I never thought a soccer match could make me as disgusted as I was tonight. In CONCACAF, the refs are usually better at hiding their bias. There will be some terrible calls, but much of the game is even. Tonight was a new low, even for CONCACAF. Had I not gone out to watch the game with the Orlando Soccer Supporters Club, I would have turned it off. I’m still amazed the US managed a victory.
I expect the USMNT to get hosed on the road. In CONCACAF, that’s just how it is. If things are going to be this bad for the US on American soil, what can be expected when the Yanks travel to Honduras? I shudder to think how ugly it will get.
This match also has me worried about some of the American players. Apart from his goal, Clint Dempsey looked disinterested for much of the night. He’s been shaky lately. Perhaps Bradley should consider giving Torres or Holden more minutes and force Dempsey to think about his commitment to the national team. Perhaps he was just tired, or the altitude was affecting him, but he was just off for much of the night. We’ve come to expect more of Deuce. He’s better than he showed tonight.
Several players were also very impressive tonight. Before he picked up an injury, Charlie Davies was a beast. He outclassed his defender every time he touched the ball. Sadly his crosses never found a head, causing all of his hard work to go down the drain quickly. Jozy Altidore showed the world tonight why Hull City is so happy to have him. He’s playing with a new found confidence that comes with playing in one of the world’s best leagues and the USMNT is reaping all the benefits. We’re still waiting on an explanation about his called-back goal. The best I’ve heard is that Dempsey was whistled for a foul on the pass, but the call clearly came after the goal was scored.
Looking ahead at the final three matches of the 2010 Qualifying campaign, I am very worried. I don’t expect much of a challenge from Trinidad on Wednesday, but after tonight, I know the US stands no chance whatsoever of winning in Honduras on October 10th. The Americans are the better team, but if tonight is any indication of the officiating, the match won’t be anywhere near fair. This means that the final match on October 14th against Costa Rica will be for all the marbles.
While that makes for a great story, I for one am seriously concerned about the US’ chances against Costa Rica. Fewer things are more dangerous than a dying animal, and that’s exactly what the Ticos are. After tonight’s beatdown by Mexico, the Ticos are on the ropes. Unless El Salvador can manage a miracle and beat them Wednesday, their chances will be very much alive in Washington DC. Don’t expect them to lie down just yet. I still think the US will qualify, but the days of a guarantee are long gone. This will be a knock down drag out fight to the finish.
