It`s Monday, and it feels like a tough start to the week for USMNT fans. Let`s recap the dramatic week in Nations League action across CONCACAF and UEFA.
USMNT Under Scrutiny
With just over a year until the World Cup at SoFi Stadium, the USMNT suffered another setback. This `Golden Generation` failed to secure a medal in a four-team tournament, finishing fourth in the CONCACAF Nations League after a 2-1 loss to Canada, following a narrow 1-0 defeat to Panama. Despite another close game, luck seemed against the USMNT, highlighted by a deflection that led to Tani Oluwaseyi`s opening goal for Canada.
This team, dominant in CONCACAF for the past half-decade, was expected to overcome such unfavorable moments. Their talent has been widely praised, but veterans are questioning if technical skill is enough without the right mentality. Landon Donovan expressed his frustration on social media, emphasizing that “pride is better” than talent. Clint Dempsey echoed these concerns after the game:
- Dempsey: “You`d hope they would be motivated for this game, show pride to get back on track and rally the fans… They need to fight for their supporters. Things are tense, and there`s internal friction. When I played, I gave everything.”
Pochettino himself hinted at similar issues after the Panama loss, mentioning an `automatic pilot` mode among players who might have underestimated their opponents. Christian Pulisic noted that for Panama, the game was “their everything.”
Attitude could be a fixable problem before the World Cup, especially with the advantage of hosting. However, what if the issues are deeper?
Canada`s winning goal came from Jonathan David, a top European-level player – a type of talent the USMNT possesses only sparingly. While some Americans play for major European clubs, many are squad players, and some struggle for consistent playtime. This raises questions about whether this generation has truly progressed since the 2022 World Cup.
One analyst suggests that the inconsistency in club playing time might have hindered the development of this promising group. This is a worry for Pochettino: while attitude can be adjusted, the player pool is set. The Nations League performance suggests the World Cup is approaching with significant challenges.
UEFA Nations League Highlights
The UEFA Nations League quarterfinals were packed with drama. Three of the ties went to extra time, two decided by shootouts, and another saw a team nearly squander a significant aggregate lead.
Portugal against Denmark was a highlight, with Cristiano Ronaldo taking center stage. After missing an early penalty, Ronaldo later scored to level the tie. Francisco Trincao became Portugal`s hero with two crucial goals, sending them to the semifinals against Germany in Munich.
Germany seemed in control against Italy, building a substantial lead. However, a late surge by Italy, including two goals from Moise Kean and a late penalty, almost completed a remarkable comeback, but Germany advanced.
Spain will face France in the other semifinal. Spain`s victory featured another standout performance from young Lamine Yamal. France overcame a first-leg deficit against Croatia, winning in a penalty shootout despite Luka Modric`s team`s usual shootout prowess.
The stage is now set for the UEFA Nations League semifinals in Germany in June.
Key Takeaways
- USMNT in Disarray: Following a difficult week, questions arise about the team`s direction.
- Legend Opinions: Experts express concerns about USMNT`s World Cup chances.
- Player Ratings: Performance reviews highlight areas for improvement within the USMNT squad.
- Mexico`s Victory: Mexico celebrates a tournament win, led by Raul Jimenez.
- Nations League Final Controversy: The final was marred by disruptive anti-gay chants.
- Juventus Coaching Change: Juventus replaces Thiago Motta with Igor Tudor after a disappointing period.
- Tuchel`s Debut: Thomas Tuchel`s first game with his new team provided initial insights.
- Club Leon Excluded from CWC: Club Leon faces a ban from the Club World Cup.
