Thursday, August 15, 2013
The Takeaway: USA vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina
With USA moving up to #19 in FIFA World Rankings and Bosnia-Herzegovina at its best-ever ranking in its history (#13), this international friendly would benefit both sides before World Cup Qualifying resumes. Some may find these friendlies meaningless, but they are a good way to test a team’s resolve against top opponents. They simulate what any team could potentially encounter in Brazil next summer. Jürgen Klinsmann reiterates,
“These are top-class players and that’s what we like to go against. We want to have the highest benchmark to always measure ourselves up against.” (U.S. Soccer)Here are takeaways from USA vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina:
1. The streak is alive.
The victory against Bosnia extended the USMNT winning streak to 12 games. This happens to be the longest, current streak in the world. It shows exactly how far U.S. Soccer has evolved. And it couldn’t have come at a better time. What started on June 2nd with a 4-3 win vs. Germany continues to spread positive vibes in the U.S. camp. A feel-good factor that is contagious to all.
2. Magic moments produce magic goals.
When a goal-scoring threat like Edin Dzeko is on the pitch, it would make any backline nervous. It was only 8 minutes into the game when Eddie Johnson gave the ball away and Dzeko capitalized on a defensive lapse. Within half an hour Ibisevic gave Bosnia a 2-0 lead. The first half was uninspiring for the USMNT, but second half switched gears. Klinsmann was yet again smart with substitutions when Edgar Castillo came on as left-back pushing Fabian Johnson out wide. Eddie Johnson and Jozy Altidore were the striking partnership in a 4-4-2. There was a different sense of purpose exuding from the USMNT on the pitch. They had more possession and could find the space to create better chances. USA answered back with four goals. Eddie Johnson’s first touch didn’t fail him when he received a perfect pass from Jozy Altidore to put the Americans back into the game. This goal would be Johnson’s first goal on European soil. However, the man of the hour was none other than Altidore. He scored a hat trick bringing him to an impressive 7 goals in 5 consecutive games. If Jozy had his critics, he didn’t need to say anything. Speaking with his goals against a top team was enough.
3. When push comes to shove.
This fighting spirit by the USMNT was exactly what Klinsmann hoped to instill from Day 1. Persistence and passion have the power to transform any side. Jürgen has previously stated that circumstances will not always go according to us. Ultimately, the team has to develop adaptability in key matches. The combination of playing intuitively and intelligently will in turn make the odds in our favor. Earlier Klinsmann received critique for not providing enough instructions to players. His whole philosophy is have players think outside the box and put them in these uncomfortable situations. He’s able to guide them, but on the pitch they have to be able to figure it out on their own. Although it was only a friendly, this match models exactly what Klinsmann expects out of the squad. Winning doesn’t come easy, but a winner’s mentality makes it easier.
4. Introduction of new faces.
One unfamiliar name glared out at me in the starting lineup. Alongside Geoff Cameron in central defense, John Anthony Brooks made his debut for the senior team. The 20-year-old doesn’t have too much experience, but his calm and composed nature makes him a huge asset for the Stars and Stripes. The 6’4” German-American took on one of the best strikers in the world for 90 minutes, yet held his ground. Brooks explains choosing USA over Germany “was not a heard decision” because he could tell “the U.S. really wanted [him].” Another player who is highly-rated and made his appearance in the 63rd minute was Aron Jóhannsson. The 21-year-old striker made a one-time switch to USMNT over Iceland. Jóhannsson describes his style as “good in the box, good about anticipating where the ball is going to be, and being in the right places.” Indeed, Aron showcased all his attributes. He attempted two fantastic shots coupled with his quick feet and instinctive first touch. Both players won over hearts and could greatly contribute in the future. Above all, USA boosts its quality and adds depth with these new acquisitions.
5. Some things never change.
Although the attention was on new players, the veterans once again proved they are the backbone of the team. Tim Howard served as captain and he never fails in his duties. Bosnia could have easily gotten more than 3 goals had Howard not been in goal. He made crucial save after save and his reflexes were quicker than lightning. Tim Howard’s experience is key when reading the movements of opposing players. Michael Bradley is another player who had a terrific performance. The true visionary that he is supplied the perfect ball for the 1st goal. His pinpoint passes dictate the flow of the game. Bradley holds one of the most significant and under-rated roles on the USMNT squad. It’s no surprise he boasted an impressive 92% pass completion rate.
On September 6th and 10th USMNT will continue their World Cup Qualifying campaign against Costa Rica and Mexico, respectively. This match was just what they needed to keep the momentum going.
“It’s good for the guys to see we can come to Europe and we’re not here to defend, we’re here to play eye-to-eye.” - Jürgen Klinsmann
Written by: Goral Patel
Follow me on Twitter: @goralpatel
FT: USA 4-3 Bosnia-Herzegovina
Goals
Edin Dzeko - 8'
Vedad Ibisevic - 30'
Eddie Johnson - 55'
Jozy Altidore - 59', 84', 86'
Edin Dzeko - 90'
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