United States Men's National Team: The March to South Africa

[Hoosier Red]

You liked the lineup until halftime Wily Mo

[WMR]

You liked the lineup until halftime Wily Mo

I still liked the lineup. I was just responding to something John Harkes said. His commentary was really poor today.

I agree with NJ that Bob once again did a horrible job planning/timing his substitutions but the starting lineup was good.

[NJReds]

I still liked the lineup. I was just responding to something John Harkes said. His commentary was really poor today.

I agree with NJ that Bob once again did a horrible job planning/timing his substitutions but the starting lineup was good.

Agreed. The starting lineup was good and the team was playing well. After the red card, they were doomed. Even though they got the PK, Italy was destined to dominate possession and it was inevitable that they would be Howard more than once.

[WMR]

Agreed. The starting lineup was good and the team was playing well. After the red card, they were doomed. Even though they got the PK, Italy was destined to dominate possession and it was inevitable that they would be Howard more than once.

Yeah, Bob didn't do his team any favors with the way he handled his subs, but the referee was the real villain today. Just dreadful all the way around. Awarded a horrible red and then turns a blind eye to a clear-cut penalty at the end.

And it really gets under my skin that the freaking turncoat Rossi netted 2 against us. Oh well.

[timmario66]

How does Bradley hold his third sub until 5 minutes left? What a dope.

Gus Hiddink is a free agent, recently let go as the adviser at Chelsea. If the US Soccer Federation had any smarts, they'd get him here for whatever the cost.

Guus is Russia's NT coach. That's why he's not Chelsea's coach any longer.

[WMR]

Folks are LIVID over the way Rossi celebrated after scoring versus the US.

Apparently Klose and Podolski do not celebrate when they score versus Poland.

What he did is considered very poor sportsmanship and low-class.

http://www.bigsoccer.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1067675

[Yachtzee]

Guus is Russia's NT coach. That's why he's not Chelsea's coach any longer.

If the USMNT makes a coaching change, I think we're more likely to see an MLS coach like Preki or Sigi Schmid come on before we see a top European coach come over. A European is more likely to demand more control and upset the US Soccer apple cart.

[M2]

Folks are LIVID over the way Rossi celebrated after scoring versus the US.

Apparently Klose and Podolski do not celebrate when they score versus Poland.

What he did is considered very poor sportsmanship and low-class.

http://www.bigsoccer.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1067675

Aside from those being his first goals in a major international competition (he netted one against N. Ireland in a friendly two weeks ago), I think the guy ought to be breaking out a limbo for scoring against the U.S. There's nothing like

And I think it's great that U.S. fans are pissed off at him too.

[Yachtzee]

Folks are LIVID over the way Rossi celebrated after scoring versus the US.

Apparently Klose and Podolski do not celebrate when they score versus Poland.

What he did is considered very poor sportsmanship and low-class.

http://www.bigsoccer.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1067675

I think it's upsetting only if you held out hopes he might one day change his mind and come over to the US. I say screw him, he's Italian now. On the other hand, Welcome Jermaine Jones!

Klose and Podolski might have their own reasons for playing it low key against Poland. Germany and Poland have a much more complicated relationship than the US and Italy.

[WMR]

I think it's upsetting only if you held out hopes he might one day change his mind and come over to the US. I say screw him, he's Italian now. On the other hand, Welcome Jermaine Jones!

Klose and Podolski might have their own reasons for playing it low key against Poland. Germany and Poland have a much more complicated relationship than the US and Italy.

Very good point.

[WMR]

Aside from those being his first goals in a major international competition (he netted one against N. Ireland in a friendly two weeks ago), I think the guy ought to be breaking out a limbo for scoring against the U.S. There's nothing like

And I think it's great that U.S. fans are pissed off at him too.

Hahaha, the passion is there, isn't it. :D

I'll admit I feel it.

[Yachtzee]

Anyone else find it ironic that ESPN had Jim Rome is Burning on after the game? I didn't even bother watching it. I know if Rome has anything to say about soccer, it's either about fans throwing bags of urine on each other or how US Soccer Fan is an uptight loser who needs to find a "real sport."

[Yachtzee]

Aside from those being his first goals in a major international competition (he netted one against N. Ireland in a friendly two weeks ago), I think the guy ought to be breaking out a limbo for scoring against the U.S. There's nothing like

And I think it's great that U.S. fans are pissed off at him too.

I'll admit that the Italians are the team I love to hate. They seem like the Cobra Kai to our Daniel LaRussas. If only we could find our Miyagi-san to lead the USMNT to victory.

[WMR]

I'll admit that the Italians are the team I love to hate. They seem like the Cobra Kai to our Daniel LaRussas. If only we could find our Miyagi-san to lead the USMNT to victory.

:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

So true.

[M2]

I'll admit that the Italians are the team I love to hate. They seem like the Cobra Kai to our Daniel LaRussas. If only we could find our Miyagi-san to lead the USMNT to victory.

He just scored two goals against us. Ralph Macchio went darkside.

[WMR]

Replay of the Brazil/Egypt game on now... http://www.justin.tv/jonathanviera19

[Yachtzee]

Replay of the Brazil/Egypt game on now... http://www.justin.tv/jonathanviera19

No hablo. No English feed?

[WMR]

No hablo. No English feed?

You gotta take what you can get. :D

[NJReds]

Guus is Russia's NT coach. That's why he's not Chelsea's coach any longer.

Hadn't seen that he re-upped through 2010. My mistake. The US wouldn't fire Bradley during WC Qualification, anyway.

[NJReds]

Hahaha, the passion is there, isn't it. :D

I'll admit I feel it.

Would Adu celebrate v. Ghana (if he ever finds the field)? Did Dooley celebrate against England? I've got no problem. He made his choice when he was very young. The US poaches players from other countries, too. It's part of international soccer.

Too bad, though. He'd look great pairing w/Altidore.

[Yachtzee]

Would Adu celebrate v. Ghana (if he ever finds the field)? Did Dooley celebrate against England? I've got no problem. He made his choice when he was very young. The US poaches players from other countries, too. It's part of international soccer.

Too bad, though. He'd look great pairing w/Altidore.

Dooley was German, so I suspect he would have celebrated against England. :)

Italy has a long history of poaching the best talent from other national squads by finding just about any Italian connection they can. Been reading "The Ball Is Round" and since the earliest days of international competition, the Italians have been known for bringing in foreigners, mainly Argentinians, to help their squad.

Of course, the US has had plenty of foreign-born players on the USMNT past and present. The difference is that the US has very open citizenship rules, such that anyone who wants to and puts in the effort can become a naturalized US citizen. In most European countries, and I am assuming Italy is the same, not everyone can become a citizen even if they are born in that country. They must have Italian or German "blood," that is, they must have parents or grandparents who were natural born. Now Giusseppi Rossi is pretty obviously of Italian descent, but sometimes being a top player for an Italian pro team will sometimes result in the appearance of Italian relations in your bloodline.

[NJReds]

Dooley was German, so I suspect he would have celebrated against England.:)

Oops. My bad. I thought he was from the UK.


Italy has a long history of poaching the best talent from other national squads by finding just about any Italian connection they can. Been reading "The Ball Is Round" and since the earliest days of international competition, the Italians have been known for bringing in foreigners, mainly Argentinians, to help their squad.

A lot of Italians emigrated to Argentina during the war. Currently they have Camoranesi, who was born in Argentina to Italian parents. Italy could've called Amauri, the Brazilian that took Italian citizenship, but to date have chosen not to. FWIW, Brazil isn't in a rush to call him either.

The French have played foreign players as well ... or players from "French Territories." I think all of these teams take whatever advantage they can.

Rossi isn't the "one who got away" though. He always wanted to play for Italy, and honestly, who thought that a US born soccer talent would be able to achieve that goal. It is possible, that had he not moved to Italy to train with Parma's youth squad at a very young age, that he wouldn't have developed into the world class player that he is today.

[NJReds]

Gotta love the soccer coverage in the Euro press. Apparently the Spanish are even more upset about Rossi than the Americans.



Spanish Press blast Italy and Rossi
Tuesday 16 June, 2009

In a quite sensational attack, Spanish newspaper AS has called Giuseppe Rossi 'a traitor' and believes Italy did not deserve to beat the USA.

The Azzurri won 3-1 after going behind late in the first half to a Landon Donovan penalty.

Rossi then came on and changed everything scoring Italy's first and third goal to secure victory.

The 22-year-old Villarreal striker was born in America and lived there until he was 14 when he moved to Italy.

“They play bad, they don't deserve it and they win. Where is the story?” AS wrote in vitriolic fashion.

They described the Azzurri's performance 'as pallid as the new official Italy shirt.'

Italy apparently won because they had 'other virtues' and practiced 'the other football.'

AS praised Rossi, saying: “Thanks to him, Italy played with 13 men.” However, they also called him 'a traitor' and 'the latest Italian trick.'

“Rossi was born in New Jersey, the son of Italian parents. He lived there for 14 years and he is now 22,” AS wrote.

“As a child, he played baseball. He is more American than any other thing.”

To finish, AS likened his goals to patricide, the act of killing one's father.

[WMR]

:laugh:

[M2]

Got to love the Spanish press fuming in advance of a potential Confed Cup meeting next week. For the record, Rossi scoring for Italy against the U.S. would be slightly more legitimate than Marcos Senna scoring for Spain against Brazil.

Then again, poaching Brazilians is a time-honored soccer tradition (one the U.S. would be wise to observe).

[Yachtzee]

Oops. My bad. I thought he was from the UK.



A lot of Italians emigrated to Argentina during the war. Currently they have Camoranesi, who was born in Argentina to Italian parents. Italy could've called Amauri, the Brazilian that took Italian citizenship, but to date have chosen not to. FWIW, Brazil isn't in a rush to call him either.

The French have played foreign players as well ... or players from "French Territories." I think all of these teams take whatever advantage they can.

Rossi isn't the "one who got away" though. He always wanted to play for Italy, and honestly, who thought that a US born soccer talent would be able to achieve that goal. It is possible, that had he not moved to Italy to train with Parma's youth squad at a very young age, that he wouldn't have developed into the world class player that he is today.

The French have much more liberal citizenship rules than other countries. They consider their territories "Overseas France" and issue French passports to those born in the territories. France is easily one of the most multicultural countries of Europe because of its liberal immigration and citizenship policies.

There are Italian immigrants everywhere, but Argentina has been particularly hard hit by poaching international footballers. I think at one time, a significant portion of Argentina's World Cup squad ended up playing for Italy by the next World Cup.

I do, however, find it funny that the Spanish are up in arms over Rossi appearing for Italy, considering one of their all-time greats, Alfredo di Stefano, was an Argentinian of Italian descent who was acquired by Real Madrid under suspicious circumstances.

Rossi? He can go ahead and play for Italy. I just wish Italy was coming here for a game. It would be fun to see how the Italians do on our turf, considering how close we play them.

[Betterread]

Got to love the Spanish press fuming in advance of a potential Confed Cup meeting next week. For the record, Rossi scoring for Italy against the U.S. would be slightly more legitimate than Marcos Senna scoring for Spain against Brazil.

Then again, poaching Brazilians is a time-honored soccer tradition (one the U.S. would be wise to observe).

This is my reading. The Spanish Press are relevant in their criticism. The Italian squad turned in a mediocre performance and the Spanish are disappointed. Their representatives are performing at a high level and they want a challenge. You pointed out their love of beautiful football. Well, Italy isn't showing that they can keep up with Spain. So the press will hope Brazil's equally dismal form vrs. Egypt isn't more of the same disappointing soccer. The US had gaping holes in their defense that Italy didn't exploit until the US was tired from being one man short. It was a clinical, boring, patient win for Italy.

[Yachtzee]

This is my reading. The Spanish Press are relevant in their criticism. The Italian squad turned in a mediocre performance and the Spanish are disappointed. Their representatives are performing at a high level and they want a challenge. You pointed out their love of beautiful football. Well, Italy isn't showing that they can keep up with Spain. So the press will hope Brazil's equally dismal form vrs. Egypt isn't more of the same disappointing soccer. The US had gaping holes in their defense that Italy didn't exploit until the US was tired from being one man short. It was a clinical, boring, patient win for Italy.

Italy didn't really seem to have any desire to take it to the US until the second half, when the Americans were starting to tire. Gilardino seemed more intent on sitting down and trying to get a penalty or free kick rather than going for goal. It wasn't until they brought on Rossi and Luca Toni when it seemed like they decided they wanted to shoot the ball.

[improbus]

Italy didn't really seem to have any desire to take it to the US until the second half, when the Americans were starting to tire. Gilardino seemed more intent on sitting down and trying to get a penalty or free kick rather than going for goal. It wasn't until they brought on Rossi and Luca Toni when it seemed like they decided they wanted to shoot the ball.

As good as Italy can be, they do tend to play down to their competition. They don't have nearly enough "style" and "playmakers" to simply blow teams out of the water. They are a solid tactical side who has solid parts that work well together, but they very rarely blow people out of the water.

[improbus]

Let's go Brazil. BRING IT!!!

[Yachtzee]

It's SOCCER TIME!

[improbus]

This is the best part of being a teacher, I get to watch International Soccer, Wimbledon, and the Tour De France when I wake up!

[Yachtzee]

Has anyone seen Landon Donovan and Dave Matthews in the same place?

[Yachtzee]

Wonder what WilyMo thinks of this lineup w/ Beasley and Kljestan starting.

[improbus]

Has anyone seen Landon Donovan and Dave Matthews in the same place?
I think Lando needs to pig out on a couple dozen Outback Cheese Fries to get to Dave's level.

[Yachtzee]

Brazil's National Anthem sounds like Gilbert and Sullivan.

[Yachtzee]

Lando looks small next to Lucio. In the US, Lucio would play tight end.

[Yachtzee]

That didn't take long. Brazil scores 1-0

[improbus]

That was such a great ball on the goal. We really need someone who can deliver a ball like that.

[improbus]

Brazil is diving like crazy and getting the calls. Not a good sign for the US.

[NJReds]

Brazil will not play tactical soccer like Italy. If they smell blood, this could be an ugly result. The US needs to gain possession in the midfield and not turn the ball back over to Brazil or its off to the races. They need to equalize and not let the Brazilians play their game. Easier said than done.

[improbus]

Brazil will not play tactical soccer like Italy. If they smell blood, this could be an ugly result. The US needs to gain possession in the midfield and not turn the ball back over to Brazil or its off to the races. They need to equalize and not let the Brazilians play their game. Easier said than done.
Prophetic

[Yachtzee]

Brazil will not play tactical soccer like Italy. If they smell blood, this could be an ugly result. The US needs to gain possession in the midfield and not turn the ball back over to Brazil or its off to the races. They need to equalize and not let the Brazilians play their game. Easier said than done.

No sooner spoken than done. Beasley's mistake opens up a fast break for Brazil and a goal for Robinho. 2-0

[Yachtzee]

Yeah technical difficulties!

[NJReds]

No sooner spoken than done. Beasley's mistake opens up a fast break for Brazil and a goal for Robinho. 2-0

And Beasley's starting, why? We know what he can and can't do at this point. There has to be someone on the bench with a higher ceiling that deserves a shot to show they can perform at a world class level.

[NJReds]

Brazil - Italy will be an interesting contest. And most likely the loser of that game will play Spain in the next round.

[dsmith421]

Beasley is actually a negative for the US right now. He hasn't played well in like five years.

[Hoosier Red]

And Beasley's starting, why? We know what he can and can't do at this point. There has to be someone on the bench with a higher ceiling that deserves a shot to show they can perform at a world class level.

Bradley's fooled by Beasley's gaudy numbers with his club team.

[NJReds]

2-0 at half. Could've been worse. The US needs to attack immediately to see if they can get one back quickly. If so, they can make a game of it by counterattacking Brazil's many offensive forays into US territory. I'd like to see Adu on the field in the second half, but I don't think it'll happen.

More likely is the Bradley will make substitutions in the 75+ minute with the score at 4-0. I hope I'm wrong but I have no faith in this guy as a coach.

[NJReds]

Connor Casey in for Beasley starting the second half.

[Yachtzee]

Kljestan has been sent off but they never showed the card on the feed.

[NJReds]

Kljestan has been sent off but they never showed the card on the feed.

I can't type what I want to because I'd get a warning. But can't the US learn to tackle correctly? This 10-man nonsense is killing them. They must have an awful rep among world officials.

Honestly, the way that they're playing. They'd be better off not qualifying for the World Cup. Even if they do. It'll be three and out again.

This almost makes me wish that Steve Sampson was coach again.

[Yachtzee]

Well, at least an utter dismantling by Brazil in the Confederations Cup gives the US enough time to identify problems and make changes before the World Cup.

[NJReds]

Well, at least an utter dismantling by Brazil in the Confederations Cup gives the US enough time to identify problems and make changes before the World Cup.

Only they won't. They'll lean on the crutch of the red cards as an excuse.

Unless there are injuries, it'll be the same group next year. I'm sure of it.

[Yachtzee]

Only they won't. They'll lean on the crutch of the red cards as an excuse.

Unless there are injuries, it'll be the same group next year. I'm sure of it.

You're probably right. Maybe we'll get lucky and Beasley will retire from international play after the Confederations Cup.

[Playadlc]

I just tried to watch the game on DVR, and stopped after ~30 minutes. I'm guessing there is no point in watching the rest.

Beasley sucks. On the bright side, his umpteenth straight ridiculous performance probably guarantees he doesn't see another minute of soccer ever again. If our goal in entering this tournament was to help warm up to 2010 (which it should have been), then it is inexcusable for Adu and Torres to not play a single minute. I just don't get it.

BB might find himself on the hot seat if we don't show up for the Egypt game.

[WMR]

I honestly hate Bob Bradley. Awesome move going with Beasley one more time you clown.

[Playadlc]

How Bradley can not see that DaMarcus Beasley minus a step of speed=useless at the international level is completely baffling to me and pretty much every American that watches soccer.

[WMR]

Why even call in Adu or Torres if you're not going to play them?

A freaking GOLDEN opportunity against FREAKING BRAZIL and that @#$@@##$@%%% wastes it with Kljestan and Beasley. Way to improve the squad, Bob, you..... ahh, too bad this is a family site.

[WMR]

Bob is just an idiot. He is the perfect personification of all the worst things about "AMERICAN SOCCER." Just nauseating.

[Yachtzee]

Go Egypt!

[dsmith421]

Bob is just an idiot. He is the perfect personification of all the worst things about "AMERICAN SOCCER." Just nauseating.

He's a mediocrity. They need to flush out the entire USSF and bring in an entirely new front office staff, plus an English-speaking foreign coach with full authority to sift through the player pool and discard the chaff, even if they are veteran members of the team.

[WMR]

What did you all think of Clint Dempsey's antics there at the end? :laugh:

[WMR]

He's a mediocrity. They need to flush out the entire USSF and bring in an entirely new front office staff, plus an English-speaking foreign coach with full authority to sift through the player pool and discard the chaff, even if they are veteran members of the team.

I wish like hell that would happen. So many little fiefdoms in USSF, however, and no one wants to give up power.

[NJReds]

Go Egypt!

Yahoo's UK site has a running live commentary on the game. Some of it is strange, but funny, like this gem:


Pirlo tries his luck with another free-kick from around 40 yards out but that shot is as over as Britney Spears's career.

:laugh:

[NJReds]

What did you all think of Clint Dempsey's antics there at the end? :laugh:

Unfortunatly, I didn't see the game. What did he do?

[WMR]

Clint Dempsey tried every trick he's learned since he was playing U-8 soccer, apparently.

Funny thread about it:

http://www.bigsoccer.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1071074

[NJReds]

Clint Dempsey tried every trick he's learned since he was playing U-8 soccer, apparently.

Funny thread about it:

http://www.bigsoccer.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1071074

Dempsey's got talent but he's a joke, really, with his actions. His antics in the Honduras game led to the opponent's first goal, and that was a World Cup qualifier, not a friendly.

[Yachtzee]

Wow. Egypt wins!

[Yachtzee]

Did anyone catch the Egypt-Italy game? I just caught the end of the game and it was crazy. 5 minutes of stoppage time, Italy pulling every trick in the book, and Egypt parrying a number of throw-ins, free kicks and corners in their end.

[M2]

Why even call in Adu or Torres if you're not going to play them?

Adu shouldn't be on the team. Not playing is just common sense.

Torres is low in the pecking order. He got a shot against Costa Rica and didn't do much with it. I suspect he'll get another shot against Egypt.

[WMR]

Adu shouldn't be on the team. Not playing is just common sense.

Torres is low in the pecking order. He got a shot against Costa Rica and didn't do much with it. I suspect he'll get another shot against Egypt.

Adu actually did fairly well in his limited minutes versus CR.

WHY is Torres low in the pecking order? He's in great form for a Mexican soccer club... Sacha Kljestan?!?!?!?! :thumbdown

If Torres is low on the pecking order then Kljestan should be BELOW the pecking order right now.

[M2]

A call for Bradley's head (http://voices.kansascity.com/node/4861) has come up from Kansas City. Expect a chorus to follow after Egypt thrashes the USMNT (and it will).

While my working assumption has been that Bradley is guaranteed to stay at the helm through 2010, this would be the appropriate time to give him the ax (not to mention just cause). The fault found in Bruce Arena was that he wasn't able to elevate the team's play to the next level. At Confed Cup Bradley has proven he's made no progress. I don't hate Bradley, but he's never taking the U.S. to the next level.

The USSF really ought to dare for something grander.

[M2]

Adu actually did fairly well in his limited minutes versus CR.

WHY is Torres low in the pecking order? He's in great form for a Mexican soccer club... Sacha Kljestan?!?!?!?! :thumbdown

If Torres is low on the pecking order then Kljestan should be BELOW the pecking order right now.

Adu was playing during garbage time in the CR game. My take on him is still that if he can't get a run with a club then he's got no business playing for a national side - none, zero, zip, zilch, nada. He ought to be unceremoniously dumped until he can get his act together. Extending him the honor of a USMNT slot when he's done nothing to earn it is a joke. No other potential World Cup qualifier engages in that sort of thing.

Kljestan had himself a strong year that came to a screeching hault in March. Haven't watched enough of him to know what's wrong there. As you noted, Torres has a case for being in the mix. He'll be getting chances, probably on Sunday and definitely during Gold Cup. He might be the exact right guy to have in the starting XI for the trip to Azteca. For Torres, it's a matter of standing out when he gets those chances.

Along those lines, I'd like to see more of Michael Orozco too.

[Hoosier Red]

A call for Bradley's head (http://voices.kansascity.com/node/4861) has come up from Kansas City. Expect a chorus to follow after Egypt thrashes the USMNT (and it will).


Just an off topic question, but is KC a soccer hotspot I hadn't heard of? When the Wizards were formed it made sense because Lamar Hunt founded the league, but I'd always operated under the assumption that the MLS team should have been placed in St.Louis instead.

If that article had been written in the Columbus Dispatch or Indy Star or Cincinnati Enquirer, 80% of the audience would have said WHO?

[M2]

Just an off topic question, but is KC a soccer hotspot I hadn't heard of? When the Wizards were formed it made sense because Lamar Hunt founded the league, but I'd always operated under the assumption that the MLS team should have been placed in St.Louis instead.

If that article had been written in the Columbus Dispatch or Indy Star or Cincinnati Enquirer, 80% of the audience would have said WHO?

Honestly, I don't know.

Yet my take is that if they're getting restless in KC, wait until New York, LA and Chicago take their shots at you.

[NJReds]

Adu shouldn't be on the team. Not playing is just common sense.

Torres is low in the pecking order. He got a shot against Costa Rica and didn't do much with it. I suspect he'll get another shot against Egypt.

It's Bradley's job to fill the roster with guys who can play. If Adu can't play, he shouldn't be on the team. He played well in Olympic qualifying; and he played well when he was on the U20 and U23 teams.

Same goes for Torres. If he's not good enough to play for the national team, then why bring him to South Africa. Call Wynalda out of the booth.

Bradley has nothing to gain by putting Beasley on the field. And Dempsey should be benched for his nonsense.

[M2]

It's Bradley's job to fill the roster with guys who can play. If Adu can't play, he shouldn't be on the team. He played well in Olympic qualifying; and he played well when he was on the U20 and U23 teams.

And no other national team would give him time of day based on two consecutive seasons of rotting on the pine at the club level.

Whatever talent Adu's got - and count me as one who thinks that's been VASTLY overrated - has been undermined by a lack of experience and game sharpness. Some kid who's barely played in two years has no business out on the field against Italy and Brazil. I don't care what you think about Beasley, there's a nearly endless list of players who should be there instead of Adu.

Adu's presence on the team is the mark against Bradley (and probably more of a statement of how much Bradley's strings get pulled by the USSF).

[WMR]

Adu's overrated, huh?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmExheyGwKs

[M2]

Adu's overrated, huh?

Completely. Honestly, U-20 tournaments are perfect places to get yourself overrated. Back in 2003, Eddie Johnson was the big U-20 star for the U.S. (he even won the Golden Shoe award for the tournament) and I don't think I'm gilding the lily at all to say he turned out to be not so good.

In fact, check out the list of nobodies on the rosters (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2003_FIFA_World_Youth_Championship_squads) of some of the leading nations from that 2003 tournament, players who should now be dominating the game. Argentina had a few future stars. Spain had Iniesta. Brazil won with Dani Alves and a whole pile of guys still in Brazil or secondary Euro leagues.

A good showing in a U-20 tournament can amount to very little.

If Adu can't cut it at the club level, he shouldn't be playing at the international level. Period.

[WMR]

Completely. Honestly, U-20 tournaments are perfect places to get yourself overrated. Back in 2003, Eddie Johnson was the big U-20 star for the U.S. (he even won the Golden Shoe award for the tournament) and I don't think I'm gilding the lily at all to say he turned out to be not so good.

In fact, check out the list of nobodies on the rosters (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2003_FIFA_World_Youth_Championship_squads) of some of the leading nations from that 2003 tournament, players who should now be dominating the game. Argentina had a few future stars. Spain had Iniesta. Brazil won with Dani Alves and a whole pile of guys still in Brazil or secondary Euro leagues.

A good showing in a U-20 tournament can amount to very little.

If Adu can't cut it at the club level, he shouldn't be playing at the international level. Period.

Did you watch the vid? That is quality. Adu creates havoc for opposing defenses. His vision is right up there with Landon in terms of seeing plays develop and understanding how to facilitate that.

Adu CAN cut it. Is he being given a fair opportunity by his club?

[Hoosier Red]

Did you watch the vid? That is quality. Adu creates havoc for opposing defenses. His vision is right up there with Landon in terms of seeing plays develop and understanding how to facilitate that.

Adu CAN cut it. Is he being given a fair opportunity by his club?

I know Real Salt Lake wasn't exactly crying to let him go in the first place. He's never been very popular with teammates.
Maybe if the guy's been on 4 teams and can't get a "fair" chance, there's something else going on.

Youtube videos are about as worthwhile as And 1 Dunk contests.

[M2]

Did you watch the vid? That is quality. Adu creates havoc for opposing defenses. His vision is right up there with Landon in terms of seeing plays develop and understanding how to facilitate that.

Adu CAN cut it. Is he being given a fair opportunity by his club?

I watched the whole tournament when it happened. He had some nice games there. Yet there's a gulf between the U-20 tournament and being a world class player. Does he have skills which might mature into something? Sure.

But they haven't yet. DCU and RSL were happy to see him go. Benfica and Monaco had almost no use for him. At this point it is his fault and he shouldn't be anywhere near a national team until he can get a regular run at the club level.

[WMR]

I know Real Salt Lake wasn't exactly crying to let him go in the first place. He's never been very popular with teammates.
Maybe if the guy's been on 4 teams and can't get a "fair" chance, there's something else going on.

Youtube videos are about as worthwhile as And 1 Dunk contests.

That's just incorrect. You can judge a lot about a player's ability and vision from a video clip.

[NJReds]

That's just incorrect. You can judge a lot about a player's ability and vision from a video clip.

Even if you can't, Adu played well in the Olympic qualifiers and the Olympics.

He played well with Benfica, I'm not sure why put him out on loan when reports said that the coaching staff was impressed with his work ethic.

I agree that he needs to be on a club where he'll play.

[Hoosier Red]

Fine, show all the video clips of Adu trying to go 1 on 3, getting stripped, and not bothering to play defense and I'll be satisfied.

[IslandRed]

That's just incorrect. You can judge a lot about a player's ability and vision from a video clip.


Fine, show all the video clips of Adu trying to go 1 on 3, getting stripped, and not bothering to play defense and I'll be satisfied.

Absolutely. Good scouting doesn't stop with the highlight reel.

[WMR]

Absolutely. Good scouting doesn't stop with the highlight reel.

I hope no one was implying that it does.

[Yachtzee]

American Gothic

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs109.snc1/4926_1124701870924_1028443509_30342985_6984218_n.j pg

From this thread (http://www.bigsoccer.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1073538) on Big Soccer.

[M2]

He played well with Benfica, I'm not sure why put him out on loan when reports said that the coaching staff was impressed with his work ethic.

Because that was a fluff piece and Benfica was hoping Monaco would take him off their hands. It's an open question as to where he's headed next.

[Hoosier Red]

Nice, 1-0 as Davies beats up the keeper for a goal.

[Yachtzee]

Can you believe it? US up 3-0 on Egypt and Brazil up 3-0 on Italy. Can the US actually advance to the next round?

[Yachtzee]

Italy still down 3-0 in stoppage time

[Yachtzee]

Come on Brazil!

[Yachtzee]

Brazil wins!

[Yachtzee]

US up 3-0 at 90 min. stoppage time.

[Yachtzee]

US needs to do a better job of clearing.

[Yachtzee]

US wins! They advance to play Spain!

[11larkin11]

US advances!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Yachtzee]

Where's WilyMo? Out celebrating?

[WMR]

HOLY CRAP

hahahahaahahahahahah

My Lord I was on pins and needles that last 20 minutes!!!!!!!! :laugh:

What an exhilarating game.

[Playadlc]

The best part of all this is that it really wipes out how bad the first two games were. If we lost against Egypt today we'd be limping into the Gold Cup with confidence shattered and our wretched performance would surely be on everyone's mind come next summer.

With this win, particularly if we put up a good fight and show well against Spain (spirited 2-1 defeat would be fine), then that will be more great experience and I'm sure have everyone in a positive frame of mind going forward.

Also, this shows what we've known all along. When this US team plays hard and well, we can be play with anyone. We defend in numbers, always have world class goalkeeping, and have a couple players who can be dangerous.

[WMR]

You know one aspect of this that feels especially sweet? We send Italy home.

The turncoat notched a couple goals but THE UNITED STATES advanced to the Semi-Finals. :D

[Hoosier Red]

I was completely expecting that the non-handball at the goal line was going to be the difference between the US advancing and not.

[dsmith421]

I was completely expecting that the non-handball at the goal line was going to be the difference between the US advancing and not.

Me too. For me today's match was the best USA performance since the Nine drew Italy in Germany. Under Arena you could always count on our team to play with 100% commitment and spirit. That was lacking in Bradley's teams until today.

We've got absolutely nothing to lose against Spain, no excuse not to give it an absolute go.

[RawOwl UK]

I almost put money on you guys as well. :)

[M2]

Great win for the U.S.

1. Egypt clearly thought the game would be a cakewalk and went into shock when it wasn't.

2. Jay DeMerit had himself a quality game. He and Onyewu clamped down on everything the Egyptians attempted.

3. Clint Dempsey gets his head on an uncanny number of balls.

4. John Harkes was all kinds of awful on the game broadcast.

[DTCromer]

“All of the critics in America who said we were no good after losing to Italy and Brazil, let’s see what they say now,” Michael Bradley said.

That's like Brandon Phillips saying, "All the critics in Cincinnati who said we were no good after losing to KC and Washington . . . let's see what they say now."

[WMR]

Great win for the U.S.

1. Egypt clearly thought the game would be a cakewalk and went into shock when it wasn't.

2. Jay DeMerit had himself a quality game. He and Onyewu clamped down on everything the Egyptians attempted.

3. Clint Dempsey gets his head on an uncanny number of balls.

4. John Harkes was all kinds of awful on the game broadcast.

5. Landon Donovan showed once more why he's the best player on the USMNT. Hope you give him the credit that he deserves.

[Hoosier Red]

Great win for the U.S.

4. John Harkes was all kinds of awful on the game broadcast.

I had "If the results hold, Brazil will win group B and the US will move on as the 2nd place team." stuck in my head all night last night.

[Hoosier Red]

5. Landon Donovan showed once more why he's the best player on the USMNT. Hope you give him the credit that he deserves.

Agreed, he played a great game off ball. He's the best player on the team. But that's sort of the problem.

[NJReds]

5. Landon Donovan showed once more why he's the best player on the USMNT. Hope you give him the credit that he deserves.

Shocking results. The US played much better than I thought that they could given the results of the first two games. And I didn't think Brazil would beat Italy by 3 goals either.

Hopefully the US brings the same energy vs. Spain.

[NJReds]

I was completely expecting that the non-handball at the goal line was going to be the difference between the US advancing and not.

That's an inexcusable non-call in a pee-wee game much less a high-profile FIFA tournament. Ridiculous.

Reminded me of the US v. Germany game in WC 2002 in Korea.

[M2]

5. Landon Donovan showed once more why he's the best player on the USMNT. Hope you give him the credit that he deserves.

Lando had a good game. I like him out left. It gives him space to run at defenders with the ball on his feet, which is his strength.

I suspect had the U.S. come up one goal short, we'd be discussing Lando's inability to deliver a quality final ball in a few instances (though he's hardly alone on the U.S. squad in that regard). So I'd call it a good game from him instead of a stellar one.

IMO, Bradley was the best player out there for the U.S. yesterday, followed by some of the defenders. Spector hit a dynamite cross for the third goal and locked down the right flank all game long.

Yet Egypt, which put on a great display of wildly inconsistent game-to-game African football, wasn't the test for the U.S. players or the team as a whole. The test at this tournament was the Euro and South American superpowers. It was a great game and it makes a nice story, but if Spain wallops the USMNT like Italy and Brazil did, then I don't think anyone on the team is going to deserve a whole lot of credit.

[WMR]

I'm more interested in how the squad performs and how they look than the actual result versus Spain.

Also: Will Bob Bradley pass the Spector Test? He is possibly our most skilled fullback and I pray that BB understands that JS should be bumped ahead of Heyduk and 'Dolo on the depth chart. Hopefully that last cross he hit that CD buried will seal his fate in this regard.

[M2]

I'm more interested in how the squad performs and how they look than the actual result versus Spain.

Same here. It's not the score so much as whether they can show they belong on the same pitch with Spain.

IMO, this is a big test for Gooch. The knock on him is he gets turned around a bit too easily by teams that can play it quick across the carpet. A good game on Wednesday and he's probably looking at a fat contract with a prominent club. A shaky game and he might not be as desired on the open market. He probably has more to gain/lose than any player on the U.S. squad.

I also want to see if Bradley can maintain any sort of possession against the Spanish midfield.

[WMR]

MATCH RATINGS

Guzan- 7. Made a few quality saves and did a good job bossing his back line. Very steady. An awesome game for him to gain invaluable experience for the future.

Spector- 8.5. Man this guy was everywhere yesterday. The cross to Dempsey was pure class. He should be a member of the regular starting XI moving forward.

Gooch- 8.0. An overall great match. Won nearly every ball that came his way in the air.

DeMerit- 7.5. Slightly less effective than Gooch. Still played a hell of a game.

Bornstein- 7.0. Good game from Bornstein. Nothing spectacular, but didn't get skinned either.

Michael Bradley- 8.5. Hard work as usual but also got forward much better than in recent matches to help avoid the empty bucket.

Rico Clarke- 7.0. Decent match. Nothing spectacular but did well enough on defense. No red cards, which is a plus.

Clint Dempsey- 6.5. You really wouldn't want to see my rating had CD not netted that 3rd goal. Before he scored, it was one of the worst performances by a Nat in quite some time. I couldn't believe how many times he just gave the ball away and he did it a couple times in areas that could have easily led to an Egyptian goal.

Landon Donovan- 9.0 (MOTM). Class. Worked hard the ENTIRE GAME. Was perhaps a bit TOO unselfish at times but man did he makes things happen versus Egypt or what.

Charlie Davies - 8.0. Worked very hard but seemed to do so without any real purpose much of the time. The workman-like goal earns him another full point in my rating.

Jozy Altidore - 7.5. Played a very good match, IMO. Did a good job holding up the ball and maintaining possession while he was in there.

Bob Bradley - 6.0. I'm giving him an average rating for the match b/c we did win after all, and the squad played inspired. His subs knock him down the most for this match... he's just not a very good tactician and fails at properly utilizing his subs more often than not. BUT, it worked out, for at least one match.

[Hoosier Red]

What do you guys think of a

Bocanegra-DeMerit-Onyewu-Spector back line. I'd like to see that in a meaningful game.

[WMR]

I'd like to see it. Boca plays LB for Rennes.

[WMR]

BTW: Look for Spain to go after Bornstein very hard. Egypt didn't try to test him much at all. He's definitely the weakest link on that back line.

[M2]

What do you guys think of a

Bocanegra-DeMerit-Onyewu-Spector back line. I'd like to see that in a meaningful game.

It would be interesting to see. You'd certainly get a stout defensive effort. I doubt Boca would pose much of a threat going forward with the ball on his foot out on the wing, but that's a problem with every LB the U.S. plays. Unless the U.S. makes Jamaica the 51st state so we can get Ricardo Gardner in the mix, that's not changing any time soon.

I kind of wonder if the U.S. will look to capitalize on its CB depth and play DeMerit-Gooch-Boca in the center of a five-man back line. It would be negative football, but if the strength of your national team is on the back line then play negative.

[Hoosier Red]

Play everything hoping for a 0-0 tie?
Yikes.

[M2]

Play everything hoping for a 0-0 tie?
Yikes.

1-0, look for a smash-and-grab win off a corner.

It actually isn't a completely negative formation if you've got skilled wingbacks or a CB who can play a modified sweeper role. Everton played 5 across the back much of last season and managed to wring some offense out of it.

Mind you, the U.S. isn't oozing talent at wingback, but maybe we'd see some players step up their games if they knew they had better defensive cover behind them.

[WMR]

What I would give to see Torres versus Spain.

Alas, I fear that is beyond Robobob.

[Hoosier Red]

1-0, look for a smash-and-grab win off a corner.

It actually isn't a completely negative formation if you've got skilled wingbacks or a CB who can play a modified sweeper role. Everton played 5 across the back much of last season and managed to wring some offense out of it.

Mind you, the U.S. isn't oozing talent at wingback, but maybe we'd see some players step up their games if they knew they had better defensive cover behind them.

Dare I say would this be a position someone like Beasley could play well in?

Ducks the tomatoes.

[M2]

What I would give to see Torres versus Spain.

Alas, I fear that is beyond Robobob.

I'd be up for Bradley at DM and Torres at CAM. Feilhaber might be a good choice as well. The Spanish are liable to twist Clark into the turf. Tactically speaking, the U.S. is going to need to score on quick-hitting counters. So, who can do the most damage given limited chances?

[M2]

Dare I say would this be a position someone like Beasley could play well in?

Ducks the tomatoes.

I was thinking the same thing, but I wasn't as brave as you to type it for all to see. Of course, if he's going to play LB, he needs to go to a club that's going to give him regular runs there for a full season.

[Hoosier Red]

I hear Montreal would be interested? Or maybe the Cincinnati Riverhawks.

[WMR]

Beasley has got to prove that he can still play. He looks like he is finished.

[WMR]

I'd be up for Bradley at DM and Torres at CAM. Feilhaber might be a good choice as well. The Spanish are liable to twist Clark into the turf. Tactically speaking, the U.S. is going to need to score on quick-hitting counters. So, who can do the most damage given limited chances?

I've resigned myself to the reality that BB will be the coach through WC2010. I just really hope that the USSF is smart enough to pursue a high level foreign coach immediately after our participation in South Africa ends, whenever that may be.

Hiddink would seem to be the landslide choice. At least in my opinion.

[Caveat Emperor]

I've resigned myself to the reality that BB will be the coach through WC2010. I just really hope that the USSF is smart enough to pursue a high level foreign coach immediately after our participation in South Africa ends, whenever that may be.

Hiddink would seem to be the landslide choice. At least in my opinion.

Really, though -- how much of the NT squad's troubles are at the feet of Bradley, and how much are at the feet of the guys on the pitch?

Watching the men's team play, they aren't embarassing themselves in international play the way they did back in the day, but they still don't play with the crispness of Euro teams. It's painfully apparent on ball movement and ball placement on passes that the talent gap still exists.

I labor under no delusions that Bradley is a great coach, but the next guy in is still going to have the same talent gap problem.

[M2]

Really, though -- how much of the NT squad's troubles are at the feet of Bradley, and how much are at the feet of the guys on the pitch?

Watching the men's team play, they aren't embarassing themselves in international play the way they did back in the day, but they still don't play with the crispness of Euro teams. It's painfully apparent on ball movement and ball placement on passes that the talent gap still exists.

I labor under no delusions that Bradley is a great coach, but the next guy in is still going to have the same talent gap problem.

True, though different tactics and player choices could erase some of that seeming talent gap. Also, I think a manager with a foreign pedigree would help establish higher expectations for U.S. players.

Donovan can be wayward with his final touch and Dempsey can engage in silly dribbling because, honestly, who's going to take their places? A manager who can put the fear of God into them and let it be known the best in the U.S. are in no way safe in the jobs would do a world of good. I don't care so much about in-game strategy, but somebody needs to crack the whip.

[improbus]

True, though different tactics and player choices could erase some of that seeming talent gap. Also, I think a manager with a foreign pedigree would help establish higher expectations for U.S. players.

Donovan can be wayward with his final touch and Dempsey can engage in silly dribbling because, honestly, who's going to take their places? A manager who can put the fear of God into them and let it be known the best in the U.S. are in no way safe in the jobs would do a world of good. I don't care so much about in-game strategy, but somebody needs to crack the whip.
You are right, but are there any reasonable replacements for them if they sit?

[NJReds]

Pretty underwhelming group. The Italians should go with youth, instead. With this weak Italian squad and a US squad with only one world class player - Dempsey - its looking like a pretty bland Cup.

Betterread ... you were right about Italy, they were underwhelming.

Although some of the young players (Montolivo, Chiellini) where bad and some of the older players (Doni, Dossena, Iaquinta) looked out of it as well. The only ones that played consistently well, IMO, were Pepe, Rossi, Zambrotta, Buffon.

Some of their younger, more dynamic players: Balotelli, Aquafresca, Criscito, Giovinco were not available as they are taking part in the UEFA U21 championship.

[Betterread]

Betterread ... you were right about Italy, they were underwhelming.

Although some of the young players (Montolivo, Chiellini) where bad and some of the older players (Doni, Dossena, Iaquinta) looked out of it as well. The only ones that played consistently well, IMO, were Pepe, Rossi, Zambrotta, Buffon.

Some of their younger, more dynamic players: Balotelli, Aquafresca, Criscito, Giovinco were not available as they are taking part in the UEFA U21 championship.
Italy did not deserve to advance. And this would have been the ideal opportunity to give some young players a chance to show what they can do. Maybe this will create a debate to change the squad's composition.
This is a great opportunity for the US to see 3 top squads and (hopefully) use it to learn some organization at the back and in midfield. They won against Egypt because they gave Donovan the ball in space to run at people. For some reason, Egypt was totally mystified by that strategy and were on the back foot all game. Bradley played an equally critical role in establishing the midfield rhythm. Dempsey scored the most important goal of the year for the US team - clutch.
And another thing in this tournament: Kaka is not making a mark on the game. I love his game but he has been slipping in form recently. I want to see something from him at Madrid. This year he was not the best player in Italy. Zlatan outclassed him.

[improbus]

Italy did not deserve to advance. And this would have been the ideal opportunity to give some young players a chance to show what they can do. Maybe this will create a debate to change the squad's composition.

The Italians almost always go with vets over young guys. Look at their big clubs. AC Milan, old guys. Juventus, old guys. Inter, old guys.

[Hoosier Red]

Soccer by Ives wants to know if we've been too hard on Clint Dempsey.

http://www.soccerbyives.net/soccer_by_ives/2009/06/have-we-been-too-hard-on-dempsey.html

[M2]

Soccer by Ives wants to know if we've been too hard on Clint Dempsey.

http://www.soccerbyives.net/soccer_by_ives/2009/06/have-we-been-too-hard-on-dempsey.html

I thought Harkes' game comments about Dempsey have been half-past brain dead. Dempsey has been involved in the attacking third of the field quite a bit during the past three games, statistically speaking he's the most accurate passer on the team, and it looks like the Castrol Index is awarding him for thse things. He also wins a lot of headers and I'll bet that tallies up the points too.

[WMR]

Wow, I thought he was going to emerge from Egypt as a bit of the goat until his spectacular finish.

He surrendered possession of the ball in that Egypt game several times. He played poorly until the goal.

But momentary flashes of brilliance from Dempsey have never been lacking... consistency sometimes has.

[Yachtzee]

Italy did not deserve to advance. And this would have been the ideal opportunity to give some young players a chance to show what they can do. Maybe this will create a debate to change the squad's composition.
This is a great opportunity for the US to see 3 top squads and (hopefully) use it to learn some organization at the back and in midfield. They won against Egypt because they gave Donovan the ball in space to run at people. For some reason, Egypt was totally mystified by that strategy and were on the back foot all game. Bradley played an equally critical role in establishing the midfield rhythm. Dempsey scored the most important goal of the year for the US team - clutch.
And another thing in this tournament: Kaka is not making a mark on the game. I love his game but he has been slipping in form recently. I want to see something from him at Madrid. This year he was not the best player in Italy. Zlatan outclassed him.

I made a point to watch some Serie A games on FSC this season. Zlatan had some sweet goals. Any word on whether he's staying with Inter?

[improbus]

I made a point to watch some Serie A games on FSC this season. Zlatan had some sweet goals. Any word on whether he's staying with Inter?
I make it a point to avoid Serie A. There is no league in the world with more talent and less watchability.

[reds1869]

I make it a point to avoid Serie A. There is no league in the world with more talent and less watchability.

I love the technical prowess of Serie A and the fans' passion, but their matches are either barn-burners (Capital Derby, Milan Derby, Juve-Torino, etc.) or bore-fests...there is absolutely no in between.

[WMR]

Getting excited yet?

[Hoosier Red]

I am and if I could make a request, could everyone making comments on the thread preface the comments with the minute it takes place.

I'm tivoing the game and trying to replicate the cone of silence but also follow along the thread as the game goes on.

[M2]

Is there any truth to the rumor that U.S. players are being offered last rites before they take the field?

I kid, but if you had to construct a tactical nightmare for the U.S. it would be a squad that can link together a dozen passes like it was the simplest thing in the world.

[Caveat Emperor]

Is there any truth to the rumor that U.S. players are being offered last rites before they take the field?

No, but I hear they all did circle up, put their hands in the middle and said:

"1, 2, 3 LET'S KEEP IT CLOSE!"

[Yachtzee]

Vuvuzelas

[Yachtzee]

Wouldn't it be fun if the US entered to the theme song from "Team America, World Police."

[M2]

Wouldn't it be fun if the US entered to the theme song from "Team America, World Police."

Heck yeah!

[M2]

I've memorized all the words to the Spanish national anthem.

[Yachtzee]

My name is Iker Casillas. You killed my father. Prepare to die.

[Caveat Emperor]

Wouldn't it be fun if the US entered to the theme song from "Team America, World Police."

Either that, or Hulk Hogan's former theme song "I Am a Real American"

FIGHT FOR WHAT'S RIGHT!
FIGHT FOR YOUR LIFE!

[NJReds]

6' A couple of good through balls that forced Casillas out of the box. Good runs for Davies.

[M2]

Lando gets a yellow. Harkes said it shouldn't have been given. Had Dempsey done that, Harkes would have said it was a rash challenge and the U.S. needs better from him.

[NJReds]

7' What a highlight that would've been if Davies could have scored on that bicycle kick.

I like what I see from the US so far. They're flying to the ball.

[M2]

The U.S. is finding holes in the Spanish defense.

[NJReds]

Lando gets a yellow. Harkes said it shouldn't have been given. Had Dempsey done that, Harkes would have said it was a rash challenge and the U.S. needs better from him.

It was another late, sloppy challenge that the US has made so many times of late. Whether or not it was a yellow is debatable, but it was unnecessary.

[NJReds]

The U.S. is finding holes in the Spanish defense.

The holes are always there, but Spain usually attacks so much and so efficiently that teams don't have time to exploit them.

[M2]

11, wicked pass from Cesc, almost picks out Torres on the back post.

[NJReds]

I'd much rather Harkes be on the sideline in some sort of coaching capacity than in the booth. Where's Tommy Smyth?

[M2]

I'd much rather Harkes be on the sideline in some sort of coaching capacity than in the booth. Where's Tommy Smyth?

I'm hoping the GolTV deal ESPN just struck leads to Ray Hudson in games like this.

According to the match stats, Spain is doubling up the U.S. on number of passes. Spain's connecting 80% of the time. The U.S. is at 68%.

[M2]

21, Donovan had a man open on the right. Should have passed instead of shot.

[NJReds]

I'm hoping the GolTV deal ESPN just struck leads to Ray Hudson in games like this.

According to the match stats, Spain is doubling up the U.S. on number of passes. Spain's connecting 80% of the time. The U.S. is at 68%.

Not a surprise. They're a much more talented side. But the US is getting some opportunities.

The US needs to do a better job maintaining possession and being patient when they do have possession.

[M2]

26, Dempsey finds Altidore and Jozy makes a superior play for the goal.

[NJReds]

26, Dempsey finds Altidore and Jozy makes a superior play for the goal.

Great strength and control from Altidore. Nice patient buildup to that goal by the US.

[M2]

Spain had pitched six straight shutouts in international tournaments until that goal.

[M2]

32, Villa misses on a golden opportunity.

[M2]

33, Donovan's been playing out right a lot with Dempsey in the middle.

[NJReds]

33, Donovan's been playing out right a lot with Dempsey in the middle.

Landon would rather pass anyway. Not a bad thing to have him on the wing.

[NJReds]

Too bad Rossi went play in Italy. What a combo he'd make with Altidore.

[NJReds]

37, Dempsey plays defense for Spain on a free kick, and heads the ball out of bounds. Bocanegra was right behind him in perfect position to make it 2-0.

[M2]

37, the average U.S. player has already covered more than 200 extra meters compared to the average Spanish player. Rarely will you see more of a passing team play more of a running team.

[NJReds]

38, I think Donovan was onside and that would've been a 1-on-1 w/Casillas.

40, That should have been a yellow card on Villa's foul against Altidore.

[M2]

42, DeMerit saves a goal after two wicked passes from Spain.

[M2]

45, Torres tests Howard near post after a very nice long pass from Pique.

[guttle11]

Halftime. Gooch is the star of the game so far, although pretty much everyone has been really good.

Can we actually do this?!

[NJReds]

Halftime: The US holds a lead that could've been bigger. Overall they played very well, but they will tire out if they continue chasing the Spanish around the pitch.

Donovan nearly picked up a second yellow late in the 1st half. He has to be very careful in the second half.

[M2]

Halftime, Clark (88%) and Dempsey (83%) are the only U.S. players connecting their passes better than the average Spaniard. Gooch (41%) and Spector (42%) are inviting trouble if they don't start connecting better.

[M2]

48, Howard robs David Villa at the far post.

[M2]

Bocanegra's doing a real nice job on the left flank.

[M2]

Harkes calling the Spanish coach Bosque.

[M2]

54, DeMerit totally fouled Xavi in the box.

[Cedric]

54, DeMerit totally fouled Xavi in the box.

Bad penalty or DeMerit had to?

[M2]

Bad penalty or DeMerit had to?

It didn't get called. Had to do it or it was a sure goal.

[M2]

59, Spain is putting the U.S. defense under siege.

[NJReds]

Halftime, Clark (88%) and Dempsey (83%) are the only U.S. players connecting their passes better than the average Spaniard. Gooch (41%) and Spector (42%) are inviting trouble if they don't start connecting better.

Are they counting all of the times that Gooch clears the ball out of the box as passes?

[Caveat Emperor]

59, Spain is putting the U.S. defense under siege.

Sounds like the US is playing for the 0-1.

[NJReds]

It didn't get called. Had to do it or it was a sure goal.

Didn't think that contact was too bad. I think some guys go down at the slightest touch instead of fighting through contact.

[NJReds]

Sounds like the US is playing for the 0-1.

Spain is a great side and they are going for the goal more than the US is just defending.

61, Altidore and Puyol collide in the box. Shot goes wide.

[Caveat Emperor]

Didn't think that contact was too bad. I think some guys go down at the slightest touch instead of fighting through contact.

Playing for the foul is something I usually associate with the Mexicans and Italians.

[NJReds]

Howard appears so confident in net.

[M2]

Are they counting all of the times that Gooch clears the ball out of the box as passes?

Don't know how FIFA tabs the results. My guess is yes.

[NJReds]

Playing for the foul is something I usually associate with the Mexicans and Italians.

Have you ever watched any CONCACAF games? Honduras, Costa Rica?

Don't forget Brazil, Argentina and other South American teams.

I know most on this board pin it on the Italians, but it's universal. The US is quite bad a drawing fouls as many of them play with a (US) football mentality.

[M2]

Didn't think that contact was too bad. I think some guys go down at the slightest touch instead of fighting through contact.

That was more than a slight touch. DeMerit basically jumped on Xavi's back.

[NJReds]

64, All out attack by Spain. Howard being bombarded.

Time for Bradley to start thinking about subs.

[M2]

64, Davies makes a nice run, but Puyol picks his pocket and then Pique passes it upfield.

[M2]

Seriously, Pique is sublime the way he controls the ball and makes a smart pass out of the back.

[NJReds]

64, Davies makes a nice run, but Puyol picks his pocket and then Pique passes it upfield.

Should've passed to Donovan.


68, Feilhaber in for Davies.

[M2]

68, Cazorla in for Fabregas, who covered a sick amount of territory (almost 9,300 meters).

[Yachtzee]

73, Dempsey GOAL!

[M2]

73, Feilhaber made a sweet pass and Dempsey showed the kind of poise you get from playing in a top league for three seasons.

[guttle11]

OMG!

[NJReds]

I was just about to write that the US was getting more possession and then they scored the second.

Spain seems to be tiring. The US almost with an Ali-like 'rope-a-dope' experience in the second half. Taking all the punches Spain had to offer before countering.

[Yachtzee]

79, Howard stops a FK right at him

[NJReds]

79, Howard stops a FK right at him

A weak effort on the free kick for Spain.

[Yachtzee]

81, another save by Howard. I keep holding my breath every time Spain gets near the US goal.

[Yachtzee]

Lando Calrissian (Don't call me Landycakes) cuts out a pass and starts a counter.

[NJReds]

83, Altidore called offside. He wasn't.

[M2]

83, the average U.S. player has now covered 1,000 meters more than the average Spanish player.

[11larkin11]

84, Casey in for Altidore

[NJReds]

84, Casey in for Altidore. Great game.

[Buckeye33]

I don't watch soccer very often but this is damn fun to watch.

I scared the crap out of my wife when the second goal went in and I yelled very loudly.

[NJReds]

86, Casey called offside. He wasn't.

[Yachtzee]

86 straight red to Bradley WTF!

[Buckeye33]

How in the world is that a RED card?!!

[M2]

87, Bradley gets a red that really shouldn't have even been a yellow.

[NJReds]

87, Straight red for Michael Bradely. Horrible call. He got to the ball first and his spikes were down.

[M2]

I don't watch soccer very often but this is damn fun to watch.

I scared the crap out of my wife when the second goal went in and I yelled very loudly.

These two teams really make for an entertaining matchup. You couldn't find two more divergent styles.

[redhawkfish]

3 minutes of stoppage time!

[Yachtzee]

US doing their best catenaccio impersonation, but without all the diving and intentional fouling.

[M2]

The U.S. is playing Italian defense today.

[M2]

US doing their best catenaccio impersonation, but without all the diving and intentional fouling.

Beat me to it.

[Yachtzee]

Amazing. The US is just getting a foot in front of the ball.

[redhawkfish]

Woohoo!!!

[Yachtzee]

Do you believe in miracles!

[NJReds]

US doing their best catenaccio impersonation, but without all the diving and intentional fouling.

Well, Donovan did a good acting job getting the yellow on Pique.

[M2]

Biggest U.S. win ever?

The Mexico win in 2002 might still rank above it. But the U.S. has never beaten a team this good in a tournament.

[Yachtzee]

Why are the announcers so sedate. They act as though this is just another win. I think even any impartial announcer would be going nuts over this upset.

[reds1869]

AMAZING!!! That red card was a joke, but our defense was not.Spectacular team effort for the US today.

[M2]

Why are the announcers so sedate. They act as though this is just another win. I think even any impartial announcer would be going nuts over this upset.

Because they are possibly the worst announcing team ever assembled.

Alexei Lalas at least is showing some energy in the studio.

[NJReds]

Why are the announcers so sedate. They act as though this is just another win. I think even any impartial announcer would be going nuts over this upset.

Lalas looks very emotional right now.

[Yachtzee]

Because they are possibly the worst announcing team ever assembled.

As tired as I get of Tommy Smith and his "ole onion bag," I know he would be jumping out of his shirt calling this game. Man the US could use some announcer who could show some excitement. This is a HUGE WIN!

[NJReds]

Biggest U.S. win ever?

The Mexico win in 2002 might still rank above it. But the U.S. has never beaten a team this good in a tournament.

The win over Brazil in the Gold Cup Final and the win over Portugal "golden team" in the World Cup also need to be ranked up there.

[NJReds]

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090624/capt.e59f41a586f745a5be8cae1c98ad9af1.south_africa _spain_us_confed_cup_soccer_cfc185.jpg

http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20090624/i/r4288723660.jpg

[Playadlc]

http://apple2.org.za/gswv/a2zine/GS.WorldView/v2000/Oct/Graphics/USA.FLAG.JPEG

One of the best soccer games we'll ever see from the US and it would be even greater if they could finish it off with a win against Brazil.

[Fil3232]

Without having ground covered to look at, I must say Landon Donovan's work rate is unreal. He seemed to be everywhere.

Also, Feilhaber's composure and vision is such a welcome sight for the national team. I assume he'll go the full 90 in place of Bradley in the final?

What a win! After how down I was after the first two games, it's amazing to think this team will be in the final.

[WMR]

Awesome victory. You can certainly tell we got the same ref from the Italy match in the WC. At least he let us wrap up the victory before giving us the crap card this time.

What an amazing win

Jozy Altidore is going to be a special, special striker. The way he shielded the ball with his body to set up the shot was just class.

[M2]

Without having ground covered to look at, I must say Landon Donovan's work rate is unreal. He seemed to be everywhere.

Also, Feilhaber's composure and vision is such a welcome sight for the national team. I assume he'll go the full 90 in place of Bradley in the final?

What a win! After how down I was after the first two games, it's amazing to think this team will be in the final.

FIFA has all the match stats (http://www.fifa.com/live/competitions/confederationscup/matchday=7/day=1/match=66213/index.html).

Donovan did indeed cover the most ground of anyone in the game at 11,993 meters (that's almost 7.5 miles). Clark, Dempsey and Bradley were all over 11,000 as well.

[Fil3232]

Thanks for the stats, M2.

What does everyone think of the backline with DeMerit and Bocanegra along with Gooch and Spector? I know its one game, but Bradley may have found something. I love DeMerit's toughness.

[Yachtzee]

Jim Rome must have lost a bet. He said "US Soccer Rules" at the beginning of his show.

[Roy Tucker]

Holy cats, I just saw this score.

[M2]

What does everyone think of the backline with DeMerit and Bocanegra along with Gooch and Spector? I know its one game, but Bradley may have found something. I love DeMerit's toughness.

It certainly stood up well under extreme pressure.

The U.S. doesn't have a possession game so it needs stern defenders and a dynamite keeper. Bocanegra put some serious clamps on Torres whenever he tried to attack from the right.

[Yachtzee]

Brazil or South Africa your game is through, because now you have to answer to

AMERICA! HECK YEAH!

[Yachtzee]

SI photos

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/0906/soccer.us.spain/content.1.html

[Yachtzee]

Now a serious post. Does this win give the US the confidence and the battle testing to do well in next year's World Cup? I think we saw some incredible heart from a number of players whose heart had been questioned. In fact, other than completely laying an egg against Brazil, the US has played well this tournament, playing 10 men against Italy and putting up 3 goals on a quality Egyptian team to advance.

I wonder if we're going to start hearing transfer rumors about some of these guys.

[M2]

Now a serious post. Does this win give the US the confidence and the battle testing to do well in next year's World Cup? I think we saw some incredible heart from a number of players whose heart had been questioned. In fact, other than completely laying an egg against Brazil, the US has played well this tournament, playing 10 men against Italy and putting up 3 goals on a quality Egyptian team to advance.

I wonder if we're going to start hearing transfer rumors about some of these guys.

The U.S. is playing with a high energy level, but still doesn't have a lot of skill. The good news is the team is finding out what kind of effort it needs to maintain in order to stick with top teams. Yet it could get found wanting for run of play goals in a major tournament.

Ricardo Clark might have created a market for his services today. DeMerit deserves liberation from Watford. Jozy's doing a nice job of shaking off his Xerez nightmare. It wouldn't surprise me if he's in Villareal's 2009-10 plans.

[Yachtzee]

The U.S. is playing with a high energy level, but still doesn't have a lot of skill. The good news is the team is finding out what kind of effort it needs to maintain in order to stick with top teams. Yet it could get found wanting for run of play goals in a major tournament.

What I noticed is that Spain seemed intent on trying to pass the US to death, but our guys had great conditioning and were able to keep running. Of course scoring two goals and being able to hole up in their own penalty box didn't hurt.

It will take a while longer before the US can match up with top national squads on a technical level, but we at least know they can run with the best of them of a physical level.

[Hoosier Red]

At its best the US reminds me of the old Bob Huggins UC basketball games. Physical and tough defensively, and able to score on a "fast break" but tough to watch when they have to play a normal set on offense.

I like the back line with Bocanegra at left back becasue in addition to everything else, when the US is protecting a lead they can make a nice substitution like Bornstein for Dempsey and play a 5 man back line. I was surprised Bradley didn't go to that earlier when Spain was peppering the goal at about the 75 minute mark.

Altidore and Dempsey both are great at finding opportunities.

If the US wins their group now, do they have a chance at being a #8 seed?

[M2]

What I noticed is that Spain seemed intent on trying to pass the US to death, but our guys had great conditioning and were able to keep running.

Spain needed to draw out the U.S. a bit more. It controlled the ball so much that it allowed the U.S. to pack the box and Spain struggled to get a clear shot.

Yet Spain is nothing if not stubborn and sometimes it can be too methodical.

[WMR]

I'm pretty sure the US has pretty much zero shot of getting a seed for this WC. This performance will certainly factor into our seeding for 2014, however. If we were able to advance out of our group next summer and follow that up with our usual dominance of CONCACAF along with some other nice results along the way to 2014 then we could find ourselves seeded next go-around.