US Men's National Team (43 Viewers)

[TennesseeJed]

I am going to die on the Luna hill.

He is in our best XI somewhere.

Somewhere in the future. He isn't there yet IMO.

He had a good game overall. Some loose passes and sloppy moments with some great touches and well taken goals. Definitely deserves to be seen against better competition and with the better players around him. Potential to be an impact sub now, future starter.

He has the grit and determination that the primary starters lack.

That’s what has been missing from recent teams.

He's nowhere near good enough defensively at this level... Ability or tactical-wise...Despite his grit and determination (which I love too). Tillman is light-years ahead of him in that regard. So he either plays as the 9 or he has to beat out Swag, Weah or CP. I don't see him winning the balls he'd need to as a 9- again, he's fantastic with a little time and space and going at goal, but even in the MF he's getting beat to the space and ball too much for my liking on the offensive side, and far too much on the defensive.

He’s got a year of development ahead of him.

Don’t write him off yet. I think Poch likes him, and when the head coach likes you, stranger things have happened!

 

[B Maverick]

As it stands, Richards/Tillman start for the A Team. Ream too but need someone to claim his spot. Adams not great today but still a starter.
Luna could be an impact sub, future starter.
Ag has potential.

the rest? meh

Luna 100% should be on A team along with Richards, Tillman, Ream and Berhalter.

Still no striker. Would just run a false 9 or whatever the hell and just be done with the never ending line of strikers who can’t finish.

Not sure who will be GK.

What are you seeing with Berhalter to say he should be there?

GK and Striker are still up for grabs.

 

[El Floppo]

Turner, Dest, Richard’s, Ream, Jedi, CP, Weah, Luna, Swag, Berhalter, Adams.

................GK?

Dest, richy , ream, jedi

.......Adams, swag

Weah......Tillman.....CP

..............pepi/balo


Maybe Seb makes the roster, but yikes no seeing the field as a starter. If Luna can improve his defensive abilities, I can see him fighting Timmy to see the field

 

[B Maverick]

Turner, Dest, Richard’s, Ream, Jedi, CP, Weah, Luna, Swag, Berhalter, Adams.

Funny way of spelling Tillman and Balo (or Pepi)

Berhalter should not be anywhere near the starting lineup. Luna is first off the bench when needing attackers.

 

[B Maverick]

Turner, Dest, Richard’s, Ream, Jedi, CP, Weah, Luna, Swag, Berhalter, Adams.

................GK?

Dest, richy , ream, jedi

.......Adams, swag

Weah......Tillman.....CP

..............pepi/balo


Maybe Seb makes the roster, but yikes no seeing the field as a starter. If Luna can improve his defensive abilities, I can see him fighting Timmy to see the field

For a newbie you make a lot of sense and are wise beyond your years.

 

[bagger]

As it stands, Richards/Tillman start for the A Team. Ream too but need someone to claim his spot. Adams not great today but still a starter.
Luna could be an impact sub, future starter.
Ag has potential.

the rest? meh

Luna 100% should be on A team along with Richards, Tillman, Ream and Berhalter.

Still no striker. Would just run a false 9 or whatever the hell and just be done with the never ending line of strikers who can’t finish.

Not sure who will be GK.

What are you seeing with Berhalter to say he should be there?

GK and Striker are still up for grabs.

I think his set pieces in general have been really strong and really more than anything he brings some grit and asshattery that is sorely missing with the more talented players.

He’ll get in there and mix it up.

Just don’t put him in for penalties.

me having Berhalter in is en exchange for a true striker. Hot take I guess but I am done with the never ending group of strikers who can’t finish.

Turner, Dest, Richard’s, Ream, Jedi, CP, Weah, Luna, Swag, Berhalter, Adams.

Funny way of spelling Tillman and Balo (or Pepi)

Berhalter should not be anywhere near the starting lineup. Luna is first off the bench when needing attackers.

oh yeah left out Tillman so no Berhalter. Don’t think balo is the answer.

 

[B Maverick]

I am going to die on the Luna hill.

He is in our best XI somewhere.

Somewhere in the future. He isn't there yet IMO.

He had a good game overall. Some loose passes and sloppy moments with some great touches and well taken goals. Definitely deserves to be seen against better competition and with the better players around him. Potential to be an impact sub now, future starter.

He has the grit and determination that the primary starters lack.

That’s what has been missing from recent teams.

He's nowhere near good enough defensively at this level... Ability or tactical-wise...Despite his grit and determination (which I love too). Tillman is light-years ahead of him in that regard. So he either plays as the 9 or he has to beat out Swag, Weah or CP. I don't see him winning the balls he'd need to as a 9- again, he's fantastic with a little time and space and going at goal, but even in the MF he's getting beat to the space and ball too much for my liking on the offensive side, and far too much on the defensive.

He’s got a year of development ahead of him.

Don’t write him off yet. I think Poch likes him, and when the head coach likes you, stranger things have happened!

No one is writing him off, just not declaring him a starter. He has a future in this team for sure. Just needs some development.

 

[El Floppo]

I am going to die on the Luna hill.

He is in our best XI somewhere.

Somewhere in the future. He isn't there yet IMO.

He had a good game overall. Some loose passes and sloppy moments with some great touches and well taken goals. Definitely deserves to be seen against better competition and with the better players around him. Potential to be an impact sub now, future starter.

He has the grit and determination that the primary starters lack.

That’s what has been missing from recent teams.

He's nowhere near good enough defensively at this level... Ability or tactical-wise...Despite his grit and determination (which I love too). Tillman is light-years ahead of him in that regard. So he either plays as the 9 or he has to beat out Swag, Weah or CP. I don't see him winning the balls he'd need to as a 9- again, he's fantastic with a little time and space and going at goal, but even in the MF he's getting beat to the space and ball too much for my liking on the offensive side, and far too much on the defensive.

He’s got a year of development ahead of him.

Don’t write him off yet. I think Poch likes him, and when the head coach likes you, stranger things have happened!

I never said I'm writing him off. But I'm never going to guess at his hypothetical growth to give him a spot over guys who are already there.

And everybody else has a year of development too... Who knows, maybe Ag learns how to be better too? And Arf learns how to defend.. and Yan gets a call up.

 

[B Maverick]

As it stands, Richards/Tillman start for the A Team. Ream too but need someone to claim his spot. Adams not great today but still a starter.
Luna could be an impact sub, future starter.
Ag has potential.

the rest? meh

Luna 100% should be on A team along with Richards, Tillman, Ream and Berhalter.

Still no striker. Would just run a false 9 or whatever the hell and just be done with the never ending line of strikers who can’t finish.

Not sure who will be GK.

What are you seeing with Berhalter to say he should be there?

GK and Striker are still up for grabs.

I think his set pieces in general have been really strong and really more than anything he brings some grit and asshattery that is sorely missing with the more talented players.

He’ll get in there and mix it up.

Just don’t put him in for penalties.

me having Berhalter in is en exchange for a true striker. Hot take I guess but I am done with the never ending group of strikers who can’t finish.

Turner, Dest, Richard’s, Ream, Jedi, CP, Weah, Luna, Swag, Berhalter, Adams.

Funny way of spelling Tillman and Balo (or Pepi)

Berhalter should not be anywhere near the starting lineup. Luna is first off the bench when needing attackers.

oh yeah left out Tillman so no Berhalter. Don’t think balo is the answer.

Thanks.

I get the fatigue around the constant striker questions. I still think that one of those guys will come good when our tactics include serving the striker. Tillman seemed to. Luna did too actually.
And yes the team needs a little fight in it.

I don't see the Berhalter love. Over the last two games I've seen 2 maybe 3 good set pieces from him. Not enough for me to agree with the "set piece specialist" he's being called. And for every good tackle there was a reckless one. Bite is good but there isn't enough skill there to just play when the bite isn't needed.
He was also terrible supporting Freeman defensively and esp on wide balls.

 

[NewlyRetired]

I thought Richards had an unusually quiet game given he has been arguably the best player on the US in the tournament.

Ream on the other hand was involved all game. May have been his best game of the tournament.

 

[B Maverick]

And you guys are making me agree with @El Floppo. Not sure that sits well with either of us.

 

[prefontaine]

Luna 100% should be on A team along with Richards, Tillman, Ream and Berhalter.

Seb tries hard and he's likely a joy to coach. He does what's asked. But if you run down the primary skills needed he's below average (and in some cases, well below average) in everything but set pieces. Love that he's getting a shot here. But let's be honest about what he is.

 

[El Floppo]

I thought Richards had an unusually quiet game given he has been arguably the best player on the US in the tournament.

Ream on the other hand was involved all game. May have been his best game of the tournament.

Yeah, agreed. Was a rough one tonight. Second to the ball too much and dicey with his passing.

And agree about Ream too... Best defensive night (I think mostly because he was called into having to do more than he has this tourney) and he's still one of the only guys consistently playing the right, aggressive line breaking ball

 

[Desert_Power]

Gold Cup finals should be the expectation, but feels good to see this squad do it.

 

[El Floppo]

As it stands, Richards/Tillman start for the A Team. Ream too but need someone to claim his spot. Adams not great today but still a starter.
Luna could be an impact sub, future starter.
Ag has potential.

the rest? meh

Luna 100% should be on A team along with Richards, Tillman, Ream and Berhalter.

Still no striker. Would just run a false 9 or whatever the hell and just be done with the never ending line of strikers who can’t finish.

Not sure who will be GK.

What are you seeing with Berhalter to say he should be there?

GK and Striker are still up for grabs.

I think his set pieces in general have been really strong and really more than anything he brings some grit and asshattery that is sorely missing with the more talented players.

He’ll get in there and mix it up.

Just don’t put him in for penalties.

me having Berhalter in is en exchange for a true striker. Hot take I guess but I am done with the never ending group of strikers who can’t finish.

Turner, Dest, Richard’s, Ream, Jedi, CP, Weah, Luna, Swag, Berhalter, Adams.

Funny way of spelling Tillman and Balo (or Pepi)

Berhalter should not be anywhere near the starting lineup. Luna is first off the bench when needing attackers.

oh yeah left out Tillman so no Berhalter. Don’t think balo is the answer.

Thanks.

I get the fatigue around the constant striker questions. I still think that one of those guys will come good when our tactics include serving the striker. Tillman seemed to. Luna did too actually.
And yes the team needs a little fight in it.

I don't see the Berhalter love. Over the last two games I've seen 2 maybe 3 good set pieces from him. Not enough for me to agree with the "set piece specialist" he's being called. And for every good tackle there was a reckless one. Bite is good but there isn't enough skill there to just play when the bite isn't needed.
He was also terrible supporting Freeman defensively and esp on wide balls.

Re: forward... Pepi was lights out for PSV before getting hurt. And not like he doesn't score for the US. Balo.. still holding onto what I saw from him when first got called up, but not sure he can replicate his club style (and he's been hurt for a while) capitalizing on runs diagonal or through the middle with the US who still seem to just run the ball wide and then across into the box.

 

[Desert_Power]

I thought Richards had an unusually quiet game given he has been arguably the best player on the US in the tournament.

Ream on the other hand was involved all game. May have been his best game of the tournament.

Yeah, agreed. Was a rough one tonight. Second to the ball too much and dicey with his passing.

And agree about Ream too... Best defensive night (I think mostly because he was called into having to do more than he has this tourney) and he's still one of the only guys consistently playing the right, aggressive line breaking ball

Ream picked up a knock in the spring that has really been slowing him down. I see that Transfermarkt has it listed from 5/19 -5/30 but it has been MUCH longer.

 

[SpurrierisisGod]

As it stands, Richards/Tillman start for the A Team. Ream too but need someone to claim his spot. Adams not great today but still a starter.
Luna could be an impact sub, future starter.
Ag has potential.

the rest? meh

Luna 100% should be on A team along with Richards, Tillman, Ream and Berhalter.

Still no striker. Would just run a false 9 or whatever the hell and just be done with the never ending line of strikers who can’t finish.

Not sure who will be GK.

Who does berhalter push out of the XI?

This isn't his WC imo. Next one perhaps.

 

[SpurrierisisGod]

It is becoming painfully obvious that the lack of finishing strikers can be traced to to the lack of pickup games in the 'hood. No creativity. No killer instinct. For 10 years its looked like guys tying to do what the coach told them to do. Just not threatening.

 

[The Z Machine]

If we are going with a false 9, I'd put Puli up top with Luna, Tillman, and Weah as the attacking midfield. We know that Puli can finish. We know he can create off the dribble and we know he has excellent touch and spacial aweareness imntue box. What he lacksnis height and and hold up ability. But maybe we trade that off for a dynamic and creative attacking midfield? Has Puli ever played as a False 9?

BTW this would probably mran Wes and Adams in a double pivot to try to lock down the middle of the park. Tillman would have to do some heavy work on progression through the middle of the field. Luna will have to run his balls off on defense though as he's definitely going to pinch in from the left and be out of position sometimes in transition. Hopefully we'll have Jedi behind him to cover a lot of ground too.

Basically this idea puts Luna in for a higher pace attack, but gives up almost all chances for hold up play or scoring with the head from a wide cross.

It also means that our best skilled player ever will see the ball much less than if he were playing on the wing unless he drops deep to collect, which could actually work...

 

[zoobird]

It is becoming painfully obvious that the lack of finishing strikers can be traced to to the lack of pickup games in the 'hood. No creativity. No killer instinct. For 10 years its looked like guys tying to do what the coach told them to do. Just not threatening.

Not sure what we're talking about here regarding strikers not being able to finish. Pepi led the top seven (at least) leagues in Europe in goals per 90 this year. His goals per 90 was more than 50% higher than the second highest player in the Eredivisie. At the point where he got hurt, he had just about replaced the reigning league MVP as the starter for PSV.

If Balogun starts over Pepi, it's because he does some other things better than Pepi...not because Pepi can't finish. We have two strikers who are EASILY at a good level relative to the quality of the rest of our team. They're not Haaland, but neither are our other guys.

Things certainly drop off sharply after those two, but if Pepi and Balogun are healthy for the WC, that's not one of my main concerns about the team.

 

[The Z Machine]

if Pepi and Balogun are healthy for the WC, that's not one of my main concerns about the team.

I agree if both are near their peak form of the last few years. That's the open question in mind in terms of their abilities.

The other open question is whether the tactics and technique of their surrounding cast can put them in places to use that finishing ability. If Weah and Jedi are getting to the endline and lifting crosses into the box, can either fwd get on the end and finish? Can Puli or Dest the fwd with a diagonal ball into the box after fighting through 2 defenders? Can Tillman find the fwd on a through ball from the midfield circle on a break?

 

[Dinsy Ejotuz]

Well, tbf bmav and I are pretty new to the sport, so these high level types of cliches will always go over our heads.

Like I said, I know people not understanding what I'm laying down is a me thing.

 

[TLEF316]

Obviously rooting for our guys but I just have a really bad feeling its gonna come crashing down against Mexico. Not that Mexico has looked good, but they're highly motivated to beat us and we've basically been 100% reliant on moments of brilliance (freese in the PK shootout and then Luna last night) to get through two mediocre opponents.

We really have not played very well in either game.

And then you've got quotes like this from Ream.....

“We’re on to a final, a final that I’d say a month ago, everyone basically counted us out of,” Ream said. “Shame on them. So, for us, it’s like: great, amazing. It’s knockout football. You find a way to win. You find a way to grind it out. You find a way to do it. And why shouldn’t we be happy to go on to a final and play for a trophy? That’s why we play this game, to play in front of crowds like that and play for trophies.”

I certainly get being happy about what they've achieved. (given who is missing) But really?....... SHAME on anyone who doubted them? After THAT nations league performance and those 2 friendlies? Just a very weird attitude after squeaking by the 106th best team in the world.

 

[Ramsay Hunt Experience]

Mentioned it in the soccer thread..
Gio got zero minutes last night, and I think only got a few last minute "here ya go, USA" moments in the meaningless 3rd group game. Weah also not getting PT for Juve.

They both REALLY need to move elsewhere.

At this point would love to see Gio go to like a PSV (not sure they even have a need) to play in an attacking system like that and get his swagger back. But anywhere that he could get on the field would be better then where he is at.

Psv would be great- eith Tillman leaving, they definitely have a need.

I've seen reporting that he's been shopped to PSV and the other two "big" Dutch teams in Ajax and Feyenoord by his agent. The league seems right for

As it stands, Richards/Tillman start for the A Team. Ream too but need someone to claim his spot. Adams not great today but still a starter.
Luna could be an impact sub, future starter.
Ag has potential.

the rest? meh

Luna 100% should be on A team along with Richards, Tillman, Ream and Berhalter.

Still no striker. Would just run a false 9 or whatever the hell and just be done with the never ending line of strikers who can’t finish.

Not sure who will be GK.

Who does berhalter push out of the XI?

This isn't his WC imo. Next one perhaps.

I don't endorse this, but I do think that the one guy we all have in ink in the starting lineup who is probably in a more precarious position than we might think, is McKennie. Is he better than Sebb? Of course he is. But we can't keep wondering which Wes we're going to get every game.

 

[Ramsay Hunt Experience]

Obviously rooting for our guys but I just have a really bad feeling its gonna come crashing down against Mexico. Not that Mexico has looked good, but they're highly motivated to beat us and we've basically been 100% reliant on moments of brilliance (freese in the PK shootout and then Luna last night) to get through two mediocre opponents.

We really have not played very well in either game.

And then you've got quotes like this from Ream.....

“We’re on to a final, a final that I’d say a month ago, everyone basically counted us out of,” Ream said. “Shame on them. So, for us, it’s like: great, amazing. It’s knockout football. You find a way to win. You find a way to grind it out. You find a way to do it. And why shouldn’t we be happy to go on to a final and play for a trophy? That’s why we play this game, to play in front of crowds like that and play for trophies.”

I certainly get being happy about what they've achieved. (given who is missing) But really?....... SHAME on anyone who doubted them? After THAT nations league performance and those 2 friendlies? Just a very weird attitude after squeaking by the 106th best team in the world.

You know that's how athlete brain works. "NOBODY BELIEVED IN US!!!!"

 

[B Maverick]

I don't endorse this, but I do think that the one guy we all have in ink in the starting lineup who is probably in a more precarious position than we might think, is McKennie. Is he better than Sebb? Of course he is. But we can't keep wondering which Wes we're going to get every game.

I agree with you that McKinnie may have a loose hold in the lineup, but I haven't seen anything to make me think Seb is better than bad McKinnie.

 

[El Floppo]

Obviously rooting for our guys but I just have a really bad feeling its gonna come crashing down against Mexico. Not that Mexico has looked good, but they're highly motivated to beat us and we've basically been 100% reliant on moments of brilliance (freese in the PK shootout and then Luna last night) to get through two mediocre opponents.

We really have not played very well in either game.

And then you've got quotes like this from Ream.....

“We’re on to a final, a final that I’d say a month ago, everyone basically counted us out of,” Ream said. “Shame on them. So, for us, it’s like: great, amazing. It’s knockout football. You find a way to win. You find a way to grind it out. You find a way to do it. And why shouldn’t we be happy to go on to a final and play for a trophy? That’s why we play this game, to play in front of crowds like that and play for trophies.”

I certainly get being happy about what they've achieved. (given who is missing) But really?....... SHAME on anyone who doubted them? After THAT nations league performance and those 2 friendlies? Just a very weird attitude after squeaking by the 106th best team in the world.

Yes...shame on all of us for doubting them. That's kinda the point - after everything they've showed, even us diehards were (for good reason) writing them off.

And I know FIFA has them ranked wherever...but this is- no hyperbole- the best Guat team I've seen. Even better than the Ruiz days. They're really organized, driven, gritty, and have enough legit skilled guys to get results. Outside of Luna's moments of magic, they were clearly better than this US B squad, and that performance is how they've played all GC. They dismantled and dominated Jamaica in ways I never expected. I wouldn't put too much on the 106th ranking.

I don't endorse this, but I do think that the one guy we all have in ink in the starting lineup who is probably in a more precarious position than we might think, is McKennie. Is he better than Sebb? Of course he is. But we can't keep wondering which Wes we're going to get every game.

I agree with you that McKinnie may have a loose hold in the lineup, but I haven't seen anything to make me think Seb is better than bad McKinnie.

Same. What I've seen in limited Seb viewing so far... His heights have hit Swag's LCD.

Sure, swag gets swallowed up and lost in games occasionally, but he still gets quality moves into those.. which is basically all I've seen from Seb. Nice in set pieces, good resolve to work hard, willingness to try longer aggressive balls (which I didn't see last night). Those are all standard operating procedures from a Swag game, with much higher and consistent highs mixed in.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Obviously rooting for our guys but I just have a really bad feeling its gonna come crashing down against Mexico.

It is not a hot take really. We already saw this bunch get dissected by Switzerland and a 3-4 goal to El Tri loss would not be a surprise.

Historically these games have tended to be close affairs no matter who is on the field for either team. There has been an odd blow out here or there and perhaps it is time for another one given the circumstances.

 

[El Floppo]

Obviously rooting for our guys but I just have a really bad feeling its gonna come crashing down against Mexico.

It is not a hot take really. We already saw this bunch get dissected by Switzerland and a 3-4 goal to El Tri loss would not be a surprise.

Historically these games have tended to be close affairs no matter who is on the field for either team. There has been an odd blow out here or there and perhaps it is time for another one given the circumstances.

Mex have the players that will punish all of those horrendous giveaways the US gifted Guat.

If the US can't find their quickness of thought, touch, vision and will to win 2kd balls, it will be an ugly affair.

 

[B Maverick]

Obviously rooting for our guys but I just have a really bad feeling its gonna come crashing down against Mexico.

It is not a hot take really. We already saw this bunch get dissected by Switzerland and a 3-4 goal to El Tri loss would not be a surprise.

Historically these games have tended to be close affairs no matter who is on the field for either team. There has been an odd blow out here or there and perhaps it is time for another one given the circumstances.

Mex have the players that will punish all of those horrendous giveaways the US gifted Guat.

If the US can't find their quickness of thought, touch, vision and will to win 2kd balls, it will be an ugly affair.

Hopefully Mexico is more interested in kicking the US Players then scoring on them....
Or Freese goes all Howard vs Belgium and someone pulls an anti-Wondo move.

 

[El Floppo]

Obviously rooting for our guys but I just have a really bad feeling its gonna come crashing down against Mexico.

It is not a hot take really. We already saw this bunch get dissected by Switzerland and a 3-4 goal to El Tri loss would not be a surprise.

Historically these games have tended to be close affairs no matter who is on the field for either team. There has been an odd blow out here or there and perhaps it is time for another one given the circumstances.

Mex have the players that will punish all of those horrendous giveaways the US gifted Guat.

If the US can't find their quickness of thought, touch, vision and will to win 2kd balls, it will be an ugly affair.

Hopefully Mexico is more interested in kicking the US Players then scoring on them....
Or Freese goes all Howard vs Belgium and someone pulls an anti-Wondo move.

I haven't seen a lot that tells me they can be all world, but the players out there can't play much worse than they did against Guatemala (other than ream and luna).

What I've seen of Mexico isnt terribly scary, but they have a bunch of good players who are more than capable of punishing that kind of play. So if the US plays collectively up to their capabilities, I don't see why it can't be a good fight.

 

[NewlyRetired]

If there was a viewer who was very knowledgable about the sport but knew nothing about the US team, and they watched the whole Gold Cup so far I think they would easily be able to pick out Richards and Tillman as two guys who are likely part of the full team.

I am unconvinced in this same situation any one would pick out Adams. I know his style is a quiet player but he should be showing more IMO in these games.

 

[zoobird]

If there was a viewer who was very knowledgable about the sport but knew nothing about the US team, and they watched the whole Gold Cup so far I think they would easily be able to pick out Richards and Tillman as two guys who are likely part of the full team.

I am unconvinced in this same situation any one would pick out Adams. I know his style is a quiet player but he should be showing more IMO in these games.

I agree.

I suspect at least part of that is that his playing style makes him more valuable when a team is having to defend heavily, than when they're often attacking. That said, it doesn't fully explain how little impression he's made, as we've had stretches (like a large chunk of the last game) where we didn't have a ton of possession

 

[bagger]

Mentioned it in the soccer thread..
Gio got zero minutes last night, and I think only got a few last minute "here ya go, USA" moments in the meaningless 3rd group game. Weah also not getting PT for Juve.

They both REALLY need to move elsewhere.

At this point would love to see Gio go to like a PSV (not sure they even have a need) to play in an attacking system like that and get his swagger back. But anywhere that he could get on the field would be better then where he is at.

Psv would be great- eith Tillman leaving, they definitely have a need.

I've seen reporting that he's been shopped to PSV and the other two "big" Dutch teams in Ajax and Feyenoord by his agent. The league seems right for

As it stands, Richards/Tillman start for the A Team. Ream too but need someone to claim his spot. Adams not great today but still a starter.
Luna could be an impact sub, future starter.
Ag has potential.

the rest? meh

Luna 100% should be on A team along with Richards, Tillman, Ream and Berhalter.

Still no striker. Would just run a false 9 or whatever the hell and just be done with the never ending line of strikers who can’t finish.

Not sure who will be GK.

Who does berhalter push out of the XI?

This isn't his WC imo. Next one perhaps.

I don't endorse this, but I do think that the one guy we all have in ink in the starting lineup who is probably in a more precarious position than we might think, is McKennie. Is he better than Sebb? Of course he is. But we can't keep wondering which Wes we're going to get every game.

Honestly that’s what I was thinking a bit. Swag has legitimately been my favorite player on the team but he is in more of a precarious position than we may think.

 

[bagger]

If there was a viewer who was very knowledgable about the sport but knew nothing about the US team, and they watched the whole Gold Cup so far I think they would easily be able to pick out Richards and Tillman as two guys who are likely part of the full team.

I am unconvinced in this same situation any one would pick out Adams. I know his style is a quiet player but he should be showing more IMO in these games.

I agree, personally have been surprised how little he has stood out but also thinks he does so much of the little things on defense that maybe I am just missing his contribution? I do think if Adams wasn’t subbed out they may not have conceded the goal.

 

[bagger]

Ok so many of you are much more knowledgeable about soccer than me, I for the life of me don’t understand the timing of Poch’s substitutions and who they are for.

I also thought GGG was way too late.

Personally with a 2-0 lead at half I would have subbed out Arfston for Tolkien but what do I know.

 

[El Floppo]

Ok so many of you are much more knowledgeable about soccer than me, I for the life of me don’t understand the timing of Poch’s substitutions and who they are for.

I also thought GGG was way too late.

Personally with a 2-0 lead at half I would have subbed out Arfston for Tolkien but what do I know.

Ldlt, arf and Ag all needed to leave. Subs kinda obvious... Aaronson, tolkin, downs. But as you say- that's not how it went.

 

[TennesseeJed]

Avatar updated.

Legend of Luna.

 

[TennesseeJed]

I am going to die on the Luna hill.

He is in our best XI somewhere.

Somewhere in the future. He isn't there yet IMO.

He had a good game overall. Some loose passes and sloppy moments with some great touches and well taken goals. Definitely deserves to be seen against better competition and with the better players around him. Potential to be an impact sub now, future starter.

He has the grit and determination that the primary starters lack.

That’s what has been missing from recent teams.

He's nowhere near good enough defensively at this level... Ability or tactical-wise...Despite his grit and determination (which I love too). Tillman is light-years ahead of him in that regard. So he either plays as the 9 or he has to beat out Swag, Weah or CP. I don't see him winning the balls he'd need to as a 9- again, he's fantastic with a little time and space and going at goal, but even in the MF he's getting beat to the space and ball too much for my liking on the offensive side, and far too much on the defensive.

He’s got a year of development ahead of him.

Don’t write him off yet. I think Poch likes him, and when the head coach likes you, stranger things have happened!

No one is writing him off, just not declaring him a starter. He has a future in this team for sure. Just needs some development.

I meant don't write him off as a starter next summer.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Tom Bogert
@tombogert

BREAKING: Derby County and Charlotte FC have reached an agreement in principle for USMNT forward Patrick Agyemang, per sources.

Deal in region of $8m + $2m bonuses.

Charlotte retain sell-on clause.

Final details to be sorted but almost there

 

[NewlyRetired]

Ok so many of you are much more knowledgeable about soccer than me, I for the life of me don’t understand the timing of Poch’s substitutions and who they are for.

I also thought GGG was way too late.

Personally with a 2-0 lead at half I would have subbed out Arfston for Tolkien but what do I know.

here is what I posted shortly after the game

=================

Here is my review of the subbing pattern:

Aaronson in for LDLT: This was good. Not only was Luca having a poor game, but this got Tillman off the wing where he was starved of the ball all game and put him in the middle where he could touch the ball.

Tolkin in for Luna: Seriously, WTF. We knew the roster construction was an absolute mess but this made no sense especially when Luna's touches were the only thing working offensively

Downs in for Agy: 30 minutes+ too late. This was Poch's biggest mistake tonight. Agy simply did not have it

Walker in for Afsten: This was a very good sub. Put 5 at the back, bringing Tolkin back and telling Walker to do what he does best at the end of games.

McGlynn in for Adams: Adams was not having a great game but putting McGlynn into a game that required work rate and defensive chops was strange to say the very least

 

[bagger]

Ok so many of you are much more knowledgeable about soccer than me, I for the life of me don’t understand the timing of Poch’s substitutions and who they are for.

I also thought GGG was way too late.

Personally with a 2-0 lead at half I would have subbed out Arfston for Tolkien but what do I know.

Ldlt, arf and Ag all needed to leave. Subs kinda obvious... Aaronson, tolkin, downs. But as you say- that's not how it went.

curious why you think he didn’t and/or waited so long?

This was my criticism of GGG as well, almost waiting until something bad happened late to sub versus being proactive.

Instinctually it feels so wrong.

 

[NewlyRetired]

Ok so many of you are much more knowledgeable about soccer than me, I for the life of me don’t understand the timing of Poch’s substitutions and who they are for.

I also thought GGG was way too late.

Personally with a 2-0 lead at half I would have subbed out Arfston for Tolkien but what do I know.

Ldlt, arf and Ag all needed to leave. Subs kinda obvious... Aaronson, tolkin, downs. But as you say- that's not how it went.

curious why you think he didn’t and/or waited so long?

The Agy late sub is the one that sticks out like a sore thumb to me.

My rough guess is that he knew Agy was struggling but has no confidence in White and Downs was coming off an injury and maybe he did not think he had 30 minutes in him.

That is the best I can come up with.

 

[El Floppo]

Ok so many of you are much more knowledgeable about soccer than me, I for the life of me don’t understand the timing of Poch’s substitutions and who they are for.

I also thought GGG was way too late.

Personally with a 2-0 lead at half I would have subbed out Arfston for Tolkien but what do I know.

Ldlt, arf and Ag all needed to leave. Subs kinda obvious... Aaronson, tolkin, downs. But as you say- that's not how it went.

curious why you think he didn’t and/or waited so long?

The Agy late sub is the one that sticks out like a sore thumb to me.

My rough guess is that he knew Agy was struggling but has no confidence in White and Downs was coming off an injury and maybe he did not think he had 30 minutes in him.

That is the best I can come up with.

I forgot all about White. He's a guy that would've been good on the hustle front, and deceptively decent winning the ball and drawing fouls.

Ag was so bad on the night, it makes me really concerned with Pochs decision making to keep him in there so long.

 

[prefontaine]

This is a very limited roster. Haji is hurt. Johnny is hurt (or has removed himself to complete his transfer). White and Harriel appear to be unplayable. Brady, Downs, Paxten Aaronson, and Sullivan as the kids on the roster are here to gain experience (first call ups for all). That leaves 18 guys which is paper thin.

I wouldn't expect a lot of changes or subs. Our bench is essentially Brendan Aaronson, McGlynn, Tolkin, McKenzie, Zimmerman, Miles Robinson, and Turner. Assuming we are not going to sub CBs or GKs, that leaves 3 players and the kids. That's shockingly awful options for knockout stages.

 

[bagger]

Ok so many of you are much more knowledgeable about soccer than me, I for the life of me don’t understand the timing of Poch’s substitutions and who they are for.

I also thought GGG was way too late.

Personally with a 2-0 lead at half I would have subbed out Arfston for Tolkien but what do I know.

Ldlt, arf and Ag all needed to leave. Subs kinda obvious... Aaronson, tolkin, downs. But as you say- that's not how it went.

curious why you think he didn’t and/or waited so long?

The Agy late sub is the one that sticks out like a sore thumb to me.

My rough guess is that he knew Agy was struggling but has no confidence in White and Downs was coming off an injury and maybe he did not think he had 30 minutes in him.

That is the best I can come up with.

I forgot all about White. He's a guy that would've been good on the hustle front, and deceptively decent winning the ball and drawing fouls.

Ag was so bad on the night, it makes me really concerned with Pochs decision making to keep him in there so long.

At especially looked like he was really laboring out there for at least 10 minutes before he got subbed off like he could barely run.

 

[bagger]

This is a very limited roster. Haji is hurt. Johnny is hurt (or has removed himself to complete his transfer). White and Harriel appear to be unplayable. Brady, Downs, Paxten Aaronson, and Sullivan as the kids on the roster are here to gain experience (first call ups for all). That leaves 18 guys which is paper thin.

I wouldn't expect a lot of changes or subs. Our bench is essentially Brendan Aaronson, McGlynn, Tolkin, McKenzie, Zimmerman, Miles Robinson, and Turner. Assuming we are not going to sub CBs or GKs, that leaves 3 players and the kids. That's shockingly awful options for knockout stages.

I don’t know what he sees in arfston but clearly is not recognizing him being such a liability. Would think Tolkien would be more solid there but what do I know

 

[zoobird]

This is a very limited roster. Haji is hurt. Johnny is hurt (or has removed himself to complete his transfer). White and Harriel appear to be unplayable. Brady, Downs, Paxten Aaronson, and Sullivan as the kids on the roster are here to gain experience (first call ups for all). That leaves 18 guys which is paper thin.

I wouldn't expect a lot of changes or subs. Our bench is essentially Brendan Aaronson, McGlynn, Tolkin, McKenzie, Zimmerman, Miles Robinson, and Turner. Assuming we are not going to sub CBs or GKs, that leaves 3 players and the kids. That's shockingly awful options for knockout stages.

I don’t see why he wouldn’t use the kids. They’re playing at a reasonably high level against the same competition as many of the older guys for their regular teams.

 

[SpurrierisisGod]

I get the late subs....only because I'm hoping poch knew we were on the back foot. Maybe hold off for as long as possible and have fresh legs for the final 10-15 to just keep the ball away from the final 3rd. Maybe.

Doesn't explain waiting so long on Agy. If you knew you were going to take him out, give someone a good 30-40 minutes to get going.

 

[SpurrierisisGod]

Eta: poch was over-stratrgizing. Trying to outlast the guat subs and go fresh late. Weather the storm so to speak.