Challenges Ahead for the USMNT
Coming off a record loss against Colombia, the United States men's national team (USMNT) faces the daunting task of bouncing back as they prepare for Copa America. Set to clash with Brazil on Wednesday night in Orlando, the upcoming match serves as a pivotal test. Brazil’s defense, while not impenetrable, will nevertheless pose a significant challenge. Spearheading their attack is the formidable Endrick, who has netted three of Brazil’s seven goals in their last three matches. A failure to show improvement against Brazil would cast a long shadow over the team and its management.
Tim Ream, a crucial figure in the squad, offered insight into the errors made in the Colombia match:
"I think what he's trying to say there is that we played into exactly what Colombia is good at, and that's the transition game. We didn't do enough to mitigate that type of game in the last 30 minutes, and I think that's really what he's getting at when he said that."
Avoiding Brazil's Game
Ream highlighted a fundamental mistake that the USMNT made: allowing Colombia to dictate the game. Repeating this mistake against Brazil could be disastrous. Brazil excels both in quick counter-attacks and in maintaining possession. The USMNT needs to demonstrate physicality and ball control to stand a chance. Although recent matches suggest Brazil's defense offers scoring opportunities, capitalizing on these will be crucial for Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun, and Tim Weah.
Had the attack been more clinical in the first half against Colombia, the outcome might have been different. The front three remains the USMNT’s strength, and their performance will be key. For passionate, unapologetic, and informed discussions about American soccer, fans can tune in to the "Call It What You Want" podcast.
Considering a Back Three
In an effort to tighten the defense and control the pace of the game, USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter is contemplating a three-man back line. While this formation may restrict attacking options, it’s a strategy worth exploring. Tim Weah, accustomed to playing as a wing-back for his club, could adapt to this role. However, this setup might necessitate dropping the dynamic Gio Reyna to the bench.
While adding a third center-back might seem redundant given Brazil's lack of a traditional number nine, it could bolster set-piece plays. When conventional strategies fail in significant matches, a fresh approach can yield surprising results. A potential lineup for the upcoming match might include Matt Turner, Antonee Robinson, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, Tim Weah, Christian Pulisic, and Folarin Balogun.
Fighting for the Crest
The shortcomings against Colombia were not solely tactical, which made the loss particularly disheartening. While past USMNT teams might have lacked players from top European leagues, they always played with heart. At the end of the Colombia game, it seemed that the USMNT had given up—a sentiment unacceptable even in a friendly match.
Though a victory against Brazil is not mandatory, it would be a significant morale booster. What’s essential is to see an improved performance. The USMNT must show more determination and desire to control possession. Achieving this will lead to positive outcomes, while failure will likely result in an early exit from Copa America. Wednesday's match in Orlando goes beyond just a game; it’s an opportunity for the USMNT to demonstrate growth, resilience, and the ability to compete at the highest level. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see if this squad can rise to the occasion.