Challenges Ahead for USMNT
After suffering a record loss against Colombia, the United States men's national team (USMNT) faces a critical moment. The team must regroup and demonstrate that they are prepared for Copa America. Their next match, scheduled for Wednesday night in Orlando against Brazil, is set to be a significant test. Although Brazil's defense has its vulnerabilities, their attack—led by the remarkable 17-year-old Endrick—has been formidable, notching seven goals in their last three matches. Three of those goals came from Endrick himself. Another poor performance against Brazil would be a serious indictment of both the team and its management.
Tim Ream, a key figure in the squad, succinctly analyzed 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."
Don't Let Brazil Get into Their Game
Ream highlighted a critical mistake by the USMNT: allowing Colombia to play their game. Making a similar error against Brazil could be fatal. Brazil can excel both on the counter-attack and in maintaining possession. To hold their ground, the USMNT must show that they can be physical while also keeping control of the ball. Recent matches have indicated that Brazil does give opponents opportunities to score. Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun, and Tim Weah will need to capitalize on these chances more effectively. Had they done so in the first half against Colombia, the outcome might have been different. The team's front three remains their strength, and their performance will be crucial.
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Time for a Back Three?
USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter is contemplating a three-man defense to slow the game down and focus more on containing Brazil's potent offense. While this could limit their attacking options, it may be a strategy worth considering. Tim Weah, who often plays as a wing-back for his club, is familiar with this role. However, this setup would likely result in the dynamic Gio Reyna being benched. Although adding a third center-back might seem redundant given Brazil's absence of a recognized number nine, it could provide more targets for set pieces, making dead-ball situations more advantageous. When conventional approaches have failed in critical games, experimenting with a different formation might offer new possibilities.
A potential 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.
Fight for the Crest
The shortcomings against Colombia were not solely tactical, making the defeat particularly disheartening. Previous USMNT teams may have lacked players in top European leagues, but they always played with heart and gave their all on the pitch. At the end of the Colombia game, it felt as though the USMNT gave up, which is unacceptable, even in a friendly match. A victory against Brazil is not mandatory but would significantly boost morale. What is required, however, is an improved performance. The USMNT needs to demonstrate more determination and a stronger desire to control possession. Achieving this will lead to positive outcomes; failing to do so could result in an early exit from Copa America.
Wednesday's match in Orlando is more than just a game; it is an opportunity for the USMNT to show 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. The test against Brazil could well define the USMNT's trajectory heading into Copa America, making it a pivotal moment in their campaign. The spotlight is on them, and it is time for the USMNT to fight for the crest and prove their mettle on the international stage.