Challenges Ahead for the USMNT
After enduring a record loss against Colombia, the United States men's national team (USMNT) must regroup and demonstrate their readiness for Copa America. The upcoming match on Wednesday night in Orlando against Brazil offers a critical test. While Brazil's defense has shown some vulnerabilities, their attack has been nothing short of formidable, spearheaded by their super-sub, Endrick. The 17-year-old prodigy has netted three goals in Brazil's last three matches, contributing to a total of seven goals. Failing to show improvement against Brazil would be a severe indictment of the team and its management. Tim Ream, a pivotal figure in the squad, succinctly 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."
Don't Let Brazil Get into Their Game
Ream highlighted one of the primary mistakes the USMNT made: allowing Colombia to play their preferred style of game. Committing a similar mistake against Brazil could be catastrophic. Brazil excels at both counter-attacking and maintaining possession. The USMNT needs to demonstrate that they can be physical while also maintaining ball control. Recent matches have shown that Brazil gives their opponents opportunities to score. Key players like 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 of the USMNT is undoubtedly their strength, and their performance will be crucial. For a passionate, unapologetic, and informed discussion about the USMNT and the state of American soccer, fans can tune into the "Call It What You Want" podcast.
Time for a Back Three?
To slow the game down and focus more on defense, USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter is considering deploying a three-man defense. While this could potentially limit their attacking options, it is a strategy worth considering. Tim Weah, who often plays as a wing-back for his club, is familiar with this role. However, employing this setup would likely mean 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 during set pieces, making dead-ball situations more advantageous. When conventional tactics have failed in significant games, shaking things up with a different formation might be what the team needs. 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.
Fight for the Crest
The shortcomings against Colombia were not just tactical, which made the loss even more disheartening. Previous USMNT teams may have lacked players in top European leagues, but they always played with heart and left everything on the pitch. In the final moments of the Colombia game, it felt like the USMNT gave up—a sentiment that is unacceptable, even in a friendly match. Victory against Brazil is not mandatory, but it would significantly boost morale. An improved performance is what is required. The USMNT needs to show more determination and 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 their 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.