I’m hoping for Costa Rica to win big enough, but not too big, and Mexico to lose on Wednesday, sending USA and Costa Rica through and Mexico to the playoff. Sure, they’ll probably beat New Zealand/Solomon Islands, but let’s see ‘em sweat a little.
I feel the same way as you, Grant. I have waiting for this team to dominate a game from start to finish. And they did it. Lots of good work by everyone. That one lapse, which led to the Panama score, was dismaying. But I think it was a combination of tired legs, some subs and a lack of focus. There were mistakes but not many, and only the one grouping of them hurt us. I did not like Pulisic being on the pitch after his third goal and picking up a yellow card. And Reyna looks special. Although that shot on his early breakaway was pretty lame. I think Moore faired well on defense. But the late sub ( Long?) was not impressive
Our depth (when healthy and not suspended because of the bogus ridiculous yellow card rule) is getting very impressive. As good as we looked tonight, we were missing a bunch of first team studs, plus there are still guys like Joe Scally who A) are good and B) will contribute big time sooner or later. I wouldn't know what our best starting-11 would be if all were healthy in November in Qatar! But I do know there would be plenty of top notch subs. This team can compete!
Leaving game now. Can’t believe Grant’s substack beat me to parking lot
Shaq Moore flies in and has a performance!
I’m hoping for Costa Rica to win big enough, but not too big, and Mexico to lose on Wednesday, sending USA and Costa Rica through and Mexico to the playoff. Sure, they’ll probably beat New Zealand/Solomon Islands, but let’s see ‘em sweat a little.
Impressed Fox didn't call this from the studio!
I feel the same way as you, Grant. I have waiting for this team to dominate a game from start to finish. And they did it. Lots of good work by everyone. That one lapse, which led to the Panama score, was dismaying. But I think it was a combination of tired legs, some subs and a lack of focus. There were mistakes but not many, and only the one grouping of them hurt us. I did not like Pulisic being on the pitch after his third goal and picking up a yellow card. And Reyna looks special. Although that shot on his early breakaway was pretty lame. I think Moore faired well on defense. But the late sub ( Long?) was not impressive
Our depth (when healthy and not suspended because of the bogus ridiculous yellow card rule) is getting very impressive. As good as we looked tonight, we were missing a bunch of first team studs, plus there are still guys like Joe Scally who A) are good and B) will contribute big time sooner or later. I wouldn't know what our best starting-11 would be if all were healthy in November in Qatar! But I do know there would be plenty of top notch subs. This team can compete!
Finally! A fairly easy game. And a HUGE win, for the team and the program. Congratulations, guys. Let the media buildup begin. On to Qatar!
(Because there’s no way they can blow a 6 goal difference advantage vs Costa Rica, right? RIGHT?????)