Challenges Ahead
With a record loss against Colombia behind them, the United States Men's National Team (USMNT) now faces a critical juncture as they prepare for Copa America. The upcoming match, scheduled for Wednesday night in Orlando against Brazil, will be a crucial test for the squad. Brazil's defense has shown vulnerabilities, but their attack is a different story. The Brazilian team has scored seven goals in their last three matches, three of which came from their 17-year-old sensation, Endrick. Failure to show improvement against Brazil would be a significant indictment of the team and its management. Key player Tim Ream succinctly summarized 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 a primary mistake the USMNT made: allowing Colombia to play their game. Making a similar error against Brazil could be lethal. Brazil can hit opponents on the counter and excel in possession. The USMNT will need to demonstrate both physicality and ball control. Recent matches have shown that Brazil does give teams opportunities to score. Forwards like Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun, and Tim Weah will need to capitalize on these chances more effectively. If they had been more clinical in the first half against Colombia, the match outcome might have been different. The front three remains the strength of the USMNT, and their performance will be crucial. For a passionate and informed discussion about the USMNT and American soccer, fans can tune in to the "Call It What You Want" podcast.
Time for a Back Three?
In an effort to slow the game down and focus 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 benching the dynamic Gio Reyna. 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 advantageous. When conventional approaches have failed in big games, it might be time to shake things up. A possible lineup for the upcoming match could be: 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 solely tactical, which made the loss even more disheartening. Previous USMNT teams may have lacked players in top European leagues but 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, though it would significantly boost morale. What is required is an improved performance. The USMNT needs to show more determination and a stronger desire to control possession. If they achieve this, positive outcomes will follow. Failing to do so will leave them facing a likely early exit from Copa America.
Wednesday’s match in Orlando is more than just another 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 to see if this squad can rise to the occasion. This is the moment for the USMNT to fight for the crest and prove that they belong on the international stage.