Soccer Goals: For those of you waiting for the USMNT to face the talented Oranje, the final friendly before Coach Bradley selects his South African roster, the gameday has arrived.
With the Oranje boasting the advantage in talent and home field advantage, the USMNT will utilize this game as an audition for the fringe players who will impress and make the squad. The US will have their hands filled on Wednesday night as the Oranje will feature stars such as Robben, Sneijder, Kuyt, De Jong, and Babel. If the US can provide a strong performance against the stacked Dutch side, several positives can be taken from this game.
Soccer Videos: Gameday edition of the USA vs Netherlands
Soccer Videos: Carlos Bocanegra interview
Here is a proposed lineup that I believe Coach Bradley will field against the Oranje.
----Altidore-----Johnson
Donovan-Edu-Bradley-Holden
Bornstein-Bocanegra-DeMerit-Spector
----------Howard--------
If Bradley feels like the 4-5-1 would benefit the USMNT more in the first half, this is a starting Xl that we might see.
----------Altidore-------
Donovan----Torres----Holden
--------Edu-------Bradley---
Bornstein-Bocanegra-DeMerit-Spector
----------Howard--------
If they fall behind in the 4-5-1 formation, it is possible that Coach Bradley will convert to a 4-4-2 with either Findley or Johnson receiving time as second striker.
What formation do you think the USMNT will field? Who will impress in this game? Will the USMNT finally score a goal against the Netherlands on Dutch soil? Share your thoughts.
Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: The Netherland's friendly gameday arrives
Soccer Goals: Experimentation was on the mind of many US supporters, when the US faced Slovakia while taking into consideration that the US missed key starters Jay DeMerit, Oguchi Onyewu, Tim Howard, and Landon Donovan. Trying to fill the most key position, that is the loss of Charlie Davies, took a backseat when Coach Bradley selected the forward pairing of Jozy Altidore and Conor Casey.
Soccer Videos: Highlights of Slovakia's 1-0 defeat of the USMNT
Despite starting the game slow and lethargic and giving away a lion share of the possession, Slovakia drew first blood, when winger Weiss terrorized the right flank, turning defender Jonathan Bornstein into a pretzel with a swift fake and dash to the goal. After being beaten by Weiss' speed and skill on the ball, the Chivas USA defender grabbed, Slovakia version of Bradley Jr., immediately resulting in Weiss' Nestea plung in the box and subsequent penalty. In the 27th minute, MarekHamsik's penalty kick secured the victory as the Slovaks were content to defend with ten men and counter attack opportunistically.
What perplexed many bloggers was the starting forward duo of Conor Casey and Jozy Altidore, who created few chances and lost the ball on numerous occasions due to poor hold-up play, a technique and intensity level that would have even infuriated former and legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden, who have sprung up from his recliner at the tender age of 99-years old.
As a blogger pointed on another forum, starting Altidore and Casey at the same time is like playing "King Kong andGodzilla". Although the two monsters make laughable but enjoyable movies, the two target forward combo thwarted potential attacks with their poor touch and hold-up play. In their defense, Casey finds greater success when paired with a speedy forward such as Omar Cummings (Colorado Rapids) or Charlie Davies (see Honduran qualifier). Playing without Donvan complicated matters even more, as most of the defensive attention will be directed Donovan's way freeing space for other players to find the seams. Simply, Conor needs that speed player to compliment his game.
On the other hand, the Hull City forward continues to display poor habits for both club and country. His hold up play, off-the-ball energy, and attacking prowess has hit an all time low, creating opportunities for aspiring and speedy forwards. If Jozy Altidore does not improve his consistency and hustle, his starting position andplaying time could find its way into some other motivated players hands. Noted more for his speed rather than his hold-up play, Eddie Johnson demonstrated a better ability to hold up the ball under pressure. Simply, Altidore must improve his whole game.
While many will continue to point out Jonathan Bornstein's poor defensive performance andthe US' lack of scoring chances - both are true - the USMNT discovered several positive aspects in their defeat. First, keeper Brad Guzan proved after several athletic saves that he has the big play defensive ability of the baseball gold glover, Ozzie Smith. Unlikely to ever play baseball or do a back flip before the start of an inning, Guzandisplayed his ability to make the crucial one-vs-one save that kept the Slovaks to only a one goal outing, the type of diving saves that landed Ozzie Smith in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Secondly, Jonathan Spector stepped into the center back position and proved that he offers the versatility to play anywhere on the defensive front, complimenting the possession game with his efficient and effective distribution. Third, the central midfield duo of Benny Feilhaber and Michael Bradley played a smart and disciplined tactical game, where neither player was caught out of position like in previous games. If and when Maurice Edu and or Jermaine Jones return to top form, Michael Bradley can return to a more advanced role which should create better attacking sequences, while maintaining a strong defensive presence in the midfield.
Let's see how the US players fared amongst Slovakians, whose strategy preferred to defend first and counter second.
Player Grades
Brad Guzan, 8: If questions still persist to whether "The Worm" is a solid second option, he dispelled these uncertainties with several quality saves and good distribution.
Steve Cherundolo, 7: In the first 20 minutes, the Hanover 96 wing back ignited the US attack with his overlapping runs, offensive support, and dribble penetration. His stock continues to rise as his performance will make Coach Bradley's decision at right back more difficult.
Jonathan Spector, 6.5: Not playing in his natural defensive position out wide, Spector demonstrated his continued versatility andimportance to the team. Couple that with his solid distribution and field chemistry, and his South African seat is all but confirmed. Failing to step up on an offside trap in the second half was only one of the few mishaps on the night.
Jonathan Bornstein, 4: Winger Weiss, Slovakian'scoaches son, had his way with the Chivas USA back, cutting and slaloming Borstein into a contortionist pretzel. Although he struggled with defending dribble penetration, he did offer two solid overlapping runs andcrosses, one of which found Feilhaber for a solid header on goal and the other which landed in the six yard box before being scooped up by the keeper. Maintaining objectivity is difficult when it is clear that Honduran hero does not translate to the international game. Imagine Franc Ribery, Milos Krasic, or Maicon running at him for 60-90 minutes. No thanks! You get the idea.
Clint Demspey, 6.5: Struggled with the first twenty minutes of the game but settled in afterwards providing the majority of the attack from his efforts. His left footed shot in the first half came close and his pass to spring EJ on a run created several of the few attacks in the US arsenal. Considering that Altidorecontinues to struggle with the most basic of fundamentals such as providing defensive energy and hold up play, perhaps the Deuce will finally receive orders to move up a rung on the offensive ladder to play forward.
Michael Bradley, 6: played the holding role to a T. Although his touch failed him on several occassions, the US midfield fixture compensated with hustle, energy, and tactical disclipline. His communication andunderstanding with Feilhaber stood out as the pairing kept possession and neutralized several counter attacks.
Benny Feilhaber, 6: Despite not producing his marquee through ball pass to a spring a teammate, the Aarhus midfielder proved that his game does consist of energy, hustle and 90-minute fitness. This is not the 2008 Feilhaber, who frustrated many because of his immense potential, playing at a lethargic level and squandering his opportunities in training. For example, in the 82nd minute, he lost the ball in the final third, hustled, recuperated the ball, and drew a free kick just outside the box. Playing time in Denmark has instilled confidence and work rate, while his touch and vision continue to be his forte.
Robbie Rogers, 5.5: In my mind, questions still existed to whether Rogers could play a full 90 minutes on both sides of the ball. Inconstistency still plagued his game at the international and club level, but his performance against the Slovaks proved his potential. Most impressive was his ability to maintain possession under pressure.
Jozy Altidore, 4: After this half-hearted effort and many others, I am not sure that he is a sure fire starter. Although he produces an occasional moment of brilliance, his game has been exposed at the European level for having too many holes.
Conor Casey, 4: The duo did not compliment each other, and the bulky forward allowed himself to be bodied off they ball. I know that he won't win any track meets against opposing defenders, but he must improve his hold up play at the next level.
Coach Bradley, 5: Identified Spector as a center back alternate , while stressing that the Bradley and Feilhaber maintain their tactical disclipline. Starting both Casey and Altidore was unforgivable considering that this was a friendly to discover another speed player. Why did EJ play more in the hold up role than Jozy? EJ should utilize his speed to create space for other teammates. Why did he wait so long to pull out Jozy? Jeff Cunningham should receive more playing time against Denmark.
Subs
Eddie Johnson, 5.5: Seeing Eddie Johnson playing more of a holding forward role was peculiar considering his forte is to create space for the midfield with his daunting runs. On several occasions he held the ball relaying it to another teammate or drawing fouls. If he had more playing time at Fulham, he could push the other forwards for a spot. I want to see more of him against Denmark.
Dax McCarty, 6: The red-haired middy stifled the Slovak counter attack on several occasions, while showing that he boasts the tenacity, range, skill, and passing to play on the international level. I hope to see more of him against Denmark.
Clarence Goodsen, 4: His introduction caused some miscommunication but settled down later as the duo found their ryhthm.
Sacha Kljestan, 4.5: offered two dangerous crosses but turnovered the ball over three times in eight minutes.
Jeff Cunningham, NR: showed hustle and defensive coverage, but eight minutes did not yield enough to get a grade. I want to see more, though.
What did you think of the US' performance? Will Coach Bradley move Bornstein to the bench? Who do you want to see in the next match? Share your thoughts.
Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Slovakia neutralizes the USA in a 1-0 victory
In the latest soccer news: Breathing a sigh of relief after conceding another early goal and rallying to win 2-1, the USMNT, Coach Bradley, and US Supporters can rest easier knowing that the US will not face the extreme pressure of earning road points when they confront EL Tri en Azteca in August. The Confederations Cup will offer a good barometer to where the USA measures against the better international teams, Brazil and Italy.
This soccer video features highlight of the US 2-1 victory over Honduras.
With several lineup changes ensuing after a lackluster performance against Costa Rica, Coach Bradley pondered the ideal starting Xl that would neutralize the Honduran attack and spark the US offense. Inserting Jonathan Spector, Jonathan Bornstein, Ricardo Clark, and Conor Casey proved worthy selections as the fullbacks blanketed the Honduran wingers and limited their turnovers.
Treated like a scapegoat and slandered on the blogsphere, Ricardo Clark's performance indicated that US supporters have treated the athletic midfielder like a red-haired stepchild, but his performance suggested that he competes at a high international level. His simplicity, persistence, and neutralization of the Honduran central midfield offered a glimpse of his back-up role as the holding midfielder, and even in some cases, the US starter.
Despite not playing regularly for the USMNT and with little time in camp to build chemistry with the players, Conor Casey played a decent match, working hard defensively and aerially but looked out-of-sync with the rest of the team. In his defense, the midfield service offered little if any opportunities to make his mark on the game.
It is apparent that Pablo Mastroeni is fading quickly from the USMNT picture after another sub-par performance which lasted only the first half and coupled with strong performances by Benny Feilhaber and Ricardo Clark.
Inserting Donovan at left wing paid immediate dividends forcing the Hondurans to focus on both Donovan and Dempsey and provided more space and time for the central midfield. The top-scorer in USMNT history started out in an aggressive manner and proved that the US play better when he receives multitudes of touches throughout the game. His clutch penalty kick changed the complexity of the game, giving the USA momentum heading into the second half.
Although the score indicated that the score was closer than it may have appeared, Ricardo Clark's run into the box should have been called a penalty when the Honduran defender tripped the streaking Clark limiting his break-out in the penalty area. This result would have offered the USA a 2-1 lead heading into the halftime which would have set up the counter attacking approach in the second half.
WIth several key figures out with injuries and limited offensive production , it is important that Coach Bradley work at ensuring both offensive and defensive continuity. Adressing the need to provide better service to the forwards during the Confederations Cup while preparing for upcoming qualifiers will allow the USA to confront a struggling Mexico in CONCAF qualifying. This result bolsters the USA's chances to qualify, and with a win or tie against Mexico, the USA will separate themselves, along with Costa Rica, from the rest of the pack.
Starting Xl vs Honduras
------Casey----Altidore----
Donovan-Mastroeni-Clark-Dempsey
Bornstein-Bocanegra-Onyewu-Spector
-----------Howard-----------
Tim Howard, 7: Protected and guarded the US goal and was beaten by an excellent Costly strike. His second half play warranted a high mark with timely challenges.
Jonathan Spector, 7: After witnessing the Costa Rican debacle at right back which does not fully implicate Marvelle Wynne but more a tactical error, Spector offered a cool, calm, and collect demeanor. His distribution proved efficient, and his overlapping runs were timely allowing for good crosses in the box. His separation speed during overlapping runs were impressive considering that he does not possess the same break-away speed as Wynne or Hejduk.
Oguchi Onyewu, 6: provided solid defending all night and his pass to Donovan at the end of the first half resulted in a penalty. He made a good transition when Bocanegra was forced out by an injury partnering well with Jay Demerit.
Carlos Bocanegra 6.5: redeemed himself from his poor performance against Costa Rica scoring the game winner and playing strong defensively. His distribution still needs work, but at least he didn't play hot potato with the ball compromising the left back's positioning and possession with errant passes.
Clint Dempsey, 5: bonehead play in the first five minutes, opting to flick the ball behind him, cost the USA a goal. Although that play could have jeopardized the US qualification process, the Deuce attempted to compensate for his error working hard defensively and offering several good passes, especially the great no-look heel pass. His header to Bocanegra for the game winning goal proved crucial. When will Dempsey experience a break-out performance similar to his performances with Fulham? He plays the best when the stakes are highest: Could Dempsey raise his game against Italy or Brazil?
Pablo Mastroeni, 4: did not deserve to start this game. Although his performance improved over the Costa Rican game, the aggressive midfielder ran out of gas by halftime and did not provide the same defensive presence that warranted USMNT call-ups. His exclusion from the Confederation Cup speaks volumes on the veterans status going forward.
Ricardo Clark, 7.5: earned the Man-of-the-Match honors despite the pregame jitters that were evident in the first ten minutes. His pestering defense and simple play allowed the midfield to operate calmly applying offensive pressure on Honduras. Late in the first half, his attacking run into the box should have been a penalty, but the referee opted not to call the foul even though the replay provdied evidence of a trip in the box. In the second half, Clark's motor shifted into fifth gear as newly inserted Benny Feilhaber assumed the possessionand distribution role, freeing up Clark to cover more ground and create defensive havoc for the Honduran midfield. Is there a holding midfield controvery?
Landon Donovan, 6: continues to prove that he must receive sufficient touches on-the-ball to put his stamp on the game offensively. His set-piece play warrants a change or more practice, but his role as the penalty taker should remain with the speedy winger. When Donovan plays aggressive, he forces the opponents to focus on his game causing imbalance and gaps within their formation. Considered a team leader and one of the marquee players, Donovan must demonstrate his aggressiveness on the field every match.
Conor Casey, 4.5: struggled to find chemistry with Altidore and the midfield. His presence defensively and aerially compensated for the lack of deficiencies, considering his short preparation with the team. Working with the team this week will allow him to build better team cohesion and provides an opportunity to impress the training staff during workouts before the Confederations Cup.
Jozy Altidore, 5.5: Worked hard defensively and received little service all night. With improved understanding of how Conor Casey plays, Jozy Altidore could integrate well with the burly forward. Limited runs diagonally and vertically affected his offensive impact.
Subs
Benny Feilhaber, 6: replaced Mastroeni in the second half offering incisive passing and efficiency on the ball while under pressure. He offered several nice passes throughout the game, but his pass to Dempsey showed a glimpse of his vision and touch. When Feilhaber demonstrates good fitness, mental attitude, and club playing time, his production warrants call-ups to the USMNT, and he now receives the opportunity to earn consideration for playing time. If he improves on his play from this game, his inclusion and influence on the game will be imminent.
Jay Demerit, 6: replaced the injured Bocanegra and did not miss a beat. Is it possible that he could supplant Danny Califf as the #3 center back?
DaMarcus Beasley, 4.5: played better than he did at Costa Rica. If the younger players continue to play well, Beasley could be extinct.
Do you agree with the player grades? Who was your MOTM? Will the USA improve their play in the Confederations Cup? Could Ricardo Clark push Michael Bradley for the starting holding midfielder role? Or has Bradley secured his starting role? Share your thoughts.
In the latest soccer news: Conceding two goals in the first twelve minutes in a game where the United States needed a little luck playing away in a hostile environment was the recipe for disaster. Although the circumstance could have been worse, - they could have conceded three goals - the USMNT commenced the game with poor first touches and tackling, a lack of urgency and commitment, and stagnant offensive movement.
Even though the US rarely challenged or imposed their offensive play on the Ticos defense, US provided a few attacking moments that either caused fouls in the final third or created passing lanes. Since the surface caused irregular bounces, it was important that the US' first touch settled the ball gently to their feet allowing for a quick release of the ball. On numerous occasions, Francisco Torres received the ball, shielded it, and waited for the defenders to approach. After the defenders committed to Torres, he would dribble or pause-dribble to create space for the other midfielders.
The few occasions, that the US dribble penetrated on the Costa Rican defenders, drew fouls and or created space to maneuver in the offensive final third. Set-piece play warranted a night in the Costa Rican slammer squandering several good opportunities with poor service, a facet where the USA could have imposed their size and strength during any aerial battles. While struggling in all facets of the game, the set piece chances could have offered a distinct advantage as the Red, White, and Blue have punished their opponents i.e. the Poland friendly on set pieces.
Providing and offering little in the form of leadership, Pablo Maestroni and DaMarcus deserve much of the blame for the US' horrid performance. DaMarcus Beasley demonstrated the touch of a concrete wall allowing the ball to bounce in any direction. Well noted for his strong tackling and defensive bite, Pablo Mastroeni demonstrated and proved that NFL place kickers tackle better than he does. His conditioning and work-rate resembled that of an amateur, running a 5k for charity, gassed after the first kilometer.
Bashing only veterans Beasley and Mastroeni will not provide enough justice. Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey share blame as well due to their inability to lead by example. Did either player look danger or demonstrate leadership during the game? Clint Dempsey thrives in pressure situations and is considered a gamer, but his game appears more motivated playing in England than for his country. Being a veteran and a leader, Dempsey must remind the other players that things will improve and must demonstrate it by working hard on the field.
Without growing a beard or becoming a self-proclaimed rapper, Landon Donovan disappeared as a soccer player and leader much like Joaquin Phoenix as an actor. His set-piece play seemed rushed and rarely offered dangerous runs to create space for Altidore disappearing as a prime passing option. Bradley must understand that inserting Donovan as midfield winger where his increased touches creates chances for the rest of the team helps inspire the offense. When Donovan plays on the wing i.e. Poland and Trinidad & Tobago at home, the US offense assumes the role of the Hugh Jackman as the Werewolf scary, hairy, and able to release their sharp, attacking blades. Although this might overstate and exagerate his offensive effect, it does suggest that Landon Donovan provides the mojo and the necessary to jump start the offense.
Besides bashing the USA for their performance and rightly so, Costa Rica deserves credit for their aggressive style of defense which forced the USA to the widest points on the flanks, provided double-team pressure, and forced errant turnovers. The first goal was conceded with high pressure coupled with Beasley' poor touch and give-away in the US' final third.
Costa Rica forced the USA to defend their dribble penetration and also benefited from their soft defensive-marking. Their flank exploitation thrived under Andy Herron, a player who barely played for the Chicago Fire but looked dangerous against Torres and Beasley. Switching the point of attack flustered the US defense which was devoid of good communication to close down on and mark open players, leaving gaping holes in the US back line. With Costa Rica's almost-perfect play and the US' lack of presence and energy, this combination lead to the perfect recipe for a good-old-fashion beat down.
In a night where everything went perfect for Los Ticos and conversely the US, experiencing everthing bad, the US must rebound from this tough lost and focus on defeating Honduras. If the US enters the game with the same intensity as Costa Rica and earn a poor result against the Catrachos, qualifying could emerge as a more difficult task as the "Giants of CONCACAF" struggle to secure an early World Cup berth.
Player Ratings
Tim Howard (5): performed admirably considering that his midfield and defense disappeared for stretches during the game. He made several timely saves. The score could have been much worse.
Marvell Wynne (3.5): Usually unflappable and relentless, the right back speedster suffered from indecision, poor spacing, and lethargic man-marking. Wynne did not demonstrate his normal speed on the flank, and even his defensive track-back displayed hints of fatigue. In his defense, the game marked his first high pressure qualifier, and his midfield colleagues did not facilitate a good performance as they were punished by inexcusable man-marking. Onyewu/Wynne pairing seemed out-of-sync when several times Gooch covered late due to Wynne's indecision. He must utilize his speed and continously provide overlapping runs. His speed was not evident for most of the game.
Oguchi Onyewu (5.5): remained calm and composed during most of the game. His defensive performance offered the best of the four defenders. Gooch covered for Marvell Wynne who was plagued by indecision but made the most of his situation.
Carlos Bocanegra (4.5) Although his distribution warranted a rating of four, his indecisive tackles proved fatal on the first and third goals. His passes pinned DMB against the sideline several times. It appeared that he was playing hot potato with the soccer ball. In his defense, Mastroeni and Bradley compromised his positioning with poor tackling and uninspired marking.
DaMarcus Beasley (3):In the first 20 minutes, his touch on the ball merits a benching alone. That does not include his errant turnovers and his inability to provide a solid flank attack. The young Run DMB previously demonstrated his attacking abilities. Now, it is apparent that his poor touch and diminishing speed has caught up with him. Let's hope that the Beasley experiment at left back is over. If he starts against Honduras, it will be a real surprise.
Francisco Torres (5.5): appeared unsettled in the first five minutes but adapted wonderfully keeping the ball close to his body while shielding off defenders. With several defenders applying extreme pressure, he settled the ball, dribbled out of pressure, and found the open teammate. This possession under pressure favors the young Texan to receive more playing time going forward. He should have remained on the field and Pablo Mastroeni should have subbed out with Kljestan. It seems safe to comment that Torres will start now that Michael Bradley will be out due to card accumulation.
Pablo Mastroeni (3): Against T&T you proved your efficiency on the ball and in the tackle. The motive for bringing in a player with your nose for-the-ball and challenging nature seemed logical from Coach Bradley's perspective. However, your performance draws comparisons to the Italy vs USA World Cup. At least in this game, you attempted to tackle. For all the Ricardo Clark skeptics and the lack of chemistry between Clark/Bradley pairing, it is certain that Clark would have given the USA more of a defensive bite and would have at least played his heart out. Conditioning appears to be a fundamental weakness in your game.
Michael Bradley (5) offered great play in the first half covering defensively and playing well out of pressure. His composure and presence hinted that the USA would make a comeback, but Bradley's work rate plummeted in the second half contributing to the third goal allowing his man to outrun him for the score. He also missed a crucial defensive marking allowing the Tico's defensive midfielder to enter the box unscathed attempting to net on a cross.
Clint Dempsey (4): proved once again that he plays better in a Fulham Jersey than in a US one. Hustling and covering defensively after the first two goals, the Deuce faded in and out for stretches of the game, lacking the attacking style that enticed Fulham to open their check book. Redemption can be achieved with a strong game against the Catrachos. Several consecutive mediocre games are unacceptable.
Landon Donovan (4.5): With his insertion up top, it almost guaranteed that the US would struggle to service the leading scorer in USMNT history. That nightmare became a reality where Donovan was limited in his touches and the attack. Although his offensive game was neutralized, his work-rate defensively would have made Frankie Hejduk proud. Memo to Bob Bradley: Deploy Landon on the wing.
Jozy Altidore (5): worked hard to hold up the ball and attempted to integrate other players in the offense. However, the Costa Rican defense smothered the US midfield most of the night denying good service. Although Jozy's fitness was questionable, a frustrating element of his game reemerges when he lacks the drive to run hard and cover space defensively, a trait that has plagued Eddie Johnson and frustrated US supporters for several years.
Subs
Sacha Kljestan (5): My main two concerns for Sacha Kljestan before he became a regular for the USMNT were his calm under pressure and his work rate. He bettered his work rate tremendously over the past years and has reduced his turnovers in dangerous areas. However, on Wednesday night his casual work-rate defensively was unacceptable especially being that he was a substitute. With time to pressure the attacking Barrantes on the third goal, Sacha Kljestan could have helped Bradley defensively to close down the attacking run. Instead, Kljestan chose to ball-watch as the Costa Rican fullback put the nail in the coffin with the third goal.
Despite not working hard enough for the team defensively, Kljestan did provide composure on the ball and demonstrated urgency in the attack. He continues to play inconsistent for the USMNT and Chivas USA.
Freddy Adu (4.5): offered good possession, decent work-rate defensively, but did little offensively. With offensive iniatitive lacking the whole game, Freddy could have asserted himself more offensively and provide the spark.
Charlie Davies (6): With limited playing time, Davies entered the game determined to make a difference. His first speedy run and cross down the flank posed greater danger than most US' plays throughout the night. His battle for the 50/50 balls reminded supporters of his strong game against Nigeria in the Olympics.
Have you healed from this Costa Rican beatdown? Who will step up next game against the Catrachos? Who will be in the starting Xl? Share your thoughts.
In the latest soccer news: The US Men's National Team are set to face the 2nd place Ticos of CONCACAF at Saprissa Stadium on Wednesday. Several interesting developments have emerged with the news that Jozy Altidore has been declared fit to start and the inspirational Frankie Hejduk will be sidelined with a groin injury. In addition, Maurice Edu, who raised the level of his game the past few months at Rangers, will miss the game due to a thigh injury. His replacement, Ricardo Clark, continues his strong play in MLS stifling the potent TFC midfield winning 3-0.
With many question marks remaining before the game facing a Costa Rican side that has never experienced defeat in Saprissa in qualifying against the USA, Coach Bob Bradley faces several difficult decisions. What formation should he deploy against Los Ticos; the 4-4-2 or the 4-5-1? If experiencehas taught him anything, the El Salvador qualifier indicates that the ultra conservative approach might be his second option as the El Salvador midfield controlled the USA in the first 65 minutes of the match. The inclusion of Jozy Altidorein the second half ignited the offense by scoring a goal and providing more offensive pressure allowing Ching's hold up play to flourish with Altidore's dangerous runs and off-the-ball movements.
A conservative approach might take priority over a Altidore-Ching pairing, but most US supporters would like to witness the 4-4-2 that saw an exciting comeback and an Altidore hat trick against Trinidad & Tobago. In this case, a more offensive approach could take precedence over the preferred 4-5- formation that has caused offensive anemia playing opponents on the road.
What interests many is who will start at right back. Could Marvell Wynne earn the start at right back and would Jonathan Spector move to left back? This uncertainty has many US Supporters staying up late night blogging until dawn or tossing and turning at bed at night counting the proverbial sheep (or in their case counting Landon Donovan) to fall asleep.
With his familiarity playing on turf and great recovery speed, it is possible that Coach Bradley might look to play Marvell Wynne at right back if he assembles a 4-5-1 allowing for an endless amount of overlapping runs. If he deploys a 4-4-2, Coach Bradley might opt for Jonathan Spector to start at right back and start DaMarcus Beasley at left back to assume a more advancing position from the back-line.
Judging from recent statements from the media and past decisions, I opine that he will opt for a 4-4-2 with Jozy and Ching up top. The interesting decisions will lye with the wing back positions. Here is a possible starting Xl that we might witness on Wednesday.
-------Ching---Altidore-------
Donovan-Bradley-Mastroeni-Dempsey
Beasley-Bocanegra-Oneywu-Spector
------------Howard---------
If he opts for a 4-5-1, it is possible to see this starting Xl
------------Ching---------
Donovan-----Torres-------Dempsey
--------Bradley-----Mastroeni----
Beasley-Bocanegra-Oneyewu-Wynne
-----------Howard-----------
With a 4-5-1 deployed, Torres would provide the added dimension of being able to possess the ball under pressure. Donovan and Dempsey would create mismatches forcing Costa Rica to focus on their flank play and off-the-ball runs. Bradley and Mastroeni would provide the two defensive midfielders to control and limit the offensive displays that Costa Rica will attempt. Wynne and Beasley would provide the overlapping runs with the ability to recover defensively. This formation would focus on playing wide with overlapping runs which would spread out the Costa Rican formation.
Whatever the formation and lineup offers, it is important that the USMNT team start out strong and plays aggressive. If they provide the same effort and performance against El Salvador, the game will be a long and arduous for both the USMNT and its supporters. Costa Rica will enjoy the momentum of the home crowd, but the US must limit their mistakes and Costa Rica's chances to limit their fan participation. The USMNT must dictate the tempo and the level of play.
Other columnists have suggested that the US will play for the tie and will be happy with the result. However, I say, winning in Saprisa under the unfriendly confines will break one of the US chains that have oppressed them previously in CONCACAF qualifying. The other chain still waits to be broken, playing and winning against El Tri and Azteca. Perhaps, a win will create a inner confidence to take the next step to CONCACAF dominance, defeating their bitter rivals in August in Distrito Federal.
What did you think of the Author's starting Xl? Who would be in your starting Xl? Will the US earn six points? Wynne or Spetcor, who would you start? Share your thoughts.
In the latest soccer news, US Goalkeeper, Tim Howard, was featured on Sunday's Sportscenter Special. He also helped Everton finish 5th in the Barclay's Premier League defeating Clint Dempsey's Fulham 2-0. Tim Howard continues to prove that he is the man for both club and country adding another shutout to his title.
Bob Bradley announce his 23 man roster which included a couple of surprises calling Benny Felihaber and Marvelle Wynne. Although I do feel that they should receive some time in the USMNT Camp, it surprises me that he called up both players to the team given his conservative approach to away qualifiers. Sacha Kljestan left the game early on Saturday with a knock against KC Wizards. Once an update is given, SAN will pass on the status.
Enjoy your Memorial Day.
This Soccer video features Tim Howard defying the odds.
ROSTER BY POSITION GOALKEEPERS (2): Brad Guzan (Aston Villa: 5/3 SO), Tim Howard (Everton: 9/7 SO) DEFENDERS (9): Carlos Bocanegra (Rennes: 19/2), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA: 1/0), Danny Califf (Midtjylland: 4/0), Jay DeMerit (Watford: 1/0), Frankie Hejduk (Columbus Crew: 17/2), Oguchi Onyewu (Standard de Liege: 14/1), Heath Pearce (Hansa Rostock: 9/0), Jonathan Spector (West Ham United: 2/1), Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC: 0/0) MIDFIELDERS (8): Freddy Adu (Monaco: 5/1), DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers: 24/6), Michael Bradley (Borussia Mönchengladbach: 9/4), Maurice Edu (Rangers: 4/0), Benny Feilhaber (Aarhus: 0/0), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA: 9/0), Pablo Mastroeni (Colorado Rapids: 13/0), José Francisco Torres (Pachuca: 4/0) FORWARDS (5): Jozy Altidore (Xerez: 6/5), Brian Ching (Houston Dynamo: 15/6), Charlie Davies (Hammarby: 1/1), Clint Dempsey (Fulham: 15/4), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy: 28/9)
