In honor of Onyewu scoring the last goal in stoppage and to answer any questions about why he would want to play in Belgium, here's a picture of Gooch and long time girlfriend.
Showing posts with label USMNT. Show all posts
Showing posts with label USMNT. Show all posts
Saturday, October 11, 2008
USA CLINCHES PLACE IN THE HEXAGONAL
With a 6-1 rout of Cuba tonight the Americans (4-0) already have secured a berth in next year's six-nation finals of the North and Central American and Caribbean region. The top three will qualify for the World Cup in 2010.
In honor of Onyewu scoring the last goal in stoppage and to answer any questions about why he would want to play in Belgium, here's a picture of Gooch and long time girlfriend.
In honor of Onyewu scoring the last goal in stoppage and to answer any questions about why he would want to play in Belgium, here's a picture of Gooch and long time girlfriend.
Monday, September 1, 2008
LABOR DAY TRIBUTE
A Lesson in hardwork, humility and respect.
It's only appropriate on a holiday designed to give "the working citizen a day off", to recognize two of the hardest workers in MLS. So here's a tip of the hat to Brian McBride and Ben Olsen.
According to Fulham's manager,"Brian McBride has been a fine ambassador for Fulham Football Club. As my captain last season Brian was truly respected in the dressing room and led by example on the pitch. His attitude is second to none - Brian is a true pro in every sense of the word."
McBride is known for his work ethic and his willingness to do anything for the shirt, making him a fan favorite wherever he has played. In a sport being ruined by diving and play acting McBride has been called a true hard b***ard centre-forward. When viciously elbowed by De Rossi in the USA v Italy game during the World Cup, he didn’t flinch, even as they stitched him up so he could continue to play. We need more men in the game who can take a shot without whining about it. McBride looks like the sort of tough-assed Irishman that gave the NYPD such a fearsome reputation in the 30s. Thick-necked and made of granite, McBride is as hard they come prompting Chicago's supporter section to chant:
He’s big!
He’s red!
He’s got plates in his head!
Brian McBride!
Brian McBride!
Here's what Mick Delaney, a Fulham fan had to say about him:
"I have supported Fulham for 39 years now and Brian is close to if not is my all time favourite player. Why? He not the most skillful player we have had over those years. He not the longest serving player, and although he has a good goal scoring it's not great. What does it for me is that everytime he pulled on the shirt he gave the full 100% which is all a fan can ask for of a player. In addition, despite easily being able to, he never had an ego. An example of this was the post match interview for the Birmingham game when the interviewer, stating how important the first goal was and that "you" (Brian McBride) scored it his response was that "yes, WE (the team) scored it". Perhaps the biggest compliment I can pay him is that I use him as a role model for my two teenage boys. Work hard, give what ever you are doing 100% effort, work for the team and let others praise you rather than doing it yourself and accept any praise gracefully but don't forget the people who help you achieve. We will miss Brian and replacing him is without doubt Hodgsons biggest job, both in terms of his captaincy and the role of a target man / goal scorer. When he first joined there were some who doubted his capacity to influence our club and team. Now he has left there isn't a single voice which isn't praising his worth and contribution. Brian, God bless you and your family."
Cut from the same mold is DC United's Ben Olsen. Not the most talented on the team but the most missed when he's out. The heart of DC United. So Barra Brava decided to do a little tribute to Benny (video below). Olsen's response in the video ("I just love to play soccer") wasn't surprising to those that know him. Ed Morgans response to that(Weekend Update) is so similar to that of the Fulham fan it's scary.
It all comes down to loving the ego-less player, the one that will play for the name on the front of the shirt rather than the back. It shouldn't be so rare to find players that realize it's a privelege to play the game they love for a living, and are willing to bust their ass to continue to do it. Hopefully they are not a dying breed.
So here's to McBride and Olsen! Happy Labor Day!
It's only appropriate on a holiday designed to give "the working citizen a day off", to recognize two of the hardest workers in MLS. So here's a tip of the hat to Brian McBride and Ben Olsen.
According to Fulham's manager,"Brian McBride has been a fine ambassador for Fulham Football Club. As my captain last season Brian was truly respected in the dressing room and led by example on the pitch. His attitude is second to none - Brian is a true pro in every sense of the word."
McBride is known for his work ethic and his willingness to do anything for the shirt, making him a fan favorite wherever he has played. In a sport being ruined by diving and play acting McBride has been called a true hard b***ard centre-forward. When viciously elbowed by De Rossi in the USA v Italy game during the World Cup, he didn’t flinch, even as they stitched him up so he could continue to play. We need more men in the game who can take a shot without whining about it. McBride looks like the sort of tough-assed Irishman that gave the NYPD such a fearsome reputation in the 30s. Thick-necked and made of granite, McBride is as hard they come prompting Chicago's supporter section to chant:
He’s big!
He’s red!
He’s got plates in his head!
Brian McBride!
Brian McBride!
Here's what Mick Delaney, a Fulham fan had to say about him:
"I have supported Fulham for 39 years now and Brian is close to if not is my all time favourite player. Why? He not the most skillful player we have had over those years. He not the longest serving player, and although he has a good goal scoring it's not great. What does it for me is that everytime he pulled on the shirt he gave the full 100% which is all a fan can ask for of a player. In addition, despite easily being able to, he never had an ego. An example of this was the post match interview for the Birmingham game when the interviewer, stating how important the first goal was and that "you" (Brian McBride) scored it his response was that "yes, WE (the team) scored it". Perhaps the biggest compliment I can pay him is that I use him as a role model for my two teenage boys. Work hard, give what ever you are doing 100% effort, work for the team and let others praise you rather than doing it yourself and accept any praise gracefully but don't forget the people who help you achieve. We will miss Brian and replacing him is without doubt Hodgsons biggest job, both in terms of his captaincy and the role of a target man / goal scorer. When he first joined there were some who doubted his capacity to influence our club and team. Now he has left there isn't a single voice which isn't praising his worth and contribution. Brian, God bless you and your family."
Cut from the same mold is DC United's Ben Olsen. Not the most talented on the team but the most missed when he's out. The heart of DC United. So Barra Brava decided to do a little tribute to Benny (video below). Olsen's response in the video ("I just love to play soccer") wasn't surprising to those that know him. Ed Morgans response to that(Weekend Update) is so similar to that of the Fulham fan it's scary.
It all comes down to loving the ego-less player, the one that will play for the name on the front of the shirt rather than the back. It shouldn't be so rare to find players that realize it's a privelege to play the game they love for a living, and are willing to bust their ass to continue to do it. Hopefully they are not a dying breed.
So here's to McBride and Olsen! Happy Labor Day!
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Attractive Soccer - What is it? or England is an island
You see these words thrown around alot today, but what is it? Different things to different people, most would agree though that attractive soccer revolves around possession and creative play. To me personally it can be summed up simply by "playing to win", not, "playing not to lose." My personal version involves building from the back, possession, and a simple philosophy of everyone attacking when we have the ball, and everyone defending when we don't.
The question often asked is why can't the USMNT play this way. There is no short answer other than, slowly we are. Here is my attempt at the long answer:
You'll often see the argument that the American youth system stifles creativity, that the Americans rely on athleticism too much, they over coach and don't let kids play. Well the reality is that the crux of the problem, stems from a lack of coaching at the younger ages. You see to be creative requires great technical ability,you can't be one with the ball when all you are taught is to chase it and kick it with your toe by a well meaning parent/coach. This is slowly being addressed as clubs get bigger and better funded. It is after all a business and economics drive the youth system. Initially after the parent/coaches got the kids to the age where the clubs could charge for coaching, the coach had alot of players who were technically deficient hence the need to rely on size and speed. This was compounded by the influx of UK coaches. Parents unfamiliar with the game felt an English accent meant a high soccer IQ. This wouldn't have been particularly catastrophic until you look at the style of play in England. Last Spring, in an ESPN article, former World Cup winner Jorge Valdano blasted Jose Mourinho(Chelsea) and Rafael Benitez(Liverpool) for the style of soccer they perpetuate.
'Chelsea and Liverpool are the clearest, most exaggerated example of the way football is going: very intense, very collective, very tactical, very physical, and very direct.
'But, a short pass? No. A feint? No. A change of pace? No. A one-two? A nutmeg? A backheel? Don't be ridiculous. None of that. The extreme control and seriousness with which both teams played the semi-final neutralised any creative licence, any moments of exquisite skill.'
So let's recap. You've got parents unfamiliar with the game who could (at the time) really only watch the EPL on TV, hiring English coaches to coach technically deficient players. Garbage in garbage out.
Okay today that picture is changing drastically. From an economic standpoint Clubs became bigger and more lucrative and as the fight for the biggest and the fastest kids waged, someone came to the realization that if I can't win that battle I can produce the most technically gifted team. This is starting an entirely new look at the youth system level. (Just look at England's World Cup history to see who wins the physical, direct style versus the technical, possession style.) Combine this with the ability of satellite and internet to watch any league in the World and the influx of Latinos to America and literally, it's a whole new ball game.
Before too much longer The United Kingdom will be an island (pun intended) of 'direct football' This year I would much rather watch a Bundesliga game than an EPL game, much more 'attractive soccer'. If you saw any of the 2006 World Cup you know that this translated to the German National Team, so much so that the Argentinian press welcomed Germany to the 'game of soccer'. In the United States the MLS is playing 'attractive soccer', with the exception of New England, oh that's right an English coach. Jorge Valdano had his own theory on coaching styles. He said:
'...neither Mourinho nor Benitez made it as a player. That has made them channel all their vanity into coaching.
'Those who did not have the talent to make it as players do not believe in the talent of players, they do not believe in the ability to improvise in order to win football matches. In short, Benitez and Mourinho are exactly the kind of coaches that Benitez and Mourinho would have needed to have made it as players.'
That must be the difference in Steve Nichol and Steve Morrow.
The question often asked is why can't the USMNT play this way. There is no short answer other than, slowly we are. Here is my attempt at the long answer:
You'll often see the argument that the American youth system stifles creativity, that the Americans rely on athleticism too much, they over coach and don't let kids play. Well the reality is that the crux of the problem, stems from a lack of coaching at the younger ages. You see to be creative requires great technical ability,you can't be one with the ball when all you are taught is to chase it and kick it with your toe by a well meaning parent/coach. This is slowly being addressed as clubs get bigger and better funded. It is after all a business and economics drive the youth system. Initially after the parent/coaches got the kids to the age where the clubs could charge for coaching, the coach had alot of players who were technically deficient hence the need to rely on size and speed. This was compounded by the influx of UK coaches. Parents unfamiliar with the game felt an English accent meant a high soccer IQ. This wouldn't have been particularly catastrophic until you look at the style of play in England. Last Spring, in an ESPN article, former World Cup winner Jorge Valdano blasted Jose Mourinho(Chelsea) and Rafael Benitez(Liverpool) for the style of soccer they perpetuate.
'Chelsea and Liverpool are the clearest, most exaggerated example of the way football is going: very intense, very collective, very tactical, very physical, and very direct.
'But, a short pass? No. A feint? No. A change of pace? No. A one-two? A nutmeg? A backheel? Don't be ridiculous. None of that. The extreme control and seriousness with which both teams played the semi-final neutralised any creative licence, any moments of exquisite skill.'
So let's recap. You've got parents unfamiliar with the game who could (at the time) really only watch the EPL on TV, hiring English coaches to coach technically deficient players. Garbage in garbage out.
Okay today that picture is changing drastically. From an economic standpoint Clubs became bigger and more lucrative and as the fight for the biggest and the fastest kids waged, someone came to the realization that if I can't win that battle I can produce the most technically gifted team. This is starting an entirely new look at the youth system level. (Just look at England's World Cup history to see who wins the physical, direct style versus the technical, possession style.) Combine this with the ability of satellite and internet to watch any league in the World and the influx of Latinos to America and literally, it's a whole new ball game.
Before too much longer The United Kingdom will be an island (pun intended) of 'direct football' This year I would much rather watch a Bundesliga game than an EPL game, much more 'attractive soccer'. If you saw any of the 2006 World Cup you know that this translated to the German National Team, so much so that the Argentinian press welcomed Germany to the 'game of soccer'. In the United States the MLS is playing 'attractive soccer', with the exception of New England, oh that's right an English coach. Jorge Valdano had his own theory on coaching styles. He said:
'...neither Mourinho nor Benitez made it as a player. That has made them channel all their vanity into coaching.
'Those who did not have the talent to make it as players do not believe in the talent of players, they do not believe in the ability to improvise in order to win football matches. In short, Benitez and Mourinho are exactly the kind of coaches that Benitez and Mourinho would have needed to have made it as players.'
That must be the difference in Steve Nichol and Steve Morrow.
Monday, September 10, 2007
DING! DONG! The Witch is dead!!
Who knew we could play attacking soccer?
Well alot of talk this morning about poor reffing, an unflattering scoreline and petitions to put an end to the "Josh Wolff Experiment" but no one seems to be talking about the real storyline. The Bruce Arena Era is dead! No more bunker and counter. We played a loaded Brasil team straight up engaging them all over the field and we outshot the World's number one team 11-9!
I don't think anyone would have been shocked if you said Saturday that Brasil was going to score four goals but you could be having a drink with Bill Gates if you would have bet everything that those goals would be:
- an own goal
- a corner kick
- a free kick
- a PK
Clint Dempsey said it well (I guess the EPL is helping his game off the field as well):
“What I take way from the game is that we were able to compete with one of the best teams in the world and we were in it for almost the whole game. That’s always a positive, and we stayed really organized as a team. Everyone was on the same page, and not a lot of teams have that. We were able to show that we are united as a team, and we can do something special in the future.”
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Roster versus Brasil announced
I thought we were supposed to be looking ahead to 2010 not back to 2004.
Davy Arnaud and Josh Wolff? Davy Arnaud?? The last I heard (which was Aug 30th in this article) Arnaud was playing a wide midfield position with Kansas City. That same article compares him to Wade Barrett and Ben olsen as that hard working player that never gets the credit he deserves. Okay, let's compare him to Ben Olsen. Arnaud has played 23 games, 2047 minutes, taken 63 shots and has 4 goals and 6 assists. Olsen has played 17 games, 1437 minutes, taken 23 shots and has 7 goals and 4 assists. Now I'm not advocating calling Ben Olsen up for a forward position on the USMNT, I'm just making the point that Arnaud's call up is based on his 2004 performance with Wolff, not on his current performance.
Hopefully I'll be proved wrong by that Princeton education and keen eye for talent. I'm afraid though, that it may be a case of that really intelligent guy with no common sense.
CAP JOZY!
U.S. ROSTER BY POSITION
Goalkeepers (2): Tim Howard (Everton FC), Chris Seitz (Real Salt Lake)
Defenders (7): Carlos Bocanegra (Fulham FC), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96), Jay DeMerit (Watford FC), Oguchi Onyewu (Standard de Liege), Heath Pearce (Hansa Rostock), Frank Simek (Sheffield Wednesday), Jonathan Spector (West Ham United)
Midfielders (6): DaMarcus Beasley (Glasgow Rangers), Michael Bradley (SC Heerenveen), Bobby Convey (Reading FC), Clint Dempsey (Fulham FC), Benny Feilhaber (Derby County), Pablo Mastroeni (Colorado Rapids)
Forwards (4): Davy Arnaud (Kansas City Wizards), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy), Eddie Johnson (Kansas City Wizards), Josh Wolff (1860 Munich)
Davy Arnaud and Josh Wolff? Davy Arnaud?? The last I heard (which was Aug 30th in this article) Arnaud was playing a wide midfield position with Kansas City. That same article compares him to Wade Barrett and Ben olsen as that hard working player that never gets the credit he deserves. Okay, let's compare him to Ben Olsen. Arnaud has played 23 games, 2047 minutes, taken 63 shots and has 4 goals and 6 assists. Olsen has played 17 games, 1437 minutes, taken 23 shots and has 7 goals and 4 assists. Now I'm not advocating calling Ben Olsen up for a forward position on the USMNT, I'm just making the point that Arnaud's call up is based on his 2004 performance with Wolff, not on his current performance.
Hopefully I'll be proved wrong by that Princeton education and keen eye for talent. I'm afraid though, that it may be a case of that really intelligent guy with no common sense.
CAP JOZY!
U.S. ROSTER BY POSITION
Goalkeepers (2): Tim Howard (Everton FC), Chris Seitz (Real Salt Lake)
Defenders (7): Carlos Bocanegra (Fulham FC), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96), Jay DeMerit (Watford FC), Oguchi Onyewu (Standard de Liege), Heath Pearce (Hansa Rostock), Frank Simek (Sheffield Wednesday), Jonathan Spector (West Ham United)
Midfielders (6): DaMarcus Beasley (Glasgow Rangers), Michael Bradley (SC Heerenveen), Bobby Convey (Reading FC), Clint Dempsey (Fulham FC), Benny Feilhaber (Derby County), Pablo Mastroeni (Colorado Rapids)
Forwards (4): Davy Arnaud (Kansas City Wizards), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy), Eddie Johnson (Kansas City Wizards), Josh Wolff (1860 Munich)
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
USMNT vs Sweden, 8/22, 2:30pmEST, FSC&Galavision
As much as I hate to, I have to give Donovan his due. All the hype about Beckham flying to England for the Germany game and flying back to face Chivas hasn't mentioned Donovan will be doing the same. I find that interesting given the fact that Donovan will go a full 90 and Beckham won't. According to ussoccer.com Donovan looks to take over the record books:
"The stat book is running out of room for the records set by the 25-year-old two-time U.S. Soccer Male Athlete of the Year as he continues to cement his place in the history books. Already the USA’s all-time leader in assists (26), his game-tying goal in the Gold Cup final against Mexico put him tied for first place for three separate records. In addition to tying Eric Wynalda for most goals ever (34) for the national team, he has equaled the mark for most goals in a single year (9) set by Wynalda in 1996, and most points in a year along (21), sharing the record with Cobi Jones. The USA’s all-time capwinner with 164 appearances, Jones recorded six goals and nine assists in 2000."
U.S. MNT Roster-By-Position
GOALKEEPERS (2): Marcus Hahnemann (Reading FC), Tim Howard (Everton FC)
DEFENDERS (6): Carlos Bocanegra (Fulham FC), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96), Jay DeMerit (Watford FC), Oguchi Onyewu (Standard de Liege), Jonathan Spector (West Ham United)
MIDFIELDERS (6): DaMarcus Beasley (Glasgow Rangers), Michael Bradley (SC Heerenveen), Bobby Convey (Reading FC), Clint Dempsey (Fulham FC), Benny Feilhaber (Derby County), Pablo Mastroeni (Colorado Rapids)
FORWARDS (5): Brian Ching (Houston Dynamo), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy), Charlie Davies (Hammarby IF), Kamani Hill (VfL Wolfsburg), Sal Zizzo (Hannover 96)
Sweden Roster vs. USA
GOALKEEPERS (2): Rami Shaaban (Fredrikstad FK)*, Johan Wiland (IF Elfsborg)
DEFENDERS (6): Matias Concha (VfL Bochum), Erik Edman (Stade Rennais FC)*, Petter Hansson (Stade Rennais FC)*, Daniel Majstorovic (FC Basel), Olof Mellberg (Aston Villa)*, Mikael Nilsson (Panathanaikos)*
MIDFIELDERS (9): Niclas Alexandersson (IFK Göteborg)*, Daniel Andersson (Malmö FF)*, Kennedy Bakircioglü (Ajax Amsterdam), Dusan Djuric (Halmstads BK), Samuel Holmén (IF Elfsborg), Kim Källström (Lyon)*, Tobias Linderoth (Galatasary)*, Fredrik Ljungberg (West Ham United)*, Christian Wilhelmsson (Bolton FC)*
FORWARDS (5): Marcus Allbäck (FC Copenhagen)*, Johan Elmander (Tolouse)*, Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Inter Milan)*, Rade Prica (Aalborg BK), Markus Rosenberg (Werder Bremen)*
Monday, August 13, 2007
Bob Bradley, please call Jozy up for Brasil (Altidore highlights)
I don't care how old he is, this kid plays like a man. We are desperate for a striker on the USMNT and if his second goal this weekend didn't say "Coach, I'm ready", I don't know what it will take.
Beside his great skill the kid seems to be a class act. Every interview I've seen with him, he always says the right things.
What I remember about Adu at this age was getting caught drinking and pouting about having to learn to play defense and wing. Adu's interview after leaving for Benfica said basically "I'm a middle of the park player and nobody in the U.S. was smart enough to let me play there."
On the other hand Altidore was forced to play wing a couple of weeks ago and when Allen Hopkins interviewed him his response was, " As a freshman I need to learn all of the positions.".
Here are some highlights:
This weekend's 2nd goal
Yes he can use his head
How did he do against Brasil's U20s?
And let's not forget his first MLS goal
Beside his great skill the kid seems to be a class act. Every interview I've seen with him, he always says the right things.
What I remember about Adu at this age was getting caught drinking and pouting about having to learn to play defense and wing. Adu's interview after leaving for Benfica said basically "I'm a middle of the park player and nobody in the U.S. was smart enough to let me play there."
On the other hand Altidore was forced to play wing a couple of weeks ago and when Allen Hopkins interviewed him his response was, " As a freshman I need to learn all of the positions.".
Here are some highlights:
This weekend's 2nd goal
Yes he can use his head
How did he do against Brasil's U20s?
And let's not forget his first MLS goal
The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
The latest 'news' is the cancellation of the USMNT upcoming match versus Mexico to be held at Azteca Stadium. The word is that this will be replaced by the USMNT playing Brasil in Chicago at Soldiers Field on September 9.
Hopefully this news will allow some National Team fans to cut back on their medication that was prescribed when Bradley's Copa America roster was published.
Amazing how things work out some time. Now we'll be able to see the U.S. play the Copa America Champions with a rested 'A' team.
Also let me go on record early that I want to see Altidore called up for this one!
THE BAD
Arguably the best team in the League, Houston Dynamo, drop two games this week. First losing to Real Salt Lake then to the Colorado Rapids.
"It's embarrassing losing to the two worst teams in the league," said striker Brian Ching."
THE UGLY
Damarcus beasley faced racist taunts during his first Champions League game with the Rangers. Fans of FK Zeta were were making monkey sounds targeted at Beasley and team-mate Jean-Claude Darcheville. Beasley said:
"That's not normal, not just for us, black players, that's not normal for all other normal people."
The American speedster responded in the best way possible by putting the game winner in the back of the net.
FIFA will investigate the incident.
ESPN article
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Goff says Mexico out, Brasil in Sept. 9th
According to Steve Goff at Soccer Insider the September ninth match between the USA and Mexico at Azteca has been cancelled and the USA will be playing Brasil on that date at Soldiers Field.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Vacation's Over
Vacation was fabulous, final score Sharks 2 - Humans 2. Two sharks caught while on the coast and two people attacked while I was there. The fishing was typical summer fare; a little bit of everything and alot of nothing. I only saw two games while away, the Argentina-Brasil match for the Copa America Cup and the MLS Allstar game. I'll comment a little on each of those later. It seems I took a great week to 'vacate' because there wasn't a lot of good news, the U20's were beaten by Austria, DC United might as well have lost giving up three goals in less than forty minutes to tie FC Dallas and the reserves lost the Open Cup game to USL2 team Harrisburg Islanders.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
U20s Advance to Quarter Finals with OT win
Michael Bradley got his foot on the end of one in the 107th minute to put the USA up 2-1. The USA held on to the lead to advance to the Quarter Final game against Austria. Once again the USA gutted a game out, and with a little luck, they were able to save the win. I don't think enough can be said about the importance of grinding one out. It is what separates the 'good' from the 'great' teams.
Uruguay was much better than Brasil at cutting out passing lanes and isolating the wingers. Freddy Adu ended up alone in the middle. The USA started bypassing the midfield and sending longball after longball over the top.
Rongren made no adjustments and we saw giveaway after giveaway.
The possesion at halftime saw the Americans with 52%, but Uruguay making much more use of their 48%.
The referee lost control of the game and early in the second half Jozy Altidore went out with an injury from a scissors tackle (no card).Rongren replaced him with Akpan which seemed to be of little help. Altidore is able to hold the ball and wait for midfielder's runs but Akpan just seemed lost. Zizzo appeared to be limping and in the 54th minute Rongren put Dax McCarty in for him. Around the 70th minute Uruguay scores off a rebound that Perk dropped. Dropped may be harsh but it was some very 'soft hands'.
The goal seemed to wake up the USA who started applying more pressure. Rongren decided to use his last sub to put in Ferrari for Beltran in the 81st minute. Two minutes later the Uruguay coach decided to go defensive and pulled his goal scorer Suarez. Almost immediately Uruguay began losing its shape as the USA began applying more pressure. Gustavo Ferrin (Uruguay's coach) could also see things starting to unravel, and was screaming up and down the sideline. In the 87th minute Danny Szetela
brought down a ball in the box and put in a cross for a crashing Akpan who was cut down from behind by Cardaccio who scored the own goal (how just). The US barely held onto the tie as Uruguay sent a header of the post in stopage time.
In extra time the Americans just got better and better, it appeared that the USA's fitness played a big role (it is hard to judge because Uruguay was throwing alot of elbows, stomping on feet, and making late tackles, which just really takes it out a player.). Finally in the 107th minute a Freddy Adu corner was slapped at by the Uruguay keeper and was forced back in by Wake Forest's Julian Valentin, and finished by Michael Bradley.
This was an ugly game, but I can't tell you how important this kind of win is. The USA was losing with four minutes left and came back not only to tie it, but win in overtime. They worked hard, got lucky, and gutted it out. To use a Ray Hudsonism they showed "testicular fortitude". I feel like this game drove a stake through the heart of the "USA underperformers" title.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Live stream for tonights U20 action
For those of you who are channel challenged and lack ESPNU or Galavision for tonight's game against Uruguay, the CBC will be showing it live here:
LINK TO CBC
7:30pm eastern
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
U20 match up with Uruguay
I think the biggest fear as a fan is that the USA will come out flat. After the big win against Brasil the hope is that this team does not underestimate Uruguay. Fans may remember the 2005 loss to Italy, another third place team, after beating Argentina. Well there are a few guys on this team that also remember that, here's what Danny Szetela about that:
“I think in 2005 we beat Argentina and a lot of guys thought with Italy being a third-place team it wouldn’t be real tough test. We learned our lesson then and now we have to concentrate on Uruguay and understand that they are a really good team
On what he told his teammates about 2005:
“I told them we need to keep our focus. We made some history by beating Brazil, but we have to put that game aside and turn our focus on the next game. I think that’s what happened last time. We took our focus off of Italy a bit, so I think it is very important to keep our mind on Uruguay.”
Freddy Adu and Nathan Sturgis have also talked to the team about the 2005 experience.
I also believe the fact that the Brasil game was five days ago will also help this team remain focused on the game at hand.
As is the custom, in International tournaments all yellow card counts have been reset to zero. Uruguay will be without their starting Gk who is serving a suspension for a red card issued in the last game.
Look for Uruguay to try to take the speed out of the USA game with some very physical play. While Uruguay is not expected to bunker, they will probably be playing counter attacks.
The big threat is striker Edinson Cavani of Italian team,Palermo. He's supported by Luis Suarez of FC Groningen. The best of the midfielders is attacking player Juan Surraco of Udinese. The way this team shut down Pato for Brasil, we should be able to contain him.
Here's the video of his goal in his first game in the Serie 'A':
LAST BUT NOT LEAST HERE IS HOMER SIMPSON'S ANALYSIS IN FIVE LANGUAGES:
“I think in 2005 we beat Argentina and a lot of guys thought with Italy being a third-place team it wouldn’t be real tough test. We learned our lesson then and now we have to concentrate on Uruguay and understand that they are a really good team
On what he told his teammates about 2005:
“I told them we need to keep our focus. We made some history by beating Brazil, but we have to put that game aside and turn our focus on the next game. I think that’s what happened last time. We took our focus off of Italy a bit, so I think it is very important to keep our mind on Uruguay.”
Freddy Adu and Nathan Sturgis have also talked to the team about the 2005 experience.
I also believe the fact that the Brasil game was five days ago will also help this team remain focused on the game at hand.
As is the custom, in International tournaments all yellow card counts have been reset to zero. Uruguay will be without their starting Gk who is serving a suspension for a red card issued in the last game.
Look for Uruguay to try to take the speed out of the USA game with some very physical play. While Uruguay is not expected to bunker, they will probably be playing counter attacks.
The big threat is striker Edinson Cavani of Italian team,Palermo. He's supported by Luis Suarez of FC Groningen. The best of the midfielders is attacking player Juan Surraco of Udinese. The way this team shut down Pato for Brasil, we should be able to contain him.
Here's the video of his goal in his first game in the Serie 'A':
LAST BUT NOT LEAST HERE IS HOMER SIMPSON'S ANALYSIS IN FIVE LANGUAGES:
U20 Round of 16 Decided
Sunday night the final two games were played to decide the teams moving on in the round of sixteen. Surprises included all four African countries advancing and the host country (Canada) washing out. Here are the match ups for the knock out rounds.
July 11th
Austria vs Gambia
USA vs Uruguay
Spain vs Brasil
Japan vs Czech Republic
July 12th
Chile vs Portugal
Zambia vs Nigeria
Argentina vs Poland
Mexico vs Congo
How cool would a USA, Mexico championship game?
Saturday, July 7, 2007
Giving Thanks
Following last night's defeat of Brasil by the U20s, I think some thanks are in order.
First I think we need to send a general thank you out to cable tv programming executives. It is not mere coincidence that the U20 play the way that they do and they are the first generation to benefit from better soccer tv coverage in the United States. I have told you guys this over and over, "how to you expect to excel when you don't know what it's supposed to look like?". Thanks to soccers increased popularity the U20s are the first group of youngsters coming up that had the ability to watch high level games at their finger tips. Do not underestimate the power of this seemingly insignificant fact.
Thank you Peter Nowak! You tried to make Freddy Adu a complete player, forcing him to play both sides of the ball. Last night you could witness the pay off. Altidore's first goal game from strong defensive work of Adu.
Last but not least we need to thank the ESPN suits that deemed it proper to replace the third showing of a hot dog eating contest with a soccer match. The fact that it was the most exciting game in US soccer in sometime hopefully rewards you for your decision. Please take the time to contact ESPN and let them know how happy you were their decision. A little positive reinforcement may help with future programmin decisions.
AS YOU GIVE THANKS ALSO DELIGHT IN THE KNOWLEDGE THAT FREDDY ADU AND JOSMER ALTIDORE ARE YOUNG ENOUGH TO PLAY IN THE NEXT U20 CHAMPIONSHIP!!
First I think we need to send a general thank you out to cable tv programming executives. It is not mere coincidence that the U20 play the way that they do and they are the first generation to benefit from better soccer tv coverage in the United States. I have told you guys this over and over, "how to you expect to excel when you don't know what it's supposed to look like?". Thanks to soccers increased popularity the U20s are the first group of youngsters coming up that had the ability to watch high level games at their finger tips. Do not underestimate the power of this seemingly insignificant fact.
Thank you Peter Nowak! You tried to make Freddy Adu a complete player, forcing him to play both sides of the ball. Last night you could witness the pay off. Altidore's first goal game from strong defensive work of Adu.
Last but not least we need to thank the ESPN suits that deemed it proper to replace the third showing of a hot dog eating contest with a soccer match. The fact that it was the most exciting game in US soccer in sometime hopefully rewards you for your decision. Please take the time to contact ESPN and let them know how happy you were their decision. A little positive reinforcement may help with future programmin decisions.
AS YOU GIVE THANKS ALSO DELIGHT IN THE KNOWLEDGE THAT FREDDY ADU AND JOSMER ALTIDORE ARE YOUNG ENOUGH TO PLAY IN THE NEXT U20 CHAMPIONSHIP!!
Friday, July 6, 2007
U20s Defeat Brasil 2-1
Jozy Altidore put two in the back of the net tonight giving the US a victory over Brasil and clinching first place in their group. Over the next few days you will hear alot about how great Altidore and Adu performed along with several other young players on the U20 team. I want you to check out Jeff Bull's blog and what he has to say about "Phenom"-onology. I want you guys to try to keep it all in perspective and take Jeff Bull's advice:
"So here's a new deal: let these kids play and let their achievements speak for their quality; let no one be "The Real Deal" till they prove it on the field and against grown-ups."
Here is my take on the game.
Freddy Adu's performance was outstanding. Yes he played well, had some sick moves, and great passes. What impressed me the most though,was Freddy wore the armband well. He played like a captain, directing teammates, playing tireless defense, getting into Brasil's head. When the team was beginning to fold, he picked them up almost single- handedly and kept the team attacking. A great job!!
The second most exciting numbers of the game (2-1 scoreline being first) was possesion, Brasil 51%, USA 49%. This team moved the ball well and with confidence. Yes there were errant passes but they're kids.
Chris Seitz could have been MOTM, ensuring that the USA will continue its reputation as producing great keepers. Kasey may want to pick up a few tips on distribution from him.
The first half our midfield dominated Brasil's (did I just write that) at times frustrating them to the point of playing long balls bypassing the mids.
I've already told you how I felt about Altidore, this game did nothing to change my opinion.
The most important thing was the fact that as a team these guys gutted out the win, which gives me great hope for the future of USMNT soccer.
The Tipping Point
In a move that I predict will be looked back on as the tipping point in mainstream acceptance of soccer, ESPN has decided to air tonight's U20 World Cup game (USA vs Brasil) on ESPN as well as ESPNU. ESPN in a bold move has decided to usurp the third showing of the World Championship hot dog eating contest. Stunned, Competitive Eating News has not yet responded to this unbelievable disrespect shown to the competitive eating sport.
If the USA wins this game they lock up the win for their group. Hopefully they can match the display they put on versus Poland. Make sure you tune in tonight at 7:30 to catch the action.
This just in, the hot dog eating contest has been moved to "THE OCHO" :
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!
It's The Fourth and thank goodness, as American Soccer fans we have something to celebrate.The U20 National team destroyed Poland yesterday, six to one, in the Youth World Championships. The US is now in first place in their group after tying South Korea in their first game. The team was exciting to watch and played some very attractive soccer. After the South Korea game, some pundits had written Freddy Adu off and were asking the hard questions about what went wrong with his development. I don't know if he was reading the press, or just knew that his hopes of playing overseas depended on a breakout performance, but Freddy Adu dominated the game and scored a hat trick to boot. To quote Mark Twain, "The reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated." The other thing that I think was exciting about this performance was the fact that Poland scored first in the first five minutes of the game. The US showed no loss of confidence or panic and just picked apart and dominated Poland for the balance of the game.
Here are the highlights:
Another reason to celebrate, DC United plays Kansas City today in a game that will decide sole possesion of first place. Even with United's roster loss to the Copa America thay bounced back nicely to beat the weather and Colorado four to one in last weekend's match up. The last four weeks has seen three DC players receive Player of the Week honors.
Week 10: Ben Olsen (D.C. United)
Week 11: Luciano Emilio (D.C. United)
Week 12: Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo)
Week 13: Nicholas Addlery (D.C. United)
Justin Moose should see another start today and we may see Greg Vanney, who came from Colorado in a trade, bring some experience to DC's back line.
Have fun today! Guys please be careful using or observing fireworks!
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Locker Room Fodder
If this quote from Argentina's coach isn't hanging in every USMNT's locker room between now and the World Cup, a coaching opportunity has been missed. Alfio Basile told the press, "It was only one match, and we only beat the United States."
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