Oh boy... Sunday was the worst game I've seen the US Men's National Team play since World Cup 2006. It wasn't the whole game that was bad, just the second half. I would even go as far to say that at the end of the first half, they had a chance to win. I'll go ahead and give my synopsis.
First half. Good counter attacking and defense. A few good chances on goal too. They looked like an international cup quality team. A few communication problems (3 players going for the ball at the same time?) but that's to be expected of such a young team, most of whom play against each other in the MLS. USA has been a second half team in the Gold Cup, so I'm getting excited. They're already attacking so well....
Second Half. Holy shit. officiating hit some rough points; a few missed calls here and there, but nothing like the bullshit penalty call, which also put Mexico up 1-0. It's nothing the US can't work out of though. They've done it before. a few minutes later 2-0. Defense obviously is dropping, and it seems as if everyone is pulling back. 3-0. USA is obviously not going to win, but they're still playing for pride and a goal would help. Captain Brian Ching, Houston Dynamo striker, gives the team a little pep talk in hopes to stop the bleeding. 4-0. Usually I stay and watch a game all the way through. I actually turned my TV off and went to another room. Check Twitter, 5-0 final score.
USA had all the advantages to fully dominate this tournament. Sadly, star players that were on the roster went back to Europe for training with their club teams. I understand its pre-season training, but come on. You dont play national team matches all that often. Your spot on the World Cup roster is still a possibility. Step up and play for your country and make an impression.
It was a good showing by the US until the final. However, its the second final they've been in this year and have no hardware to show for it. The US National Team has a World Cup 2010 Qualifier in Mexico City at Azteca Stadium on August 12th.
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