Challenges Ahead
After a record loss to Colombia, the United States men’s national team (USMNT) faces a pivotal moment. It's essential for the team to regroup and demonstrate their readiness for Copa America. The upcoming match against Brazil, scheduled for Wednesday night in Orlando, will serve as a crucial test. As Brazil gears up for Copa America, they too have areas for improvement in defense, despite their prolific attack, led by the young prodigy Endrick. With seven goals in their last three matches—three of which were scored by the 17-year-old—Brazil presents a formidable challenge. An underwhelming performance against Brazil would be a significant indictment of the team and its management.
Tim Ream, a key figure in the squad, shed light on one of the critical 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 Rhythm
Ream pointed out one of the primary mistakes that the USMNT made: allowing Colombia to play their game. Repeating this error against Brazil could be devastating. The Brazilian team excels in both counter-attacking and possession play. To stand a chance, the USMNT must be physical and maintain ball control. While Brazil has shown vulnerabilities in their defense, creating opportunities to score, the American trio of 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 match could have had a different outcome. The front three remains the strength of the USMNT, and their performance will be pivotal. Fans looking for a passionate and informed discussion about the USMNT and American soccer can tune into the "Call It What You Want" podcast.
Time for a Back Three?
To focus more on defense and slow the game down, USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter has considered deploying a three-man defense. Although this strategy might limit attacking options, it warrants consideration. Tim Weah, who often plays as a wing-back for his club, is familiar with this role. However, this setup might mean benching the dynamic Gio Reyna. While adding a third center-back might seem redundant given Brazil’s lack of a recognized number nine, it could offer advantages in set-piece situations. When the conventional approach has failed in big games, it may be worthwhile to experiment with different formations.
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 issues against Colombia were not purely tactical, contributing to a disheartening loss. While previous USMNT teams may have lacked players from top European leagues, they always played with heart and left everything on the pitch. The USMNT’s perceived surrender at the end of the Colombia game is unacceptable, even in a friendly match. Although a victory against Brazil is not mandatory, it would considerably boost morale. What is essential, however, is an improved performance. The USMNT needs to display more determination and control of possession. Achieving this will likely lead to positive outcomes. Failing to do so could mean 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 an ability to compete at the highest level. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely, eager to see if this squad can rise to the occasion. The team’s response against Brazil will be a significant indicator of their progress and readiness for upcoming challenges.