Challenges Ahead for the USMNT
With a record loss against Colombia in the rearview mirror, the time has come for the United States men's national team (USMNT) to bounce back and show that they are ready for Copa America. Their next match, scheduled for Wednesday night in Orlando against Brazil, will be a crucial test for the team and its management.
Brazil, with its potent attacking prowess led by their young super-sub Endrick, has been on a scoring spree. The Seleção has netted seven goals in their last three matches, with three of those goals courtesy of the 17-year-old prodigy. However, it’s not just Brazil's offense that poses a challenge; their defense, though still a work in progress, offers a stern test for the American forwards. Failing to improve against Brazil would bring significant questions about the USMNT’s readiness and strategy.
Tim Ream, a key figure in the squad, explained one of the errors made against Colombia:
"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 one of the primary mistakes that the USMNT made: allowing Colombia to dictate the match. Making a similar mistake against Brazil could prove to be fatal. Brazil is a team that excels on the counter and in possession. If the USMNT hopes to be competitive, they will need to be both physical and proficient in ball control. Recent matches have shown that Brazil does concede opportunities to their opponents. Forwards Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun, and Tim Weah must capitalize on these opportunities more effectively. Had they been more clinical in the first half against Colombia, the outcome might have been different.
The front three remains a strength for the USMNT, and their performance will be key. For an engaging and informed discussion about the USMNT and the state of American soccer, fans can tune in to the “Call It What You Want” podcast.
Considering a Back Three?
In an effort to shore up the defense and control the tempo of the game, USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter has considered deploying a three-man defense. While this could potentially limit their attacking options, it is a strategy worth exploring. Tim Weah, who often plays as a wing-back for his club, is familiar with this role. However, using this setup might mean dropping the dynamic Gio Reyna to the bench. Adding a third center-back might seem redundant given Brazil's lack of a recognized number nine, but it could provide more targets for set pieces, making dead-ball situations more advantageous.
When traditional tactics fail in significant matches, experimenting with a different formation could yield surprising benefits. A possible lineup for the upcoming match could 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 Pride
The shortcomings against Colombia were not solely tactical, which made the loss so disheartening. Previous USMNT squads may have lacked players regularly featuring in top European leagues, but they always played with heart and left everything on the pitch. At the end of the Colombia game, it felt like the USMNT gave up, which is unacceptable even in a friendly match.
A victory against Brazil is not mandatory, although it would significantly boost morale. However, what is required is an improved performance. The USMNT needs to display greater determination and a stronger desire to control possession. If they achieve this, positive outcomes will follow. Failing to do so will leave them facing a likely early exit from Copa America.
Wednesday's match in Orlando is more than just a game; it is 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, waiting to see if this squad can rise to the occasion.