Cup Action.

 

 

 

An interesting development could emerge from Mexico's side as Coach Aguirre could receive an additional suspension that could carry over to the US/Mexico Qualifier. If this were to take place, El Tri would experience a disadvantage, despite playing in the fortress that they call Azteca. It is possible that Mexican Coach could receive penalty which could be served during the Gold Cup. But, an early exit in the knockout stages could leave Javier Aguirre suspended for the August 12th qualifier. Let's see what happens in the next few weeks.

 

Guadeloupe continued their Group C dominance defeating Nicaragua 2-0. After securing advancement to the quarter finals, the French Territory will face Mexico, a team that they played in the semifinals back in the 2007 Gold Cup.

 

What do you think of the tripping incident? Did the referee lose control of the game? Will Coach Aguirre receive an additional supsension? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and Soccer Videos: Mexico draws with Panama and Guadeloupe advances.

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Soccer goals: After securing advancement to the quarter finals, US Coach Bradley has the luxury of selecting an experimental squad for the upcoming Haitian match. Those players, who have received considerable playing time over the first two games, will likely cheer from the bench for those, void of Gold Cup action. 

 

Click here to view for these soccer videos that feature post game reaction.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Many supporters clamor for Kenny Cooper to earn the start after his aggressive ten minute cameo, coupled by the fact that Ching faded for stretches and offered poor hold-up play during the game. His far-post strike on goal and attack-minded mentality created and renewed the number one topic on the discussion boards: Who is the better US forward Cooper/Ching debate? Heralded as a strong Rookie of the Year candidate and potential US international, Sam Cronin should receive the start after observing the Gold Cup from the sidelines. It will be interesting to see how his game translates to the international level. Will he feel overwhelmed with the speed of play? Can he handle the defensive responsibilities.

 

The fiery and intense defender, Jay Heaps should replace Heath Pearce at left back while the fresh Jimmy Conrad should relieve Chad Marshall for at least a game. Although USMNT will not play in Seattle again, Brad Evans will punch in the clock at right back, hoping to impress Coach Bradley for another Camp Bradley invite. 

 

The most intriguing lineup matter remains: Who Coach Bradley will pair with Kenny Cooper? Although Charlie Davies has recently played substantial minutes in the Gold Cup and Confederations Cup, it is possible that Bradley will pair the speedster with the US' version of Goliathe. Let's take a look at a potential lineup against Haiti.

 

This proposed lineup suggests who Coach Bradley could field against Haiti

-----Cooper----Davies-----

Clark-Holden-Cronin-Arnaud

Heaps-Parkhurst-Conrad-Evans

--------Robles---------

 

This alternative lineup could field Feilhaber and move Quaranta up top.

 

------Cooper----Quaranta

Clark-Feilhaber-Cronin-Arnaud

Heaps-Parkhurst-Conrad-Evans

---------Robles-------

 

Observing and testing players under certain specific game-time scenarios will allow Coach Bradley the liberty to field his best starting Xl for the knock-out phases of the tournament by analyzing each players strengths and weaknesses. After a short ten minute burst against Honduras, Kenny Cooper could experience a break-out performance, if he asserts himself and capitlizes on scoring opportunities. Potentially earning their first cap, Collin Clark and Sam Cronin could benefit from the experience and challenge that Haitian National team will present, as they fight for advancement to the eliminatory phases. Who will be the next player step up and make their mark on the game?

 

Do you agree with the proposed lineups? Should Freddy Adu stayed to finish out the tournament? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Who will Coach Bradley Field against Haiti?

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Soccer goals and soccer videos: From 2005-2006 under the Bruce Arena era, Santino Quaranta emerged as a regular on the U.S. Men's National Team, poised to earn a spot for the 2006 World Cup. However, his World Cup omission vaulted the talented midfielder into US soccer obscurity while his personal life and professional career spiraled out of control. Although Santino Quaranta struggled with an addiction to pain killers and cocaine, the 24 year old defied odds returning to DC United, where he revived his club career, earning a call up from Coach Bradley.

 

This soccer videos features highlights of the USA vs Honduras Gold Cup match.

 

 

After almost three years under the helm as the Coach of U.S. Men's National Team, Coach Bradley finally capped Santino Quaranta, reaping immediate results as the United attacker secured the victory with his low near post strike. What makes his goal even sweeter was that it occurred in front of many loyal DC United fans who have supported him,  despite his mishaps and poor decision making.

 

Even though the match concluded with a story book ending, the first half depicted a horror like storyline with the USA playing poorly in central midfield, turning over the ball frequently, lucky not to concede a first half goal. The Hondurans should receive credit for moving the ball swiftly and switching the field to take advantage of space. But, poor final touches and suspect striking kept the Catrachos scoreless at half.

 

Momentum shifted early in the second half when the USA began to possess and generate scoring chances as the Catrachos started to fatigue and fade. The insertion of Charlie Davies and Benny Feilhaber paid immediate dividends, adding vision, possession, and speed to the attack. Benny Feilhaber orchestrated the US attack with his quick exchanges and impeccable vision, offering the offensive sequences to break down the Honduran defense.

 

Providing composure and deft exchanges, Feilhaber channeled the ball from the left flank to the middle park where Charlie Davies set up Santino Quaranta for the go ahead goal. Gasping for air and dejected from the first goal, Honduras conceded a second goal just minutes later from a lapse of concentration that would witness Brian Ching head in the second goal from a Cherundolo cross. Continuing to mount additional attacks until the 90th minute, the US midfield provided several tempting balls into the box but failed to convert.

 

Here are some additional observations from the game: It is possible to assume that Charlie Davies' recent offensive influence and inclusion for the USMNT has contributed to the greater success to the team rather than other factors. For example, Brian Ching demonstrated little all game but began to show life when Davies entered the game. His speed, hustle, and attacking courage has conjured up memories of how the USA attacked in the 2002 World Cup. As the tournament progresses, let's see if Charlie Davies continues to impact the team in the same manner that he has demonstrated since his inclusion against Egypt in the Confederations Cup.

 

This offensive revelation does not indicate that the other forwards are demonstrating a poor level, only that Charlie Davies spawns a different perspective and formula for the US attack. It does not appear to be a coincidence that the US attack has witnessed a monumental change since his inclusion.

 

Player grades for USA vs Honduras match.

 

Troy Perkins, 6 - Jumped off his line quickly and made several timely saves, considering that the back line struggled for stretches in the first half.

 

Steve Cherundolo, 6- Overlapped well on the flank and provided good crosses. The Hannover back meshed well with Quaranta and offered support offensively.

 

Chad Marshall, 7- played rock solid, controlling the aerially battles, but lacked chemistry with Parkhurst who experienced a difficult night. His passing and distribution has impressed me the most this tournament.

 

Michael Parkhurst,  4.5 - struggled with the speed of the game, and his touches failed him on several occasions. This performance could have hurt his national team chances moving forward.

 

Heath Pearce, 5.5 - The verdict is still out on the speedy left back. His deft touch and chemistry with Rogers appears void, but his constant overlapping runs and decent crossing offers hope. His support and passing has allowed for better possession and movement during attacking sequences.

 

Robbie Rogers, 5.5 - His 1v1 dribbling and flank speed has been refreshing to watch, but due to his exceptional speed, Rogers is left with only one option, a cross, when he surpasses his defender and teammates. Other players must provide runs or create passing options for his darting and attacking dribble penetration. His hold-up play needs to improve, as the ball was stripped from him on several occasions.

 

Kyle Beckerman, 6.5- offered great range defensively but struggled with Pause as a partner. When Benny Feilhaber assumed the more attacking role centrally, Beckerman focused on the defensive side, prospering alongside Feilhaber. His through-ball to Brian Ching in the first half offered a glimpse of his skill and vision.

 

Logan Pause, 4 - struggled with the speed of the game. His defensive work rate reaches MLS standards but falls short on the international stage. Receiving and releasing the ball quickly lead to his demise, stunting the US continuity and possession.

 

Santino Quaranta, 7 - offers pinpoint crossing, quick touches, and efficient striking, evidenced on the first goal. He combined well with Cherundolo, and it would be imperative that he continue to utilize his crossing to create additional scoring opportunities. His good performance warrants additional playing time. 

 

Freddy Adu, 4.5- Is the Mojo gone? I don't think so, but the rust is still there. Adu failed to create chances, and the missed header that could have tallied two consecutive goals. His trickery and possession inspired the Hondurans to man-handled the diminutive foward, pushing him off the ball or dispossesing him. Adu returns to Benefica with more questions remaining than answers. His performance could omit him from upcoming qualifiers.

 

Brian Ching, 5.5- Where was the patented hustle and bustle? Ching failed to hold-up the ball well against Honduras who experienced success against him in the first half. His goal redeemed his performance, but Kenny Cooper showed more in little action than Ching did throughout the game. Ching's recent injury could be hampering his play.

 

Coach Bob Bradley, 5.5- Starting Logan Pause who is a fringe MLS player proved detrimental to the US attack and defense. His half time adjustments opened up the game which allowed substitutes Benny Feilhaber and Charlie Davies to imprint their stamp on the game.

Subs:

Charlie Davies, 7.5- Inspired the team when he challenged the keepers casual clearance almost resulting in a goal. His speed and willingness to attack has transformed the attack, making his teammates better instantly. His hold-up play on the Quaranta goal would have made Brian Ching and Brian McBride proud.

 

Benny Feilhaber, 7.5- If questions remain to whether Benny has returned to good form, Benny is back. His introduction inspired the offense from his first touch. His vision, quick touch, and composure on-the-ball allowed the US attack to break down the Honduran defense. Continuing to impress Coach Bradley and international observers, Feilhaber could deny Freddy Adu, as the central playmaker in 2010.

 

Kenny Cooper, 6.5- challenged the keeper from the inception, providing several shots at goal. With his hustle and improved hold-up play, Cooper could move ahead Conor Casey in the target forward chart. The Hoops' forward should earn the start against Haiti and will need a break-out performance to ensure additional playing time.

 

Who was your MOTM? Were you happy to see Quaranta score the goal amongst his supporters? Can the USA win the Gold Cup? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Quaranta scores and secures advancement to quarter finals against Honduras winning 2-0 - Player Grades.

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Soccer goals and soccer videos: Unable to generate constistent attacks through the first half, second half changes transformed the US offense with the inclusion of Charlie Davies and Benny Feilhaber. After the substitutions, all Coach Bradley had to do was just add water and, poof,  instant offense. Benny Feilhaber orchestrated the US attack by utilizing quick exchanges to create space and time on the ball which translated to a goal with a five touch  sequence. These quick exchanges sliced through the Honduran's defense while Charlie Davies set up a clean Quaranta strike to net the first goal.

 

This soccer video features highlights and soccer goals from the USA vs Honduras match.

 

 

After his touch and play failed him for the first and part of the second half, Brian Ching awoke from his dismal performance and headed home the proverbial dagger in the Hoduran heart, securing the victory. After the second goal was converted, the Honduran defense absorbed multiple attacking sequences where they were fortunate not to concede a third goal.

 

Look for players grades coming in the next hour. But, mean while enjoy the highlights, and leave your comments.

 

Were you happy with the US performance? Should Honduras have scored on their several break away plays? What did  you think of Quaranta's performance. Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and Soccer Videos: USA defeats Honduras 2-0 - Quaranta scores Game Winner

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