The United States came out strong with Freddy Adu seeing his shot blast off the post within the first minute. About thirty seconds later, he sent in a good ball that was poorly handled by Charlie Davies. These two solid offensive opportunities suggested a match in which the US would dominate. And they did, at least for the first fifteen or so minutes. At the fourteenth minute mark, Adu shot from around the top corner and saw his shot skim past Charlie Davies, the opposing keeper, and eventually netted itself in the bottom corner of the goal. The beautiful play and time of posession were great indicators, it looked like this was getting set to be a rout.
Unfortunately, after the Yanks went up, complacency and lethargic play took over. Rather than stick to their simple game, they started to play overly complicated balls and were focusing very heavily on the air. Slowly, the momentum changed, and just before the half the Cuban fans on hand had something to cheer about. Roberto Linares just eeked through the backline and slotted it home right in front of Chris Seitz. The half would end level.
The second half proved to be an improvement from the last half hour or so of the first, with the US coming out with a bit more fire. Jozy Altidore would move to the bench for Sacha Klejstan, a surprising move considering the shocking performance Charlie Davies had. There was nothing to note from either side, save the sending off of Cuba's goalscorer, Linares, after receiving a pretty weak yellow card.
This brings us to the next point, the referee. While he got some calls dead-on (Davies diving), he made some very poor, potentially game-changing decisions, including a handball early that would have given the US a great free kick opportunity and the Linares red card. Overall, it wasn't that bad of a game from the Guatemalan referee, but he did seem to favor Cuba in spots. I don't think it was as one-sided as we've seen some referees' performances, but it was certainly a frustrating game from the sidelines.
In closing, I hope that Nowak makes some changes A) in his preparation for the next game, B) his actual lineup against Panama, and C) make the proper call-ups (read my previous post) for the tournament itself...that is if we qualify.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Monday, March 10, 2008
US Olympic Qualifying Roster Announced
The United States Soccer Federation released the final roster for the Yank's Olympics qualifiers today. There weren't too many surprising decisions, other than Arturo Alvarez and Benny Feilhaber being dropped. I'd have to assume Feilhaber's lack of playing time, both with the Derby first team and reserves, ultimately led to being cut. Alvarez is a bit more of a shocker as he seemed to be one of the more talented players on the team, and is probably the best winger they've got. Look no further than his US Open Cup final stunner to see what I mean.
GOALKEEPERS
Dominic Cervi (unattached): I've never seen the kid play, so I can't really judge how good or bad of a decision this is. However, I am a bit curious as to why some players like Quentin Westberg, Brad Guzan (as an overage player), and Steve Cronin (again as an overage) were overlooked.
Chris Seitz (Real Salt Lake): A solid U-20 World Cup showing and his status as a bench player on Salt Lake made this an easy choice. It doesn't give any sour grapes between Salt Lake and Nowak's team, but gives a promising young keeper a shot at cementing his status as a future staple for the Nats.
DEFENDERS
Jonathan Spector (West Ham): This was probably one of the easiest selections for Nowak to make. Spector had not been called into training camp, and it was assumed he would get the call up. I wouldn't be surprised to see him captaining the squad. Though his international career isn't in jeopardy, a solid Olympic performance could warrant more playing time with the senior team.
Hunter Freeman (New York Red Bulls): Freeman was one of the few bright spots on a struggling New York defense last season. I don't think he'll have trouble adjusting to the international game, but I haven't seen how well he adapts to the higher pace that goes with donning the red, white and blue.
Kamani Hill (Vfl Wolfsburg): Many eyes will look towards how well Hill adapts to his defensive duties. Only recently has he converted from his natural forward position, but his height should give him a bit of a safety net. I'm pushing for the kid, but it's a pretty risky move.
Patrick Ianni (Houston Dynamo): Houston's defense was solid last year, amazing for the first half of the MLS season. Ianni should provide some strong defensive play and could be the "beast" in the back for the young US squad.
Michael Orozco (San Luis): As with Cervi, I know little to nothing about this player. Based on that fact alone, that I don't know who he is, I'm guessing he's an option off the bench.
Nathan Sturgis (Real Salt Lake): Sturgis had to deal with being a rookie on two atrocious squads last season. I think this will help provide the US squad with some determination. When the spirits are down, I expect Sturgis to give that extra bit of lift and confidence the squad might need. The only adversaties he'll have to overcome is beating out Spector and Wynne for the rightback slot.
Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC): Speedy and versatile, Wynne gives the backline the ability to change shape on the fly. His ability to play in practically every position gives him an almost definite spot in the starting XI.
MIDFIELDERS
Maurice Edu (Toronto FC): Though his international career is relatively young, he's been up and down for the US. His recent performances have been unimpressive to say the least, and this is a chance to adapt to the game much easier. Going from college, to MLS, to the US in one year is very hard to do successfully. This change in pace will certainly help him mature as a key player in the future.
Eddie Gaven (Columbus Crew): I wanna see the kid succeed, I really do, but he's been the "it" kid for how long now? If he doesn't play well here, his shot at making the US team is more or less done until after the 2010 World Cup.
Stuart Holden (Houston Dynamo): Of all the Dynamo's weapons, Holden is the one I feared the most in MLS Cup. People often underestimate his talent (though that's changing very fast) and he'll burn you if you do. He's not aggressive, but he definitely plays with a chip on his shoulder.
Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA): Easily my favorite young prospect for the US. His composure and creativity, as well as strong service make him one of the most deadly threats on the team. With the lack of wingers, I expect him to play almost the entire tournament, this is his "coming out" as a national team figure.
Dax McCarty (FC Dallas): This is a player I think has a good shot at cementing a spot in the future, but I don't know if he's ready quite yet. He had a solid season with Dallas, but I'm still unsure if he's all there. He's got a lot to prove to me, but as with Gaven, I'll be pushing for him to suceed.
Sal Zizzo (Hannover 96): Of all the players on the team, I'm most intrigued in how Zizzo plays. He had a good U-20 World Cup, and I want to see if he can take that success to a higher level. If so, welcome the US' newest prospect.
Freddy Adu (SL Benfica): It's Freddy, what else can I say? From what I've gathered, Benfica fans are pushing for more playing time, but the coach is holding him back (flashbacks of DC anyone?). I have no doubts in my mind he'll do well, and I hope he competes with Dos Santos as they did in the U-20 World Cup.
FORWARDS
Jozy Altidore (New York Red Bulls): Coming off his first senior goal, the kid's confidence will be soaring. I can't wait to see Adu and Jozy on the same pitch, they're key to our future.
Chad Barrett (Chicago Fire): Why? Barrett has had his fair share of chances and blown them all. He's the second coming of Taylor Twellman, I doubt he'll ever be a staple for the national team. Experiment failed, move on.
Charlie Davies (Hammarby IF): I was so bummed when he ditched the Revs for Sweden, so it's only natural I have high hopes for him. I'd expect he and Jozy to partner up top, but let's hope that Nowak doesn't pull an Arena and suit up Barrett.
Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake): Jozy, Adu and Findley as out attacking combo could be deadly. All three have pace that could burn every team in the competition. I don't think Findley should start, but he's definitely going to be a great option off the bench.
Overall, I think the squad is strong, but there are a few players I would have chosen over who's in the current team.
WHO MISSED THE CUT
Benny Feilhaber (Derby County): I think if he was at least playing for Derby's reserves he'd have a shot at the team, but I've got to assume a lack of match fitness and confidence led to him being cut from the final roster. I hope he gets out of Derby as soon as possible.
Neven Subotic (FSV Mainz 05): Praised as the best defender in Bundesliga 2 and rumored to be heading to England in the offseason, he's a given. However, his indecision of what national team to play for (Germany, Bosnia, Serbia or the USA) was probably the final catalyst in his decision. I heard rumors that he actually turned down the US call-up.
Adam Cristman (New England Revolution): Now I'm not saying who we called up top is bad, but I'd have taken Cristman over Barrett any day. Cristman was on a tear before he injured himself and lost fitness. His lack of play with the Revs in the pre-season seems to be playing a big part in this as well.
Michael Parkhurst (New Engand Revolution): He would have been taken as an overage player, someone who is over the 23 year old age limit, but Nowak didn't feel he was the right choice. He can't seem to get a call up anywhere, and the choice to convert Hill over calling up Parkhurst has got to be frustrating.
Danny Szetela (Brescia Calcio): He's not getting much playing time in Serie B, but he needs these kinds of games right now. It's not like we're playing a strong qualifying field, I'd say give the kid a shot.
Brad Guzan (Chivas USA): Again, he'd be an overage, but he's easily the best young keeper we've got. I don't understand why they wouldn't take this opportunity of more playing time and playing under large crowds, but I guess they're trying to develop the younger guys.
Michael Harrington (Kansas City Wizards): Harrington, Cristman and Edu were the best of the rookie class last season, so you'd have thought that they'd get a shot for the national team? Apparently Nowak disagrees, I'd have loved to see Harrington in this squad.
[EDIT] I've come to learn that overage players are not allowed in qualifying, but I would like to see the players mentioned in the final roster to Beijing (assuming we qualify).
GOALKEEPERS
Dominic Cervi (unattached): I've never seen the kid play, so I can't really judge how good or bad of a decision this is. However, I am a bit curious as to why some players like Quentin Westberg, Brad Guzan (as an overage player), and Steve Cronin (again as an overage) were overlooked.
Chris Seitz (Real Salt Lake): A solid U-20 World Cup showing and his status as a bench player on Salt Lake made this an easy choice. It doesn't give any sour grapes between Salt Lake and Nowak's team, but gives a promising young keeper a shot at cementing his status as a future staple for the Nats.
DEFENDERS
Jonathan Spector (West Ham): This was probably one of the easiest selections for Nowak to make. Spector had not been called into training camp, and it was assumed he would get the call up. I wouldn't be surprised to see him captaining the squad. Though his international career isn't in jeopardy, a solid Olympic performance could warrant more playing time with the senior team.
Hunter Freeman (New York Red Bulls): Freeman was one of the few bright spots on a struggling New York defense last season. I don't think he'll have trouble adjusting to the international game, but I haven't seen how well he adapts to the higher pace that goes with donning the red, white and blue.
Kamani Hill (Vfl Wolfsburg): Many eyes will look towards how well Hill adapts to his defensive duties. Only recently has he converted from his natural forward position, but his height should give him a bit of a safety net. I'm pushing for the kid, but it's a pretty risky move.
Patrick Ianni (Houston Dynamo): Houston's defense was solid last year, amazing for the first half of the MLS season. Ianni should provide some strong defensive play and could be the "beast" in the back for the young US squad.
Michael Orozco (San Luis): As with Cervi, I know little to nothing about this player. Based on that fact alone, that I don't know who he is, I'm guessing he's an option off the bench.
Nathan Sturgis (Real Salt Lake): Sturgis had to deal with being a rookie on two atrocious squads last season. I think this will help provide the US squad with some determination. When the spirits are down, I expect Sturgis to give that extra bit of lift and confidence the squad might need. The only adversaties he'll have to overcome is beating out Spector and Wynne for the rightback slot.
Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC): Speedy and versatile, Wynne gives the backline the ability to change shape on the fly. His ability to play in practically every position gives him an almost definite spot in the starting XI.
MIDFIELDERS
Maurice Edu (Toronto FC): Though his international career is relatively young, he's been up and down for the US. His recent performances have been unimpressive to say the least, and this is a chance to adapt to the game much easier. Going from college, to MLS, to the US in one year is very hard to do successfully. This change in pace will certainly help him mature as a key player in the future.
Eddie Gaven (Columbus Crew): I wanna see the kid succeed, I really do, but he's been the "it" kid for how long now? If he doesn't play well here, his shot at making the US team is more or less done until after the 2010 World Cup.
Stuart Holden (Houston Dynamo): Of all the Dynamo's weapons, Holden is the one I feared the most in MLS Cup. People often underestimate his talent (though that's changing very fast) and he'll burn you if you do. He's not aggressive, but he definitely plays with a chip on his shoulder.
Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA): Easily my favorite young prospect for the US. His composure and creativity, as well as strong service make him one of the most deadly threats on the team. With the lack of wingers, I expect him to play almost the entire tournament, this is his "coming out" as a national team figure.
Dax McCarty (FC Dallas): This is a player I think has a good shot at cementing a spot in the future, but I don't know if he's ready quite yet. He had a solid season with Dallas, but I'm still unsure if he's all there. He's got a lot to prove to me, but as with Gaven, I'll be pushing for him to suceed.
Sal Zizzo (Hannover 96): Of all the players on the team, I'm most intrigued in how Zizzo plays. He had a good U-20 World Cup, and I want to see if he can take that success to a higher level. If so, welcome the US' newest prospect.
Freddy Adu (SL Benfica): It's Freddy, what else can I say? From what I've gathered, Benfica fans are pushing for more playing time, but the coach is holding him back (flashbacks of DC anyone?). I have no doubts in my mind he'll do well, and I hope he competes with Dos Santos as they did in the U-20 World Cup.
FORWARDS
Jozy Altidore (New York Red Bulls): Coming off his first senior goal, the kid's confidence will be soaring. I can't wait to see Adu and Jozy on the same pitch, they're key to our future.
Chad Barrett (Chicago Fire): Why? Barrett has had his fair share of chances and blown them all. He's the second coming of Taylor Twellman, I doubt he'll ever be a staple for the national team. Experiment failed, move on.
Charlie Davies (Hammarby IF): I was so bummed when he ditched the Revs for Sweden, so it's only natural I have high hopes for him. I'd expect he and Jozy to partner up top, but let's hope that Nowak doesn't pull an Arena and suit up Barrett.
Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake): Jozy, Adu and Findley as out attacking combo could be deadly. All three have pace that could burn every team in the competition. I don't think Findley should start, but he's definitely going to be a great option off the bench.
Overall, I think the squad is strong, but there are a few players I would have chosen over who's in the current team.
WHO MISSED THE CUT
Benny Feilhaber (Derby County): I think if he was at least playing for Derby's reserves he'd have a shot at the team, but I've got to assume a lack of match fitness and confidence led to him being cut from the final roster. I hope he gets out of Derby as soon as possible.
Neven Subotic (FSV Mainz 05): Praised as the best defender in Bundesliga 2 and rumored to be heading to England in the offseason, he's a given. However, his indecision of what national team to play for (Germany, Bosnia, Serbia or the USA) was probably the final catalyst in his decision. I heard rumors that he actually turned down the US call-up.
Adam Cristman (New England Revolution): Now I'm not saying who we called up top is bad, but I'd have taken Cristman over Barrett any day. Cristman was on a tear before he injured himself and lost fitness. His lack of play with the Revs in the pre-season seems to be playing a big part in this as well.
Michael Parkhurst (New Engand Revolution): He would have been taken as an overage player, someone who is over the 23 year old age limit, but Nowak didn't feel he was the right choice. He can't seem to get a call up anywhere, and the choice to convert Hill over calling up Parkhurst has got to be frustrating.
Danny Szetela (Brescia Calcio): He's not getting much playing time in Serie B, but he needs these kinds of games right now. It's not like we're playing a strong qualifying field, I'd say give the kid a shot.
Brad Guzan (Chivas USA): Again, he'd be an overage, but he's easily the best young keeper we've got. I don't understand why they wouldn't take this opportunity of more playing time and playing under large crowds, but I guess they're trying to develop the younger guys.
Michael Harrington (Kansas City Wizards): Harrington, Cristman and Edu were the best of the rookie class last season, so you'd have thought that they'd get a shot for the national team? Apparently Nowak disagrees, I'd have loved to see Harrington in this squad.
[EDIT] I've come to learn that overage players are not allowed in qualifying, but I would like to see the players mentioned in the final roster to Beijing (assuming we qualify).
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