All Things Soccer: February 2012

The State of the USA International Soccer Team

The U.S. National Soccer Team has been in limbo for quite some time. The biggest news in recent memory for fans has to be the hire of former German international Jurgen Klinsmann, who has so far led a talented squad to a 4-4-1 record. While there is no question that inconsistency has plagued the team, the American public has an extreme amount of loyalty and excitement for U.S. soccer.

There is absolutely no question that the team has talent. Led by club soccer stars Tim Howard, Clint Dempsey, and Landon Donovan, there exists a nice balance between offensive and defensive potential. Defensive standouts include captain Carlos Bocanegro, Michael Bradley, and Steve Cherundulo, while premier goal scorers include Jozy Altidore, Edson Buddle, and Juan Agudelo. Young talent like Brek Shea, Eric Lichaj, and Clarence Goodson are part of the new generation brought up by Klinsmann.

The most prominent problem for the U.S. squad has been scoring, despite the tremendous amount of individual ability. In 2011, the U.S. scored a mere 15 goals in 17 games, resulting in many losses to teams that they should have beaten. Part of this lack of scoring has been attributed to managers Klinsmann and Bob Bradley not making enough of an effort to find Landon Donovan a proper spot on the pitch. Trying to force an offensive midfielder to play forward, midfield, and wing has had an effect on Donovan’s game. Donovan scored only one goal in 2011 in a loss to Mexico in the Gold Cup Final. Many feel that it is important for the U.S. squad’s attack for the ball to run through Donovan on every play, due to his experience, ability, and creativity.

Talent is often lost in soccer when execution and passion is lacking, and this has been the case for the national team here in America for a while. However, if Klinsmann can get the team running on all cylinders, the popular opinion is that the U.S. squad can compete for a World Cup in 2014.

Sunday, February 26, 2012