USA v Canada--Quick Thoughts

After the debacle against Spain, the US got back on track with a 2-0 win over Canada. The match started slowly, with the US dominating much of the first half. The second was much livelier and only Howard kept our neighbors to the north from getting a goal.

Couple of notes:

Goalkeeper:

Howard did well, especially in a nervy second half. He yells a lot at his field players. How about yelling before the crisis arises?

Defense:

Bocanegra started at left back. He’s going to be how old come World Cup 2014? (35). He’d better sign with AC Milan and get on the Maldini fitness plan if he wants to make a difference.

Center backs were composed and organized. Ream got megged but other than that, they dealt with a series of Canadian crosses and corner kicks. Cherundolo contributed down the right hand flank. Would have liked to seen Lichaj as well.

Midfield:

Donovan and Dempsey were solid. Thought Donovan had the better of the match, tracking back and providing an attacking thrust. Dempsey was muted until he moved up top and grabbed a goal. Kljestan was barely noticeable, which is good. Just keep the ball moving, meet your defensive responsibilities, but get rid of the ‘stache.

Jermaine Jones is worthless. My mancrush on him was over after the Spain game. I really cannot believe that after his performance against Spain, he was trotted out there again. Makes even simple possession into a chore. Had one thrilling dribbling moment. Other than that, waste.

Jones’ center mid partner, Michael Bradley did really well, perhaps even Man of the Match. Could tell a difference when he came against Spain to help change the game and continued on last night with great link up play, good positioning and tremendous work rate.

Forwards:

The forwards were ok. Felt they could have attacked the Canadian rearguard a little quicker. First touch is still heavy from both and they tend to move into trouble instead of finding a link up. Wondolowski barely registered for me.

2nd goal was fantastic. A lot of attacking success came from the right hand side, and in this moment Altidore fizzed a ball across the six, which Agudelo deflected and Dempsey put in.

From the Canadian perspective, Josh Simpson (#11) was quite good. Decent in 1 on 1 situations. Looked like US had eye on him because Cherundolo and Donovan would frequently double team in the channel. Doing a little research, turns out he plays with Manisaspor in the Turkish First Division and his team is Manucho (Man United reject). De Rosario didn’t quite make an impact. Think he was a little overwhelmed in midfield, with Canada’s possession very spotty, especially in the first half.