davidconnell.net

After this weekend’s horror show against Spain and the 48-plus hours of hand-wringing that ensued as a result, last night’s decisive and controlling 2-0 win for the United States Men’s National Team had the refreshing air of a mild thunderstorm. The game was as it should have been — nearly thoroughly dominated by the United States and played in a controlled manner that lead to two quality goals, but did not create the type of fireworks we saw from Mexico, Costa Rica and Jamaica. Truth be told, the US probably won’t open up 4-0 or 5-0 leads against any team as it advances through the World Cup. It’s not the type of game they play.

Last night the word was control — the US controlled the attack from the outset through tough and smart midfield play from Michael Bradley and Jermaine Jones. Bradley was particularly impressive in the midfield, creating attacking chances and defending well when he was needed. Our forwards were bright and active, with Jozy Altidore scoring one goal and creating the assist on the second. For the first 75 minutes, the back line was solid and well organized. Clarence Goodson had a particularly good game. He made smart decisions, played with a calm demeanor and covered for Tim Ream when necessary. Central defense is still a question for the US, but Goodson may well be nailing down a starting spot for himself. Tim Howard had a fairly quiet night, but was called on to make some high quality saves. In the 75th minute he deflected a sure goal from Canadian substitute Ali Gerba over the bar and stopped a series of close range shots — the final from Gerba — in the dying minutes of the match to secure the shutout.

This was a good game for the US. They started the tournament with a solid win and got good performances out of their best players. Landon Donovan was excellent as usual in creating from the midfield and Clint Dempsey played with intensity and skill. Dempsey’s audacious first-half scorpion kick appeared to be on target, but was thwarted by a Canadian defender who happened to be in the right place at the right time. But most importantly, Jozy Altidore, a man who had largely gone missing during the World Cup, was a factor. His goal brimmed with confidence and strength and he actively took on players throughout the match. It was very good to see him in form.

But there are still questions hanging over this team. Barring injury, the US is settled in the midfield and at forward with good options for substitutes and two players — Clint Dempsey and Freddy Adu — who can move to a forward position when needed. However, the defense — in particular the central defense — is still very much in question. While Goodson has played well, Oguchi Onyewu continues to struggle since his knee injury. Tim Ream, frankly, isn’t quite ready for the level of competition here. As the tournament progresses, I’d like to see Carlos Bocanegra brought into the central defense and Jonathon Spector put out on the flank so we can have a look at a more experienced configuration.

The US will need that experience, because there are rough times ahead. The US should not be considered the favorite in this tournament. Mexico is playing dynamic soccer right now with a renewed sense of confidence and vigor. Led by Manchester United star Chicharito Hernandez, the side is much more dangerous in the attack than the United States right now. With the final scheduled for the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, a very friendly venue for Mexico, El Tri are the clear favorites. The US needs to pick up its game defensively (in all aspects really) if they hope to be playing in the Confederations Cup in 2013.

Last night’s match inspires some confidence and under Bradley, the US has never started tournaments guns blazing. As he said last night after the match, “When you get into a tournament you need to keep growing.” Let’s hope our defense can grow up fast.