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Soccer Goals: After the big forwards, Altidore and Cooper, starred in last weeks edition of American's Abroad Top Five, the more diminutive and obscure yanks abroad made their impression for their club teams. The recent born-again American, Edgar Castillo stole the show, scoring a magnificent 25-yard volley and game winner.

 

Although many barely know of his existence and that he is American, Jon-Paul Pittman scored his second goal of the season and game winner for Wycombe Wanders in a 2-1 victory over Bristol Rovers in English League One play. Scoring the equalizer for FC Roskilde from a corner kick, Jamil Fearrington and Roskilde prevailed with a last minute game winner to secure the 3-2 victory over Braband IF in Danish League Play.

 

For those of you concerned about Freddy Adu's club situation, fear no more. The 20-year old midfielder secured a one-year loan to Portugal's Belenenses. According to several sources close to SAN, Belenenses coach plans to utilized the creative midfielder for the season. Earning playing time will be his number one priority, as he is set to practice with the team on Tuesday, Sept 1st.

 

Without further Adu, Soccer Addict News presents to you who impressed and did not dress in the American's Abroad Top Five August 25th-31st.

 

Top Five American's Abroad:

1.Edgar Castillo (Tigres-Mexico): After earning an honorable mention last week for creating a tremendous attacking sequence, the New Mexico left back offered a clinical 25-yard volley and game winner against his former team, Santos Laguna. Although his official allegiance change has not been processed by FIFA, it is evident that he understands that he will not just waltz into the USMNT. Recognizing that his defensive skills needed improvement to receive a Coach Bradley invitation, Castillo mentioned that he is working to improve his defensive skills, while he feels that his attacking skills can contribute to the improvement and performance of the USMNT. If he keeps a humble attitude, improves his defense, and continues to score goals in this manner, the former Mexican U-23 should received consideration.

 

These soccer videos features highlights and Castillo's soccer goals against Santos Laguna.

 

 

2. Jon-Paul Pittman (Wycombe Wanderers, English League One): Entering as a substitute and playing for 30 minutes, the Oklahoma native scored the game winning goal and second of the season to give Wycombe Wanderers the 2-1 victory over Bristol Rovers. This soccer videos courtesy of Yanks Abroad Soccer Highlights.

 

3. Charlie Davies (Sochaux FC, France): After securing the penalty that gave Sochaux the game-winner against Monaco and redemption for US teammate Freddy Adu who sat idle at Monaco the whole season on loan, the former Hamarby forward offered an inspired performance, starting and playing 85 minutes. In addition, he was voted to the starting Xl by Maxifut. His club and national team future look bright.

 

 

 

4. Jamil Fearrington (FC Roskilde, Danish League 1): Scoring an equalizer from a corner kick in the 80th minute, Jamil Fearrington inspired his team to a 3-2 victory over Braband IF. The former FC Copenhagen defender hopes to propel his team to promotion to the Danish Superliga.

 

5. Jonathan Spector (West Ham United): After struggling in his 1-2 defeat to Tottenham Hotspurs facing the red-hot and speedy winger, Aaron Lennon,  West Ham United defender recovered nicely, starting and playing 90 minutes. Although the Blackburn Rovers attempted to attack his area on various occasions, he appeared poised and stifled their attacks for the majority of the game, earning the Hammers a 0-0 draw.

 

Watch Blackburn Rovers v West Ham United in Sports  |  View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com

 

Honorable Mention: Freddy Adu (Belenenses-Portugal): After many US supporters feared that Freddy Adu would remain at Benefica, relegated to the bench or even worse a reserve role, Benefica and Belenenses agreed to deal that would keep Adu in Lisbon, Portugal. Spending virtually the entire 2008/09 season in the SAN's American's Abroad relegation area, the creative play maker will attempt to impress on the field to earn additional USMNT call ups and earn a Top Five American's Abroad selection. Congratulations Freddy!!!

 

 

Relegation Bound: Players who are sitting or experienced a poor performance.

1. Heath Pearce (unattached): Still waiting for European suitors, the European deadline ends today. If he is unable to secure a deal, the left back will be heading back to the MLS.

 

2. Michael Bradley (Borussia Moenchengladbach, Germany): His coach did not dress him because he did recognize his failures on the field. Will he learn from his coach? Will the lack of playing time affect him during his national team duties?

 

3. DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers, Scottish Premier League): With the US winger unable to secure quality playing time and reports that PSG winger, Jerome Rothen, is headed to Ibrox, Beasley appears to be the odd man out. Approaching the deadline, reports have surfaced that several suitors, FC Twente and Olympiakos have expressed interest. If he does not make the move, his USMNT hopes will dwindle even more.

 

 

What do you think of the perfomances? Will Castillo be called into the next camp in October? Where would you like Heath Pearce to go? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and soccer videos: Americans Abroad August 25-31st - Castillo, Pittman, and Fearington score

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Soccer Videos: After scoring his first goal for  Hull City Fc goal against Southend in the Carling Cup and  playing well in all three appearances, Jozy Altidore's move to the English Premier League appears to be paying dividends, netting a goal and an assist in three appearances. What is even more important for the man-child forward is that he is receiving playing time. Soccernet further discusses his performances and American's abroad in Europe.

 

These soccer videos feature discusssions of Jozy Altidore and Yanks Abroad.

 

 

Netting two goals in four appearances, Charlie Davies willed his team to victoy against AS Monaco on Saturday, drawing a penalty which resulted in the game winner. Beside being voted to the starting Xl of Maxifut, a French football website, he offered several promising moves agaisnt the Monaco defense. Included in these soccer videos are his highlights.

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Will Altidore and Davies start against El Salvador? Will both players score more than ten goals this season? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Videos and soccer goals: Americans Abroad - Jozy Altidore and Charlie Davies receive recognition

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 Edgar Castillo scores against Santos Laguna from 25 yard volley and soccer goals.

Yet to be called in to the USMNT after deciding to switch from the Tricolor to the Red, white, and blue, Tigres left back, Edgar Castillo, scores from an excellent 25 yard volley, struck off the deflection. After scoring the goal, the Spanish-speaking announcers emphatically give Edgar a new rendition of his surname, Ca Ca Ca Ca Ca Castillo!!!!

Theses soccer videos feature soccer goals from Edgar Castillo and Jon-Paul Pittman.

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Jon-Paul Pittman scores game winner for League One side, Wycombe.

With very few US supporters aware of Jon-Paul Pittman as he hold dual citizenship for England and the USA, the speedy forward scores the game winner against the Bristol Rovers. After receiving the goal in the box, the Oklahoma native turned left sealing his man and sending a left footed strike to the far left corner. This goal was his second of the season, as his first occurred against Norwich City. Click here to view goal.

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Charlie Davies earns penalty resulting in Sochaux game winner

On two separate occasions, terrorizing the AS Monaco defense, Charlie Davies could have earned a penalty kick. At the 23rd minute, the US forward earned a penalty kick and the game winner, tallying 85 minutes on the pitch, as Sochaux defeated AS Monaco 1-0.

These soccer videos feature highlights of Charlie Davies.

 

Whether it was paybacks for not playing Freddy Adu when he was at Monaco or wanting to will his team to victory, the American speedster displayed a nice step-over, cross into the box, and penetrating runs at the opposing defense. In addition,  voted on the Ligue 1 starting Xl by Maxifoot.fr, Charlie Davies received great accolades from the French web site.

 

Here is a loose translation of their comments on Davies:"The American is already making [Sochaux] forget Mevlut Erding [who moved to PSG this summer]. In just four games, Charlie Davies has become indispensable to the Sochaux formation. Along with the Czech Vaclav Sverkos, he has found his mark. Lively, fast, powerful, Davies caused much worry for the Monacan defense."

What do you think of their performances? Will Jon-Paul Pittman earn more playing time this season? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals and soccer videos: American's Abroad Trio - Castillo and Pittman score and Davies earns penalty for Sochaux game-winner

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Soccer Goals: Announcing the USMNT 24-man squad in segments throughout the day added to the anticipation, US soccer's full roster has been released, offering several surprises in the process. Kyle Beckerman, Robbie Rogers, Clarence Goodson and Robbie Findley are several players that did not make the trip to Mexico.

 

Making a big splash scoring a brace against Chivas USA, bring his goal total to ten,  the RSL forward, Robbie Findley, will earn some camp time with an excellent 2009 season. Earlier today, I wrote an article, suggesting the former Beaver's inclusion to the USMNT as his speed and finishing has been excellent over the past two years. Whether or not Coach Bob Bradley read my article and decided to call him up is uncertain -- an assumption stated in a very sarcastic tone -- but his inclusion was certainly inevitable with the qualifier taking place in high altitude confines of Rio Tinto Stadium and top form.

 

Here is 24-man roster:

GOALKEEPERS- Tim Howard, Brad Guzan.

DEFENDERS- Carlos Bocanegra, Oguchi Onyewu, Jay DeMerit, Chad Marshall, Steve Cherundolo, Jonathan Spector, Jonathan Bornstein, Clarence Goodson.

MIDFIELDERS- Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, Michael Bradley, Stuart Holden, Kyle Beckerman, Ricardo Clark, Benny Feilhaber, Jose Francisco Torres, Robbie Rogers.

FORWARDS-Charlie Davies, Jozy Altidore, Brian Ching, Conor Casey, Robbie Findley.

 

With the US struggling to hold on to possession, will Coach Bradley opt for a holding and possession midfielder or opt for a central pairing more defensive minded? Lets's take a look at several possible options.

 

If Bradley elects a defensive midfield, this a potential starting Xl:

 

-----Altidore----Davies-----

Donovan-Clark-Bradley- Dempsey

Spector-Bocanegra-Demerit-Cherundolo

----------Howard------------

 

If he opts for a possession-based squad, this a potential starting Xl:

 

-----Dempsey----Davies-----

Donovan-Feilhaber-Bradley- Holden

Spector-Bocanegra-Demerit-Cherundolo

----------Howard------------

 

It is possible that if Kyle Beckerman impresses in camp, he could earn the start. If Coach Bradley values the ability to play in high altitude, we could see Findley in a sub role in the second half. This a potential starting Xl:

 

-----Altidore----Davies-----

Donovan-Beckerman-Bradley- Dempsey

Spector-Bocanegra-Demerit-Cherundolo

----------Howard------------

 

 

Kyle Beckerman could provide both the possession and defensive tenacity that Coach Bradley would like to implement with his tactics and strategy. After experiencing a solid performance against El Tri could, Dynamo midfielder, Stuart Holden, could see additional playing time.

 

What do do you think of the roster? Were you surprised by Bradley's surprise inclusions? Do you believe that Findley could be a break out performer for the USMNT? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: USMNT announced 24-Man squad for Upcoming Qualifiers

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Soccer Goals: After making an immediate impact with the game winning assist, Jozy Altidore eyes the starting forward position for Hull City. His partner in crime, Charlie Davies, earned his first start against Montepellier, losing 2-0. Sitting on the bench for AC Milan's opener, Oguchi Onyewu did not participate in Milan's 2-1 victory over Sienna. ESPN takes a look at these three Yanks Abroad. Enjoy.

 

These soccer videos feature analysis of American's abroad.

 

 

Did you see Jozy's performance? Will he earn the starting spot next week? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discuss Soccer Goals: Altidore impresses in Hull City Debut - American's Abroad Review

 

Soccer Goals: After two uninspiring performance in the Confederations Cup group stages against Italy and Brazil, coupled with a shocking performance against Costa Rica at Saprisa Stadium, US soccer forums began to heat up with topics such as "Fire Bob, Hire Klinsmann, and Bob's favorites suck".

 

 What few knew was that a miracle would take place against Egypt, despite needing a 3-0 victory from Brazil over the Azurri, the USMNT team would advance to the knockout stage to face Spain. Boasting a 35-game unbeaten streak, the Spaniards would finally meet their match, as the US kept their shape denying the Furia Roja their chance for a goal and victory.

 

 Pinch me: I'm dreaming, echoed after Clint Dempsey and Landon Donovan had scored two goals in the first half against Brazil; A surreal moment in US soccer history. All the butterflies -- those feelings you get when you first meet a beautiful women or buy a new car -- had been destroyed by an early second half goal, a let down. If you haven't seen the highlights or watched the game, then, I'm sure that you know the ending: A story book final that witnessed the USMNT concede three goals and further validate Brazil's importance on the international stage.

 

 

The same old story, a fable that end in nightmare fashion, offered a glimpse of the growing pains that US soccer has experienced over the years, inconsistency. But, for the first time, the USMNT defeated two quality opponents and challenged Brazil to its limits. Unfortunately, inconsistency reared its ugly head. The US were defeated 3-2 by the Samba Kings.

 

Entering a transition period as the talented youth attempt to overthrow the current veteran regime, Coach Bradley arrives at a point in where US soccer must identify the right players and the correct style of play to contend and advance to the knock-out stages, provided that the US does qualify for South Africa 2010.

 

If Brian Ching were not injured for the Confederations Cup, we might have never discovered Charlie Davies. With few options at his disposal and needing a huge helping of heart and energy, Coach Bradley inserted Charlie Davies in the starting lineup versus Egypt, paying immediate dividends by scoring the US' first goal, eventually leading to advancement where they defeated Spain 2-0.

 

Coach Bradley's stubbornness to play the old guard, "the experienced veterans or his favorites" oppressed the US attack, limiting the team's development. Yes, Brazil was an eye opener. Despite never regaining his 2005 form and earning little playing time for Rangers, DaMarcus Beasley was rewarded for his experience, costing the game for the Americans against Brazil in the group stages. Why was Freddy Adu punished for his lack of playing time and immaturity, while Beasley received a free pass?

 

While I admire how Coach Bradley has increased the depth pool, willing to experiment with new players, his tactical stubbornness and reluctance to play inexperienced players has stunted US Soccer's development. Blessed with the deepest pool ever for a US coach, Bradley still gravitates to the players, who offer him the greatest comfortability not necessarily the best options for the game.

 

Offering Coach Bradley a summer progress report might help to identify what he must do secure qualification and raise the level of play, heading into South Africa 2010. Let's take a look.

 

Formations and Tactics: It is understandable that the USMNT must play disciplined and compact, offering high pressure without losing their shape. But, this summer demonstrated that the US can score against the international elite. Where did we fail? Holding our lead.

 

Lack of ball control, possession, and buildup lead to our demise as Brazil, Costa Rica, and Mexico capitalized on our penchant for turnovers and inability to alleviate pressure through proper distribution. How can the US improve this facet and still maintain a 4-4-2? It's simple: The target foward role must take a backseat. 

 

Although I appreciate Brian Ching's attributes on an MLS level, his international play and Coach Bradley's antiquated tactics have relegated the US offense to a third tier unit. If the US boasted an abundance of wingers who could serve a good ball to the target forward, then Ching would make sense. However, our wing options are Dempsey and Donovan, players who prefer to advance centrally as they attack.  The Confederations Cup validated that the offense can flourish without Ching. Davies and Altidore played admirably and created several scoring chances: Dempsey also proved his value up top.

 

Playing conservative and hoping to win 1-0, reminds many of the NFL's prevent defense or Herm Edward's strategy for a 6-3 victory, a scheme that is often exploited at the end of games and the other strategy that cost him his job. For example, the recent US vs Mexico match in Azteca, illustrated that the US could attack Mexico's suspect defense. But, after scoring the goal, the team reverted to its defensive shell, hoping to preserve the win or maintain the draw.  Failing to attack Mexico's most glaring weakness suggests that Coach Bradley failed to recognize the key to victory. Otherwise, the result would be inevitable,  an Azteca record of 0-22-1.

 

 Future productive starting forwards for the USMNT.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With Dempsey proving his scoring prowess from a more advanced position and ability to hold up the ball under pressure, it would be advantageous to pair Davies and Dempsey together. Davies' speed creates the necessary space for the midfield to create better build up and offensive sequences. If Jozy gains full fitness, it is suggestible to pair Dempsey next to the former Red Bull forward or could even assume a super sub role. Here is an example of how his formation would look.

 

----Dempsey-------Davies

Donovan-Jones-Bradley-Holden/Feilhaber

Spector-DeMerit-Onyewu-Cherundolo

------------Howard---------

 

If the USMNT do succeed during the World Cup level, it is important that players with the necessary skills to possess under high pressure are included; such as Benny Feilhaber, Stuart Holden, Freddy Adu, and Jose Francisco Torres.  By attacking through a possession based approach, the US will no longer tire under the constant defensive coverage that is required, allowing players to conserve their energy while at the same time applying offensive pressure to their opponent. When the US displays an aggressive offensive approach, they have fared well against their rivals. Sitting back and absorbing pressure will result in similar performances that took place this summer: Leads will evaporate.

 

Out with old in with the new: DaMarcus Beasley, Sacha Kljestan, Danny Califf, and Brian Ching have received adequate opportunities to impress coach Bradley. Their involvement has produced little benefit in the past six months, and other players must receive opportunities to make their mark on the team. If the trialists fail, then Coach Bradley must identify quality replacements for them.

 

 Chad Marshall and Clarence Goodsen proved that they can compete at the CONCACAF level at the center back position. Full with promising prospects at right back, Bradley must consider moving several players over to left back, the Achilles tendon of US soccer. Bocanegra proved that he is better suited at central back. Bornstein and Pearce have not demonstrated any constistency. Perhaps, Michael Orozco and Edgar Castillo should receive consideration: They play consistently for their club teams, San Luis and Tigres. Distribution from the back line needs a substantial upgrade: Will US soccer and their supporters accept a "Cash for Clunkers" (aka Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save Act, or CARS)?

 

Who I would like to see more: Francisco Torres has yet to receive a full start but boasts the skills to provide possession under high pressure, allowing the team to set up their attack. With Kenny Cooper making the move to1860 Munich and playing admirably in a super sub role during the Gold Cup, his finishing, good touch, and strong work rate translate to the international level. Although he is not your typical center forward, he offers a cannon shot, good instincts, and passes well during offensive sequences. His inclusion and skill set could facilitate the US' transition to a more effective passing style.  

 

Although Eddie Johnson has been black balled by many US Supporters due to his streak of poor form for both club and country. Let me remind you that during friendlies against England and Spain in 2008, Eddie Johnson performed admirably despite the midfield's poor play. With the emergence of Jozy Altidore and Charlie Davies at forward and while Donovan has found his ideal role in the midfield, the US attack could receive a boost of octane with EJ's inclusion. His pace, passing, and decent hold up play could stretch out opposing defenses and provide additional space in the midfield to initiate attacking sequences.

 

With 12 goals in 37 appearances for the red, white, and blue, EJ still offers the allusive speed that can dissect opposing defenses and create mismatches, similar to Davies impressive impact this summer. Club playing time will be imperative for potential call ups in the future as he strives to impress Coach Roy Hodgson. If relegated to a reserve role, EJ will remain on the outside looking in -- his international future will be in doubt.

 

In order to take the USMNT to the next level, Coach Bradley must field an attacking lineup similar to the Confederations Cup starting Xl against Brazil, Egypt, and Spain. Attacking opponents aggressively while maintaining good possession will give the US the formula to victory. Developing better possession traits within the team will prove invaluable as they face more difficult opponents in South Africa.

 

Questions have been answered whether we can score, but doubts still remain concerning our ability to hold a lead. Emphasis on better possession will accomplish this goal. The question now is: Will he do it?

 

What do you think of Bradley's tactics? Is the US overachieving or underachieving? Is Coach Bradley the right man for the job? Share your thoughts.

 

Included are blogs that discus Soccer Goals: Summer Progress Report - Coach Bob Bradley

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