Hat trick Jozy and USA wins in Bosnia

Photo credit: Fehim Demir/European Pressphoto Agency

 

On paper this was a tough match. Bosnia and Herzegovina are 13th ranked in the world and on their way to their first World Cup in 2014. They have players like Dzeko and Ibisevic and Pjanic from reputable teams in Europe and would be playing at home in Sarajevo. So yes, a win was far fetched.

Klinsmann employed another experimental squad by adding and starting recently-pledged German-American Anthony Brooks as a center back. The  Hertha Berlin defender had a dream debut in the Bundesliga with a goal scored in his first match. Also available was Aaron Johannsson from the Dutch Eridivisie's AZ Alkmaar and former teammate of Jozy Altidore. In fact, he was the replacement for the veteran US attacker in his club when Altidore moved to Sunderland.

Another point here is that both Dempsey and Donovan, the perennial American aces, were given the day off. No matter. After going down 0-2 in the first half due to careless mistakes by Johnson in the first goal and Evans in the second, coach Klinsmann changed tactics and moved from a 4-2-3-1 to a 4-4-2 with Eddie Johnson and Altidore as the twin attackers. Result: 4 unanswered goals.

Altidore has grown to own his space and place as the go-to goalscorer. He forces fouls, provides assists, holds the ball and, of course, plenty of goals. In fact, the former New York Red Bull player has scored in each of his last 5 games with the national outfit. And today was no cheap goal, no one moment of glory. It was a dominant striker and a deserved hat trick. Nifty switching for the first goal, a pitch perfect free kick for his second and a one-timer for the third. That's how you announce that you are in form and that other Premier League teams need to watch out. 

The other bright spot was Michael Bradley, who commanded his midfield once more with elegance and strength. His sublime pass to Altidore for Eddie Johnson's strike to score the first for the Americans exemplifies his attacking qualities. Fabian Johnson also had a good outing at left midfield, providing Altidore with a pass for his first of the evening. Honorable mentions go to Evans, Diskerud, Brooks, Johannsson, and Howard.

With the US riding on a 12-game unbeaten streak that has broken previous records three games ago, sights are set on the qualifiers in Costa Rica and versus Mexico in Columbus. The team will be different and the stakes much higher but it is clear that the Americans are once more at the top of Concacaf, with a Gold Cup for proof, no less. Hopefully this won't be a case of "peaking too soon." Such things are more difficult to predict in international soccer given the longer spans of time between matches. It's true, however, that a form like the current one at next year's World Cup could end up giving us something special.

Player ratings:

Howard..............6.5

Evans.................5.5

Cameron.............5.5

Brooks...............5.5

F. Johnson............6.5

Diskerud..............6

Bradley................7.5

Jones..................6.5

Bedoya...............5.5

E. Johnson............6

Altidore................9

Subs: Johannsson (6), Kljestan (5.5), Corona (5), Castillo (5.5), Wood (NR), Parkhurst (NR)

US Midfield lights it up vs Guatemala

Photo credit: mlssoccer.com

A 6-0 score for any team is a rarity and a great sign. That tonight's friendly match between the US Men's National team and their Guatemalan counterparts was played mostly by non-starters on the American side makes it all the more significant. Better still, Landon Donovan returned to Team USA, exploded and scored.

During the first half, the US came out "flat," as Andres Cantor put it on Twitter. Although it was a sublime pass by Torres for Gomez to score the opener late in the first half, the tandem of Torres and Beckermann just wasn't getting it done. Enter Stuart Holden and Mix Diskerud. More movement, better passes and, yes, 5 more goals.

Can we attribute all the goals to these two midfielders? Of the 5 scored during their time we have to give them 3, as Landon Donovan's was a PK. The third goal came out of a play by Holden that found Wondolowski in the right spot. The same was also the case for the fourth, where a give-and-go between Mix and Holden allowed for another vintage Donovan strike. LD is now up to 51 goals for the USA and not stopping any time soon. After Clarence Goodson's individual play and goal came the final stroke via Bedoya. And yes, the play was engineered by Holden and Diskerud.

What are we to make of this match? Stuart Holden is almost back. Donovan is here. Mix Diskerud is a new option. For some negatives are the spotty plays by Torres and a failure to impress by Corona. It's a shame about the latter because we know he's capable of much more when with Tijuana.

More dangerous international sides, such as Costa Rica, remain to be played. But even then it's not a true measuring stick since they are also fielding a less-than-optimal squad. It won't be until Holden and Mix are called for in meaningful matches such as qualifiers that we'll see their true potential and evolution, one stemming from recovery and one as a young option. Worth mentioning is also the play of Stoke City's Brek Shea. He was a constant threat on the left flank and it reminds us why Klinsmann is so fond of him. Playing like this you have to like his chances, especially if he plays more often for Stoke.

A big win tonight. Not against Brazil or Mexico, but against criticism, time and circumstance. Well done indeed.

Player ratings:

Rimando.........6

Goodson.........6.5

Onyewu.........5

Parkhurst........6

Beasley...........6.5

Donovan........7.5

Torres...........5

Corona..........4.5

Beckermann...4.5

Castillo..........5

Gomez..........7

Subs: Holden (8), Diskerud (7.5), Bedoya (6), Wondolowski (6), Shea (7.5), Bruin (NR)

 

Flashback performance: USA 4 - Germany 3

Photo credit: Getty Images

Today, as US Soccer turned 100 years old, we watched in awe and joy just how far the program has come in the last two decades and how good the men's team can be. The USA dominated FIFA #2 ranked Germany in a 4-3 match that could and should have been a 4-1 rout. It was a performance the likes we haven't seen since that magical game versus Spain in the Confederations Cup 2009.

It was a flashback today for the offense. Jozy and Dempsey. A goal for the often-criticized, unjustly categorized as lazy, Jozy Altidore. Altidore had never scored in the run of play for Klinsmann until today. For Dempsey, it was another landmark statement. The Tottenham Hotspur ace will not stop scoring--and looking good doing it--for team or country. Hopefully we will see Deuce suit up in the Champions League before his career starts to fade. For Jozy, there are suitors for his services from Germany to Italy.

The defense today was no flashback. Bob Bradley's defensive brain has long been gone in favor of better flank play and a higher line. The lack of experienced centerbacks like Bocanegra and Onyewu have also hurt the defense. Omar Gonzalez, Matt Besler and even Geoff Cameron are still a long way from being in the same position as the Onyewu-Boca tandem.

It was curious to see Geoff Cameron in the sidelines but this gave a chance to Evans, who did not disappoint. Beasley seems to own the left back option and Fabian Johnson provided good movement and passing as a winger. The middle of the pitch was well patrolled by Michael Bradley and Jermaine Jones. The two clicked today in their box-to-box plays and covered for each other well. When these two perform, the team is more secure and has more options.

The right side had great speed with Graham Zusi and this provided for Altidore's goal at the start of the match. This was the type of service required by him that had always been provided by Landon Donovan. Yes, today USA won without him and it's clear that they can do so from now on. There are options for right midfielder with Zusi, Johnson and Gomez. They may not be Donovan but the chemistry is there. Whether the Gold Cup enables Landon to return to the full national team remains to be seen.

What else did we like from today? Fast scoring, quality scoring. Altidore's volleys and Dempsey's long and mid distance shots are highlight-worthy strikes and shows us the growth of US Soccer. It wasn't a cheap goal, a penalty, an own goal. It was great plays, good positioning and the ability to own the field. A flashback, so to speak, to days when the USA could do no wrong and the world took us seriously in soccer.

Player ratings:

Howard............6

Evans...............6

Gonzalez..........5.5

Besler..............5

Beasley............6.5

Zusi.................6.5

Jones...............7

Bradley............6.5

F. Johnson............6

Dempsey.........8.5

Altidore...........8

Subs:  E. Johnson (6.5), Davis (5.5), Castillo (5), Boyd (4)

More learning pains: USA loses to Belgium in friendly

Photo credit: AP

The game started slow enough this evening in Cleveland, a town not known for soccer. A defensive mistake by Geoff Cameron and Omar Gonzalez allowed Mirallas to put a sublime touch on the ball to get it over Howard for the first of the game at just 6 minutes. It looked like a rout.

Team USA had a hard time for most of the first half hour with Belgium controlling most of the possession. Fellaini, Kompany, Lukaku, Dembele and Defour made it look simple and Klinsmann had to scramble for answers. Enter Geoff Cameron in the proverbial set piece and goal for the US. Sadly, Jozy Altidore was never able to establish himself in this match and he was subbed again at halftime, continuing his scoring drought that goes back to November 2011.

The first half ended better for the United States with good play out of Beasley and Jermaine Jones and Zusi and Dempsey waiting to pounce. The second half also started well with Brad Guzan in goal until Omar Gonzalez committed a terrible mistake in lightly touching the ball away while moving towards the USA. The Belgians pounced and Benteke was gifted a perfect ball that he just tapped in. From there, the Americans tried to pull back but the real Belgian team showed up. Great goals by Fellaini and another by Benteke in highlight-worthy moments.

Why are these learning pains? For one is the continuously evolving/revolving back line. Klinsmann went with Cameron at right back, where he plays for Stoke City, Beasley as left back and Goodson and Gonzalez in the middle. Goodson brings experience but he showed slow and disconnected. Indeed, everyone seemed disconnected from Omar Gonzalez, even Omar himself with Belgium's second goal. Cameron is clearly not meant for right back and that position should go to Chandler or Lichaj. Parkhurst has not been in action so he probably should not play at that position.

DaMarcus Beasley had another stellar match tonight. Maybe not so much because of his defense, although he held his own against a superior side. No, it was the dribbling around players like Vermaelen and Mirallas and unleashing his speed down the flank that allowed for plays that ultimately led to Dempsey's PK late in the match. It might be a good idea to have Fabian Johnson and Beasley control the left side for now. They can both play the wing and defend well. Ironically, it's the middle and the right that trouble Klinsmann. Not long ago we had countless talks about the problem at left back and how we were stacked elsewhere.

If the US is to build around Gonzalez as a fulcrum then Gonzalez will first need to clear his head and understand that he is the captain of the defense. Second would be moving Cameron to the middle where he excelled and won his place with the national team and earned his passport to Europe. This should be the start and perhaps we'll see something to that effect in the game versus Germany coming up this Sunday.

The rest of the team had a pretty muted match. Attacks came from Beasley and Jones with Dempsey and Altidore/Johnson/Boyd providing the final attempt. Clearly there was something or someone missing. One can make the case for both Michael Bradley and, yes, Landon Donovan.

Player ratings:

Howard................6

Cameron...............5

Gonzalez...............4

Goodson..............4.5

Beasley................6

Zusi.....................5

Davis...................5

Kljestan...............4.5

Jones...................6.5

Dempsey.............5.5

Altidore...............5

Subs: Guzan (5), Johnson (6), Boyd (5), Holden (5), Evans (N/A), Besler (N/A)

Bradley, a general, and USA ties in Russia

Photo credit: ESPN

There were several subplots in yesterday's international friendly between the USA and Russia in Krasnodar: Josh Gatt and Joe Gyau were new call-ups, Altidore was returning, an army of youngsters headlined the team, and Timmy Chandler had another chance. In the end, the most important part of Team USA was Michael Bradley and he was instrumental in earning the US a 2-2 tie versus the Russians.

Starting from the back, Tim Howard was superb and once more showed why he's one of the top 10 goalkeepers in the world. The score could easily have ended up 5 or 6 to 2 in favor of the Russians. Pure instinct in positioning and impeccable reflexes mixed with great communication saved Team USA time and time again, especially early in the second half in a scene reminiscent of the Americans' win at the Azteca. Without Timmy, this team would struggle.

The defense was supposed to be closer to the ultimate starting group: Chandler was back and ready to take up the right back spot, Johnson was healthy and the left back position is his, Cameron has continued his rise at center back and paired up well with Bocanegra. The aging Boca, however, saw his game end early with an injury. Clarence Goodson, the next best player, came in. Goodson didn't have a good night, however, including the penalty he was forced to concede. Johnson was exposed several times tonight and Chandler didn't show the flair displayed in earlier matches with the USA.

At midfield things were a bit different, and perhaps confused. Three defensive midfielders were trotted out by Klinsmann: Danny Williams, Jermaine Jones and Michael Bradley. At times, the three stumbled in figuring out who had which man and who was supposed to attack. Jones was very active in the attack, however, and led to important crosses. Williams had a less stellar night and a mistouch allowed Russia's opening goal.

The 4-3-3 formation had Herculez Gomez and Josh Gatt on the outside and Jozy Altidore as the center forward. Jozy did much better in this game than in recent qualifiers, a cause for him missing out on the final two games in the tournament. He still had some moments of absence and showed trepidation when controlling the ball, perhaps due to his recent form with the national team. 

The brightest new start today was surely newcomer Josh Gatt. A member of Norway's champions, Molde, Gatt has been showing excellent speed and talent in the Tippeligaen. This was enough for Klinsmann to call him up to qualifiers, although he was injured, and ultimately to this game. Gatt showed his speed, but more importantly, he showed that he has passion for the game and an understanding of his position on the pitch. 

As happens in many friendlies, substitutes tend to be difference-makers. Such was the case with Agudelo and Diskerud. Juan Agudelo's headed back pass to Michael Bradley allowed the Roma man to unleash a superb shot that defeated the Russian goalkeeper and tied the score at 1-1. Diskerud would go on to tie the game at 2-2 in stoppage time in similar fashion to Bradley's goal, with Terrence Boyd as the provider.

Michael Bradley controlled this match. When the score was down 0-1 he managed the midfield and stopped the Russian attack. When he needed to come forward, he did so, and it always turned into a dangerous situation. He scored the equalizer in a dramatic, world class manner, from outside the area. He also set up the second goal with a well-placed long ball to Terrence Boyd. As Alexi Lalas argued, it was his economy at positioning that set him apart. Dempsey may be the offensive key for the United States at the moment, but Bradley is undoubtedly the engine at midfield and a general on the field.

Player Ratings:

Howard.............9

Johnson.............6

Cameron...........6.5

Bocanegra..........N/A

Chandler..........5.5

J. Jones............6

D. Williams.......4.5

Bradley.............8

Gomez..............5

Altidore.............6

Gatt..................7

Subs: Diskerud (7), Agudelo (7), Edu (5.5), Kljestan (6), Boyd (6), Goodson (4)

American Breakthrough: Dempsey scores for Spurs

Photo credit: Action Images

Some dreams are worth dreaming. Some scores are bigger when the game ends. Some players are just special. That was US international Clint Dempsey today for his new team, Tottenham Hotspur. Dempsey scored the game-winner against Manchester United at the famed Old Trafford and re-wrote the role of Americans in premier club soccer.

Clint Dempsey's goal was special for several reasons. Besides the obvious significance of the rival, the very fact that the game was at Old Trafford and one that the Spurs had not won since 1989 elevates Dempsey's goal. Additionally, it brings Tottenham up to 5th place after a 3-game winning streak. It is a credit to Villas-Boas for acquiring the US international and starting him in important matches.

Dempsey has a knack for scoring important, if we may say, scavenger goals. He seems to always be at the right place at the right time and has the presence of mind to adjust the speed and strength of his shots in order to break the goal line. This is what has made him such a threat during his career. Dempsey took his time and remained focused during a transfer season that he saw as his last chance to play for a major team in Europe. An 11th hour move to Tottenham was what he deserved, and after starting 3 matches, he found the back of the net in style.

This is an American breakthrough because of who Clint Dempsey plays for, for his abilities on the pitch, and the path behind him. He elevates other Americans abroad playing for important teams like Michael Bradley (Roma) and Jozy Altidore (AZ Alkmaar) and sets up higher expectations for future United States talent. Dempsey has given us his share of important goals, from recent games in World Cup qualifying, to his goals for New England and Fulham, to unforgettable strikes versus Egypt and Spain at the Confederations Cup 2009, versus England at World Cup 2010, and the winner versus Italy on Italian soil earlier this year. He has added to his repertoire today by scoring for his latest, and most impressive club in the best soccer league in the world. Dempsey is pure American magic and we haven't seen all he can do yet.

No goals: USA ties Canada in friendly

Photo credit: The Canadian Press

It was a friendly affair tonight at Toronto's BMO Field as the US national team tied 0-0 versus Canada. Few opportunities from either side and no real forwards making plays. From an American perspective this is both troubling and perplexing. Against Scotland, Klinsmann launched an all-out attack with a 4-3-3 formation devoid of Dempsey but with highly effective results: 5-1. Against Brazil this formula also worked and yielded the lone goal in a 1-4 loss but could have gotten a couple more if it weren't for the Brazilian defense.

Tonight Klinsmann reverted to Bob Bradley's flat 4-4-2. A useful and sometimes powerful approach that can undermine the opposing squad's attack and can set up great play along the flanks to have 2 players in dangerous situations at all times. However, this only works if the flanks are mobile and overlapping. This did not happen with the US today.

In previous matches a 4-1-2-2-1 formation, with Maurice Edu as a sweeper-like defensive midfielder, allowed Jermaine Jones and Michael Bradley to overlap in and out of the attack and maintained 3 players forward: Torres/Dempsey, Donovan, Boyd/Gomez. Tonight Jones and Bradley were static and unable to provide dangerous passes or to create spaces for Gomez and Dempsey while Donovan and Torres were double-marked into silence.

It's always great to see changes in lineups and formations, but it's even better when one notices them on the pitch as the play is happening. This did not occur today until Klinsmann made the changes for Torres and Edu and reset the delta in the midfield. Although Brazil took advantage of 5 players going forward, the game was more enjoyable and gave the US the opportunity to do something special. It could also come down to the absence of a Fabian Johnson, a Danny Williams, a Timmy Chandler or even a Freddy Adu. 

Player ratings:

Howard.................6

Cherundolo.............5

Bocanegra...............4.5

Goodson.................5

Castillo....................4

Torres......................5.5

Donovan.................5

Dempsey..................6

Bradley....................6

Jones........................6.5

Gomez.....................6

Subs: Onyewu (5), Edu (6.5), Altidore (N/A), Parkhurst (N/A), Wondolowski (N/A)

Speed Bump: USA loses to Brazil

Photo credit: Washington Post

Juergen Klinsmann's impressive 5 game unbeaten streak with the US national team had to end at some point. Tonight it happened against one of the world's best teams: Brazil by 1-4. And it happened because of questionable refereeing and having to chase a 0-2 scoreboard against the always-dangerous Brazilian attack.

As the US coach would assert, there were plenty of positives in tonight's unfortunate romp at FedEx Field: great attacking from the flanks, good offensive posture, great goalkeeping, and having Dempsey and Donovan on the pitch. It was a good night for Herculez Gomez, sort of, since he scored on the 5-time world champions. It was the dating runs made by Fabian Johnson that provided the assist for the goal and that could have accounted for a second.

Dempsey still has some rust to shake off and perhaps he should not have been used in the match and perhaps should be rested until Guatemala, the most important match of the summer stretch. The offense clicked well with Torres and Donovan--when the US No. 10 wasn't being double marked--, as well as Bradley and Jones. Terrence Boyd nearly got his first international goal if it hadn't been for a sprawling Rafael.

The back line, sorely untested against Scotland, left many questions by the center two: Bocanegra and Onyewu. Indeed, Onyewu's positioning cost the team Brazil's fourth goal, while the second was an unfortunate handball. Bocanegra had a difficult time controlling the ball and building plays from the back. One wonders if the Confederations Cup Centerback duo will ever be a viable option again. There are plenty of capable centerbacks in the pipeline: Goodson, Ream, Parkhurst, Cameron. Perhaps Bocanegra may continue on for a couple of more years but Onyewu's stock at this level is swiftly falling. 

The wings had their own aging aches as Cherundolo was constantly forced to chase Neymar's shadows and his frustration translated into scuffles with Marcelo. The same can't be said about Fabian Johnson, who manned the often-troubled left back position with flair in attack and temperance in defense. At last, it seems, the left back position might have a winner.

Up next for the US is a familiar foe: Canada. The Americans defeated Canada 2-0 in last year's Confederations Cup in Detroit. This time the game will be played at Toronto's BMO Field. It is a fitting end to the "friendly" portion of the mini summer tournament dished out by Klinsmann: a Concacaf rival in an away game. This is the key to getting to the World Cup and our national team coach knows this road well.

Player ratings:

Howard...................6

Cherundolo..............5

Bocanegra................4

Onyewu...................3

F. Johnson................7.5

Edu..........................4.5

J. Jones....................6

Bradley....................7

Donovan..................5

Torres......................6.5

H. Gomez................7

Subs: Boyd (6), Dempsey (6), Parkhurst (N/A), Castillo (N/A), Beckermann (N/A)

Timmy Chandler Saga and Klinsmann's new crew

Photo credit: US Soccer

Many hardcore US National team fans know this dance: Timmy Chandler, German-born with an American father, eligible to play for the US, excellent outside defender and an option at midfield, plays friendlies with Team USA but does not follow through with actual FIFA competition matches. That was the story under Bob Bradley. Chandler was brought in, impressed, assumed a starting position but dropped out of the Gold Cup competition. Yesterday's announcement of the first 16 players selected by Klinsmann for upcoming friendlies and the first World Cup Qualifiers lacked one player: Timmy Chandler.

So yes, the saga continues. Is he holding back to be called by the German national team? Does he not plan to ever play for the US? Is he really that tired and deserving a break? Those were the explanations given by Klinsmann at the press conference where he announced the call-ups. The player has the last word. Klinsmann says the door will remain open but they will move on without him. Is that settled then? Was this saga worth it? Or are we making too much of this situation? Americans love drama, so we'll leave it at that.

Along with the usual suspects Dempsey, Bradley, Edu, Howard, some non-traditional inclusions include Alfredo Morales (Hertha Berlin), Edgar Castillo (Club Tijuana), and Joe Corona (Club Tijuana). Fabian Johnson and Danny Williams will be there, however, so at least part of the German connection is alive and well. As for Castillo's inclusion, it may be due to his increased playing time and performance for the Xolos. His natural left back position warrants further inspection to see his progress. The US has always lacked depth in this part of the field, and his addition along with Morales, Johnson and Williams can expand the possible scenarios.

The inclusion of Joe Corona is a welcome one, although Mixx Diskerud would have been an attractive option at midfield as well--and he may yet be called with the second round (as many as 13 additions). In any case, Corona is a different kind of midfield player, faster and stronger in the middle of the pitch and with a nose for goal. It is a good variant for the more stationary Jose Torres or more defensive players like Bradley, Beckermann and Edu.

Who would we want to see from the remaining 13? Eric Lichaj comes to mind, as does Brek Shea, Herculez Gomez, Tim Ream and maybe even Josh Gatt. Agudelo, Kenny Cooper and Wondolowski should be top targets as well. Terrence Boyd's imminent inclusion is a bit of a stretch since he's not actively a part of first team Borussia Dortmund, but Klinsmann might be seeing something interesting in this lad. Indeed, he was a bright spot in the U-23s ill-fated match versus El Salvador in Olympic qualifying.

It will be a stretch of 5 games: Scotland, Brazil and Canada as warm-ups for qualifiers against Antigua and Barbuda and Guatemala. Should be fun to see variations in lineups and tactics.

Dempsey and History: USA defeats Italy

Photo credit: ESPN

Genoa, Italy. February 29, 2012. A day in the history of the US Soccer National Team. A perfect game by the Americans that gave us their first ever win versus the Italians in 11 all-time meetings. No Donovan, no problem. Not when we have Dempsey.

So Clint did it again. A sublime pass by Altidore as the AZ attacker used his body to keep possession found a well-positioned Dempsey. The Fulham attacker dribbled slightly and released a low, well-placed shot to the right of Buffon. Goal.

Dempsey had a scintillating performance not just in the offense as he found the spaces and complemented Altidore, but also in the defensive end of play. The Furman University product stayed close to Pirlo for good stretches of the match and was effective in slowing down the talented Italian.

This national team had more than just Donovan missing. Also out were Onyewu, Torres and Timmy Chandler. But in stepped Fabian Johnson and Jonathan Spector at left back, Brek Shea on the left wing and Terrence Boyd as an option at forward. The left side struggled at times but was still able to deconstruct the Italian attack from the right flank.

This game was an affirmation that the Klinsmann system may indeed be working after all. That's 4 wins in a row and 3 away from home, two versus European sides with full squads and one away to a Concacaf foe. His positioning of Altidore with Dempsey right behind him emulates the way "Deuce" is utilized at Fulham. As forward/midfielder, Dempsey is the best option at that position.

The left back spot is up for grabs, as always, although Chandler/Spector/Johnson seem to have a good grip on it for now. Any one of those players can hold their own in that spot even if it isn't their natural position. Until a true left back option emerges, a defensive "committee," of sorts, will do.

The defensive midfield also performed quite well today. Maurice Edu and Michael Bradley were both excellent in their positioning and awareness. Bradley's experience with the Italian game (as a member of Chievo Verona) has made him grow in important strides as a soccer player. He had style today, no doubt about that.

Player ratings:
Howard..............7.5
Bocanegra...........7
Goodson..............6.5
Cherundolo..........7
F. Johnson..........6.5
D. Williams.........6.5
M. Bradley..........8.5
Edu......................7.5
Shea.....................6
Dempsey..............8
Altidore................7

Subs: Kljestan (6), Spector (7.5), Boyd (N/A), Buddle (N/A)

Model for the Qualifiers: USA defeats Panama in friendly

Photo credit: AP

Tonight's game between the US national team and its Panamanian equivalent was a perfect example of how to play in the World Cup Qualifiers. Start fast, play defensive and hold on to a favorable score and points. Tonight was also the third game won by the USA in a row, a first under Klinsmann and also abroad.

Graham Zusi scored his first goal in only his second cap, proving that the US has plenty of talent in MLS. It was an opportunistic strike in the 8th minute and one that kept Team USA ahead on the scoreboard throughout the game.

The offense was quite lively in the first half, with Wondolowski getting close to scoring the second for the US and an active and efficient Loyd-Shea partnership on the left wing. Bunbury was largely quiet but did have a couple of close shots. Jermaine Jones took several long range shots, one of which almost served to set a Wondolowski goal.

The defense was tested better than against Venezuela and if it hadn't been for Nick Rimando's heroics, then the scoreboard would have been 1-2 or 1-3 in favor of the "Canaleros." Parkhurst and Cameron looked particularly vulnerable through the middle and the latter was forced into making a tactical foul that resulted in his expulsion. And yet that is the mark of a good defender: to give up your space on the field to keep your team ahead. So, more of Geoff Cameron in the future might be intriguing.

The biggest lesson for this largely-novice group of players was the intense negative atmosphere of a Concacaf venue. If this had been a real qualifier, then three points abroad brings the team three steps closer to the World Cup. These are the kind of games needed to gain experience ahead of a new qualifying round and Klinsmann has been quite smart in setting up games abroad that widen the scope of US Soccer in a way that hasn't been done before. As the announcers said during the game, this was the first friendly against a Concacaf team outside of the US since the early 1990s. So, way to go Herr Coach. On to Italy with our "A" team.

Player ratings:
Rimando...............8
DeLaGarza............6
Parkhurst..............6
Cameron...............6.5
Loyd.....................5
Shea......................5.5
Clark.....................5.5
Jones.....................6.5
Zusi.......................7
Wondolowski........6.5
Bunbury................5

Subs: Johnson (6.5), Parke (6), Sapong (5), Evans (6), Larentowicz (6.5), Pearce (6.5)

Clark Returns: USA defeats Venezuela in friendly

Photo credit: USA Today

A forgettable match for non-die-hard fans. A moment of redemption for a USA original: Ricardo Clark. We may remember him from the World Cup 2010 round of 16 game between USA and Ghana. In that match, an early yellow card for Clark meant he had to be restrained in tackles later in the half. This allowed for Ghana's first goal, as he was out-muscled by Boateng. But today he scored a last-gasp goal in the 97th minute in his first match since that fateful day.

Clark wasn't the lone bright spot today. Geoff Cameron was especially impressive in defense. Feilhaber also enjoyed a good showing and expressed why he should still be in the conversation for the US midfield. Graham Zusi and Brek Shea had their moments, with the latter displaying sporadic instances of brilliance.

In the attack, Wondolowski showed why he may well be on his way to becoming a supersub. He may not be as fast as Agudelo or Altidore or be a possession player like Ching, but he has a good instinct in the penalty area. He was close on more than one occasion, and if it hadn't been for the Venezuelan goalkeeper, Wondo may have scored the game-winner. We didn't however, get a longer look at CJ Sapong. Bunbury did well but had extended periods in which he did not see the ball.

Not much else can be said about the defense or the defensive midfield. Jones did well in his outing as a captain and the yellow card let us know that yes, he's still being Jermaine Jones. Venezuela hardly tested Hamid so we didn't get to see why Klinsmann holds the DC goalkeeper with such high regard.

Player Ratings:

Hamid..................6
Parkhurst.............6
Cameron..............7
Pearce...................6
De la Garza..........6.5
Jones..................6.5
Shea....................7
Zusi.....................6.5
Larentowicz........6.5
Feilhaber............7
Bunbury..............6.5

Subs: Wondolowski (7.5), Sapong (6), Evans (6), Loyd (6), Clark (7.5)

4-4-2 works: US wins at Slovenia

Photo credit: Srdjan Zivulovic/Landov

Klinsmann finally tried his luck with a familiar formation: 4-4-2. Bob Bradley's choice throughout most of his 5-year career with the US Men's National Team, 4-4-2 gave the US team more attacking options and clear penetration of the opposing defense. But Klinsmann still maintained an attacking style and went with a diamond midfield instead of the flat 4-4-2 that Bradley had used so much. It payed off: Dempsey (attacking mid), Buddle (forward 1) and Altidore (forward 2) all scored.

Besides the stylish attacking play of the front three throughout the first half and part of the second half, was the addition of Fabian Johnson to the team. The Hoffenheim midfielder added spark and creativity to the US attack. He was involved in Buddle's opening goal and Altidore's penalty-winning play. Johnson constantly broke down the Slovenian defense and showed that he could also play centrally if needed (today he was a left winger). In the absence of Donovan or Dempsey, Johnson is looking like a go-to playmaker.

When Michael Bradley started as a right midfielder it was clear that Beckerman would be the sole holding midfielder ahead of the 4-man back line. This had some uninspiring moments. Cherundolo and Chandler looked off and Goodson had trouble with the Slovenian attacks. As a good friend of mine put it: "entertaining match but the defense was terrible." Indeed.

Klinsmann's modified 4-4-2 formation was inspiring to see, fun to watch, and payed strong dividends with an away win in Europe. It comes down to when this formation can be played and how Klinsmann should revert to a 4-5-1 or a two holding-mid center. Clearly, this has not been efficient with either stronger teams (France, Belgium) or weaker ones (Honduras, Costa Rica). The goals came out of a more versatile 4-4-2 formation. It comes down to who the starting forwards should be and which player is tasked as holding midfielder.

Other questions remain: Who will go out wide with Donovan and Dempsey? Would Johnson still figure into the lineup? Does Bradley shift to the defensive midfield role? What will the healthy back line look like? All good questions, especially considering options left out like Omar Gonzales and George John. And what happens when Stuart Holden is healthy and Bedoya and Freddy Adu find form?

Player ratings:
Howard...............6
Chandler.............5.5
Bocanegra...........6.5
Cherundolo..........5
Bradley.................7
Dempsey..............7.5
Johnson................7
Beckerman...........5.5
Altidore................7.5
Buddle..................7.5

Subs: Edu (6), Shea (5), Williams (N/A), Jones (N/A), Rogers (N/A)

Same Story: US loses to France

Photo credit: AFP

New stadium, new opponent, same story. Team USA lost a friendly today versus France at the Stade de France outside Paris by the score of 0-1. Sounds familiar? It should. After an encouraging start to he Klinsmann era in a 1-1 tie versus arch-rivals Mexico, The US went to lose 0-1 versus a limited Costa Rica at home, 0-1 in Belgium, and 0-1 in New York against Ecuador. There was a win against Honduras in Miami. A bright spot in a difficult start for the new coach.

The match was fairly even today in the first 45. The US back line held up well and was basically a rock until the start of the second half. Altidore and Dempsey proved to be real headaches for France although neither could get a clear shot on the French 'keeper.

The midfield was a different story. While Beckerman showed why he's worth having as a defensive midfielder, he hardly showed why he should start over Michael Bradley (a regular for Chievo in the Italian Serie A). Danny Williams was beaten several times and did not contribute as much going forward. Brek Shea also had a hard time creating plays and was relegated to the defensive end, forcing the team to retreat further.

The addition of Jermaine Jones offered some respite for the central midfield of Klinsmann's team, but his introduction came shortly before Howard's goal was penetrated by Remy. Enter Fabian Johnson: creativity, speed, but not enough to save the day. He and DaMarcus Beasley allowed for Dempsey and Altidore to exploit open spaces. Dempsey payed for this by getting constantly fouled by the French. Altidore's attempts never quite broke through.

So where does the national team stand after this latest setback? Same place, really. They were going up against one of the best teams in the world, even if there were some new faces in Blanc's squad. This was the Stade de France of Zidane and Henry. A 0-1 loss is acceptable. But what of the 1-4-1 record? Clearly one or even two of those should have been wins. At some point, the honeymoon stage with Klinsmann has to end and he will have to start producing on the field with real results. Altidore needs company. Perhaps with Donovan and Dempsey both on the pitch things might be better. But that is likely to not occur until February or March of next year.

Player ratings:
Howard.........................7.5
Chandler.......................6.5
Bocanegra....................7
Goodson.......................5.5
Cherundolo..................6
Shea..............................5.5
Dempsey......................8
Williams.......................5
Beckerman...............6.5
Edu..............................5.5
Altidore.......................7

Subs: Jonson (6), Jones (6.5), Beasley (5), Buddle (6)

Omar Gonzales and the Klinsmann snubs

Photo credit: US Soccer

The US national team will be playing against world-class France and up-and-coming Slovenia in Europe during next week's international dates. With much of MLS at a standstill due to the start of the post-season and the mandatory breaks for all clubs world wide, this could be a great occasion to shake things up a bit more with the national side. Klinsmann says yes and no.

Yes, says Klinsmann, because Fabian Johnson will have the chance to play for the USA and because Alfredo Morales (Hertha Berlin) gets his first shot. Klinsmann's German connection continues with Timmy Chandler, Daniel Williams and Jermaine Jones all on the roster and all with equal chances at playing in the friendlies.

Klinsmann also continues with his "Latin" connection. If you count Morales, that would be one. Out of his predilection for Mexican Primera folks only Michael Orozco Fiscal is left. Edgar Castillo has clearly seen his stock whither after less-than-average performances. Jose Francisco Torres saw his season end due to injury and will not return to the fold until 2012. Klinsmann asserts that he wants a possession-oriented, Latin-influenced squad. It sure seems more German-influenced to most fans and soccer media alike.

Klinsmann also prefers not to shake up the core of the national team. Okay, a good philosophy. But consider that Omar Gonzalez is the top domestic-based defender in the US pool and that a close second is George John. Neither has been invited by Klinsmann. Gonzalez had his shot with Bradley and it didn't pan out. Klinsmann chose struggling Ream over him several times already. A head-scratcher for sure. This is particularly interesting since George John is being courted by more than one English Premier League team.

One thing is abundantly clear. This is Klinsmann's team and no one will pick his men for him. No matter how much Gonzalez, John, and Herculez Gomez may yell, it still boils down to Klinsmann's plans. Never mind that Gomez (latin connection?) is literaly "tearing it up" in the Mexican league with multiple goals for Tecos this season. But we have yet to see the final product: the dominant possession-based team that gets results. Klinsmann is 1-3-1 so far and the fans are getting restless.

Late goals: Ecuador defeats USA in friendly

Photo credit: futbolecuador.com

It was hard to cheer for either team tonight. For some of us, one is the country of birth and the other the country you live and love. As I had told my peers, I'd rather have a high-scoring tie. It was almost a tie. Almost. The young blood in both teams decided the match tonight. Jaime Ayovi, the future of Ecuador, had the better of Tim Ream, the up-and-coming center back hopeful for the USA. It was another 0-1 loss for the Americans.

The match was certainly 60% American. They pressed in the first half with a dangerous Shea and Williams. Edu pushed up to be the box-to-box player that has seen him blossom in Scotland. And Onyewu, the longtime partner with Bocanegra is certainly back.

For Ecuador, the stars were Jaime Ayovi, Jefferson Montero and Michael Arroyo. They were dangerous throughout the night and could punish you with any open chance. Benitez was around to clean things up in the front line while Castillo and Mendez held steady in their center mid positions. Valencia had a bit of an off game today after a great performance in World Cup qualifying against Venezuela. He was substituted due to his ineffectiveness.

How does Klinsmann answer his critics after tonight's match? "Tim Ream." Yes. Switching the youngster for the experienced Bocanegra so late in the game changed the nature of the defense and his touch was as off as it has been for him with the Red Bulls this year and during the Gold Cup. Perhaps George John and/or Omar Gonzales are better options. If Klinsmann really want possession and passing from the back, however, Ream is still top choice. And this is something that will haunt Klinsmann throughout the next 3 years because--let's face it--Cherundolo and Bocanegra will be much older (35) at the 2014 World Cup. One veteran in the back line, possibly Onyewu, should be enough.

The American's other worry is the goal. Who's scoring? Looks like it's still the midfield and only by a tenuous thread. Dempsey got the game-winner versus Honduras over the weekend but there has been no production from Altidore, Agudelo and Buddle. Who can he call next? Is there anyone else? But we can also argue that Jozy did not have the full time to get something going with the increasingly-dangerous Shea-Williams tandem. Charlie Davies and Freddy Adu, you may get a phone call soon.

For Ecuador, their back line is holding up through communication and the presence of Walter Ayovi. It can be argued that the fact that they all play in the Ecuador league, and more importantly in Quito, may be what the team needs to keep the Atahualpa unbeaten in this World Cup cycle.

Player ratings for the USA:
Howard.............6
Cherundolo.......6
Onyewu............7.5
Bocanegra.........6
Chandler........... 6
Shea...................7
Williams............6
Dempsey...........7
Edu.....................6
Beckermann......6
Altidore...............6

Subs: Agudelo (5), Spector (4.5), Ream (3.5), Bradley (6), Buddle (4), Beasley (5.5)

No love for LA: USA falls to Costa Rica in friendly

Photo credit: Jake Roth / US Presswire

The United States Men's National team lost its first match under head coach Juergen Klinsmann in a friendly at the Los Angeles Area Home Depot Center. It was supposed to be a warm-up game for the much-anticipated friendly against Belgium on Tuesday. But through 30 minutes of scintillating 4-3-3 attacks and possession, no ball reached the back of the neck. Until Costa Rica scored.

Tonight's formation was a testament to Klinsmann's desire to play attractive, aggressive soccer. It may have payed off if Donovan, Altidore or Torres had scored. Rogers' empty runs and Shea's desire to play the ball up the middle prevented the wide attack that has made the US so dangerous in the past.

Credit (blame?) also goes to the back line. Castillo and Chandler had a great first half with constant forays to the front, leaving Bocanegra and Orozco Fiscal to deal with the counter. This worked while the US controlled the game. But after all the missed chances, Costa Rica built confidence and the back line was stretched and broken.

Orozco Fiscal was often in no-man's land and Bocanegra pushed the line further up to add to the attack. With Chandler and Castillo out of position, the Ticos were able to unleash lethal centers and through balls to open spaces. Maurice Edu had a largely quiet evening and this prompts us to ask if he's better alongside another center midfield.

The 4-3-3 formation left Donovan and Shea in retracted forward positions that also doubled as additional wingers. It played well with the industrious Torres and exploited the speed of Robbie Rogers early in the match. After the initial dominance of the team, Rogers became less efficient and Altidore was left alone.

Adding Kljestan to the mix came a bit too late in the game. His inclusion should have come at halftime for Rogers. Torres could have been sacrificed for Agudelo instead of Altidore so as to have two true forwards. Klinsi knows best, however, so benefit of the doubt for now.

So what is the diagnosis after tonight? Still a work in progress. Klinsmann is still learning about the players, their styles and imposing his own philosophy. His preference of Mexican-Americans on the pitch may have to take a hit if Orozco or Castillo fail to produce in the upcoming friendlies. With the addition of players like Dempsey, Bedoya, Bradley, Jones and Holden, the midfield could look quite different. Likewise for the defense. Waiting are Cherundolo, Ream, Spector, Lichaj, Loyd and, perhaps, George John. Up front we could still see Charlie Davies, Gatt or Adu. Maybe a 4-3-3 is only experimental and perhaps should be a change-up formation and not a starter.

Tuesday's match in Belgium is another special treat because there will be no Donovan. It's a great opportunity to test what a Donovan-less USA looks like. Having Bedoya in the mix would have been interesting but this game should be intriguing nonetheless.

Player ratings:

Howard....................6
Castillo.....................5.5
Orozco Fiscal..........4
Bocanegra................5
Chandler.................6
Shea.........................5.5
Torres......................7
Rogers.....................4
Edu...........................5.5
Donovan..................6
Altidore...................6

Subs: Kljestan (6), Agudelo (6.5)

Fabian Johnson and the German connection

Photo credit: Liga Insider

The last three years have seen a new breed of American soccer player in the US national men's team: German-born Americans. Chandler, Jones, Johnson are all obvious American (Anglo-Saxon) names. In this case we are talking about Timothy, Jermaine and Fabian. They happen to all play for the German Bundesliga (first division) in established teams: Nurmenberg (Chandler), Shalcke 04 (Jones) and Hoffenheim (Johnson). The latter has been invited to the upcoming international friendlies against Costa Rica (Sept. 2) and Belgium (Sept. 6).

This German connection comes full circle with the recently-appointed US coach Juergen Klinsmann. The players are the sons of servicemen that were, at some point, stationed in Germany, and whose mothers are German natives. Such is the case of Jones and Chandler and also the legendary Thomas Dooley. These players represented Germany in their youth squads but ultimately decided to play for the senior US team since they didn't suit up for the European team in an official tournament, per FIFA rules.

The recent inclusion of these players has payed high dividends for the Americans. Jermaine Jones (age 29) was able to use his considerable talent with Champions League background to muscle the United States into the Concacaf Gold Cup final. He has replaced Ricardo Clark and Maurice Edu in the central holding midfield role alongside Michael Bradley. Jones scored one goal for the US in the Gold Cup (later deemed an own goal by the Jamaican defender). His play has been limited recently due to an uncertain club future and he didn't have a good match in the friendly versus Mexico earlier this month.

Timothy Chandler has had a love/hate relationship, mainly with the fans, after having an impressive debut against Argentina in a friendly in March as well as a second game versus Paraguay. His speed and ball skills made him a fan-favorite to play backup to Steve Cherundolo or provide a change of pace as a winger. His absence during the Gold Cup (recovery after first season in Bundesliga) and the Mexico friendly (desire to play for a starting spot with Nurmberg) caused many fans to question his allegiance. Subsequent communication with him and his club coach confirmed that he still wanted to play for the USA and that he would suit up during the September friendlies.

Now comes Fabian Johnson, recently transferred from Wolfsburg to Hoffenheim and having an impressive start with his new squad. It was just days ago that www.soccerbyives.net first posted that Johnson was interested in representing the US. Now we will have a chance to watch him to see where he fits in the crowded midfield of the US national team. It should be noted, however, that he can double up as an outside back.

Klinsmann has chosen to continue his search for "latin" talent in the form of Mexican-Americans (Orozco Fiscal, Edgar Castillo, J.F. Torres) but he is also looking at this new resource to bolster a squad that had become quite stagnant under Bob Bradley. Do give credit to Bradley for calling up Jones and Chandler, we should acknowledge he started this German connection.

As we near the upcoming friendlies, there are two missing pieces not of German descent: George John (centerback, recently signed by Blackburn of the EPL) and breakout Mexican-American Joe Corona. Both have chances to play for other national teams: Greece and Mexico, respectively. But there is only limited room in the US squad and marquee friendlies call for the best the team has to offer. More international matches are coming in October and later this year. For now, at least, the German connection is up and running.

Klinsmann Begins: USA ties Mexico

Photo credit: AP

It was a friendly tonight between Mexico and the US national team. But a friendly only on paper. As a "Clasico," this game never lost luster even when the Americans looked out of sorts in the first half. Today was coach Klinsmann's first game with Team USA and his calls were questionable at first, with a highly experimental 4-2-3-1. But we knew that this was a learning process.

The first half of play saw a very timid, disconnected Edson Buddle, and a largely non-existent Landon Donovan. Jose Fransisco Torres was charged with being the secondary creative force alongside Beckermann. Torres had his ups and downs and this irregularity has plagued him throughout his stint as a national team player.

The back line was extremely experimental, with only Cherundolo and Bocanegra as the usual stalwarts. Orozco Fiscal was the second centerback and Edgar Castillo had his shot at left back. Castillo was burned continuously by Barrera but still held up play. This position is still up for grabs. Orozco did well to contain the Mexican attack but was still caught ball-watching at times.

When the changes were made for a largely quiet Jermaine Jones and Edson Buddle, the Americans sparked into life. Juan Agudelo provided style with his passes and Brek Shea had a breakthrough game. The FC Dallas man has reappointed himself as a bona fide contender at the midfield in the future. Robbie Roger's goal came largely out of a play created by Agudelo and Shea.

All in all it was a good match for the US today. It might even have been a win if it weren't for poor finishing and some questionable referee calls. Klinsmann has begun to impose his style and it will be interesting to see what he does when players like Dempsey, Chandler, Edu and Holden are available.

Player ratings:
Howard.......................6
Cherundolo................6
Bocanegra..................7
Orozco........................5
Castillo.......................4.5
Jones.........................4
Torres.......................5
Beckermann..............4.5
Bradley.....................5.5
Donovan....................6

Subs: Roggers (7), Agudelo (7), Shea (7.5), Clark (N/A)

Timmy Chandler: Friend or foe?

Photo credit: ISI photos

Much has been made of US national team player Timmy Chandler in the last few months. From his breakthrough games with the national side against Argentina and Paraguay, to his rise as a starter for Bundesliga side Nuremberg. But his relationship with US national team fans has been a bit rocky ever since those friendlies in March because of missed matches, tournaments, attention.

It started with the friendlies against the South American sides. Earlier this year we were introduced to the lad and watched him become a regular for his Bundesliga team. By mid-March, then-coach Bob Bradley selected him to represent the US in the exhibition matches. Fans had started to watch him closely in his games for Nuremberg and realized that he just might be the future of the right back position as Cherundolo is phased out.

Chandler was stellar against Argentina and provided a necessary spark out of the back and forced the team forward. Agudelo would eventually tie the match. Against Paraguay, Chandler was even more explosive and a bright spot in an otherwise flat game for the Americans.

Flash forward to the 2011 Gold Cup and many fans and soccer media were pinning Chandler as a starter if Cherundolo was hurt or even at midfield for mid-game changes in tactics. He also excelled at that position versus Paraguay. But then came word that Chandler was "exhausted" after his first full season with the Bundesliga team and that he needed some time off to recuperate. Really? Plenty of other players relish the possibility of being called up for the national team regardless of the length and demands of a full season. And this was an international tournament.

Was Nuremberg at fault for not releasing him? Bob Bradley wasn't strict enough to mandate his presence? Did Chandler want to represent Germany instead?

So on Friday, a day after he was called by Klinsmann to appear next week versus Mexico, Nuremberg and Chandler asked for him to remain in Germany and skip this match due to a "slight injury." But when he surfaced as a starter and had a great game for Nuremberg for the first game of the season, fans scratched their heads and were generally irate on twitter and other media. Some respected soccer journalists also posted the news that he was starting for Nuremberg but not willing to play for the US. "Hmmm," was the common denominator among journalists. Indeed.

Another snub by Chandler. Was he really not planning to suit up for Team USA ever again? Not necessarily. Washington Post's Soccer Insider posted an interesting article on the situation. It seems that Chandler is looking to secure his place as a starter during this month before he heads out to national team duties. His "slight injury" was a misnomer by US Soccer and Klinsmann had not talked with Chandler prior to his naming as a player in the 22-man roster for next week's friendly. According to the article, "Chandler and Hecking [his manager] committed to both U.S. friendlies next month: against Costa Rica Sept. 2 in Carson, Calif., and four days later against Belgium in Brussels."

So, I along with most US soccer fans out there will reserve judgement for now. Our team could certainly use Chandler's energy and skills as a new World Cup cycle approaches. He's a friend for now but people will certainly question his commitment further if he doesn't suit up for the national team within the next few matches.