Challenges Loom for USMNT
Emerging from a disheartening record loss against Colombia, the United States men's national team (USMNT) must rally and prove they are ready for Copa America. The upcoming match on Wednesday night in Orlando against Brazil is a crucial test. Brazil's defense has areas that need improvement, despite having an explosive attack led by their super-sub Endrick. The 17-year-old prodigy has contributed three of the seven goals Brazil scored in their last three matches. Failing to show improvement against Brazil would cast serious doubt on the team and its management. Tim Ream, a key figure in the squad, succinctly summed up 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."
Mitigating Brazil's Game Plan
Ream highlighted one of the primary mistakes that the USMNT made: allowing Colombia to play to their strengths. Making a similar mistake against Brazil could prove fatal. Brazil is adept at counter-attacking and excels in maintaining possession. The USMNT needs to demonstrate physicality while also maintaining ball control. Recent matches have shown Brazil granting opponents opportunities to score. Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun, and Tim Weah must capitalize on these chances more effectively. If they had been more clinical in the first half against Colombia, the outcome could have been different. The front three remain the core strength of the USMNT, and their performance will be key. For passionate, unapologetic, and informed discussions about the USMNT and American soccer, fans can tune in to the "Call It What You Want" podcast.
Considering a Back Three Formation
In an effort to slow the game and bolster the defense, USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter is considering deploying a three-man backline. Although this could limit their attacking options, it is a strategy worth exploring. Tim Weah, often playing as a wing-back for his club, is familiar with this role. However, this setup would likely mean that the dynamic Gio Reyna would start on 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 strategies fail in big games, trying a different formation might be necessary. 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.
The Importance of Fighting for the Crest
The shortcomings against Colombia were not solely tactical, which made the loss particularly disheartening. Previous USMNT teams may have lacked players 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. What is required, however, is an improved performance. The USMNT needs to demonstrate determination and a desire to control possession. If they achieve this, positive outcomes will follow. Failing to do so will likely 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 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.