Rise of the USMNT <FM20>

[pfeifere1]

CONCACAF Nations League - Division A - Group 1
USA vs Cuba
Pre-Match

[pfeifere1]

CONCACAF Nations League - Division A - Group 1
USA vs. Cuba





Ruthless Domination in Pfeifer's Debut

While it was a day long awaited for the beginning of a new USMNT trajectory, it was Jozy Altidore, the veteran, who rose above the rest. Altidore's 3 goals paced a vicious United States attack that included 17-year-old Efrain Alvarez pulling the strings as the attacking midfielder.

Coming out in a very bullish 4-2-3-1, the Stars and Stripes never allowed Cuba out of their defensive third of the field. As expected, this young, athletic squad pushed a high line with a relentless high level of pressing from the front 4. With Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie sitting in behind the front 4, Cuba never had a chance at creating any looks at goal.

Having scored a goal and tying for a match-high rating of 9.2, Efrain Alvarez showed his potential of being the creative midfielder this team has been lacking for years. The flair he brought to this game really allowed space on the wings for Christian Pulisic (2 assists) to cause havoc.

[pfeifere1]

To anyone following, I've also created a different video with more of a pregame and recap feel to it. Let me know you thoughts. Ultimately I know I have to pick one that I enjoy doing, doesn't take too long to do, and of course is enjoyed by the community. Let me know your thoughts!

[pfeifere1]

October 2019

[pfeifere1]

CONCACAF NATIONS LEAGUE - Division A - Group 1
Matchdays 2 & 3 Roster Selection





Bradley is Back

With two games during this international window, first up in Canada then in Cuba, the depth of this roster. With the fantastic form of Brad Guzan for Atlanta United, the 35-year-old veteran finds his way into the goalkeeping crew. Bill Hamid should be back to full fitness for the Cuba match, but for the first match against Canada we can expect Guzan to be the backup behind Zack Steffen.

Along the back line Antonee Robinson replaces Tim Ream at the left back position. Robinson brings more of an attacking presence to the left side, mirroring Sergino Dest on the right.

In the middle of the field, Michael Bradley (151 caps) is closing in on the overall cap leader, Cobi Jones (164). Bradley adds a veteran presence to the midfield with an anticipated change into a 4-1-2-3 against Canada. Replacing Will Trapp in the roster, Bradley has been in great form for Toronto FC since returning from injury almost a month ago.

This October international window could potentially bring the USMNT that much closer to securing a spot in the CONCACAF Nations League Semifinals. Six points from these two games could put them out of reach, but four points might be the most realistic goal.

[pfeifere1]

CONCACAF NATIONS LEAGUE - Division A - Group 1
USA vs. Canada
BMO Field - Toronto, Canada
Pre-Match

[pfeifere1]

CONCACAF NATIONS LEAGUE - Division A - Group 1
USA vs. Canada
BMO Field - Toronto, Canada
October 10, 2019





United States Holds Off Pesky Canada

After a very strong first half in which the United States built a 2-0 lead and ultimately a 3-0 lead shortly after the break, it was Canada who controlled much of the second half. While it was Darlington Nagbe (2 goals and 1 assist) who was man of the match, much praise needs to be given out to superstar right back Sergino Dest (3 assists).

Bringing Michael Bradley back into the lineup meant dropping into a 4-1-2-3 that kept Bradley just ahead of the center backs. With Bradley in the lineup, the USMNT were able to build a 3-0 lead. Kellen Acosta came on for Bradley in the 68th minute and, unfortunately, did not seem to do the job as well as Bradley.

Sitting atop the group with 6 points and having taken care of business in the most difficult match of the group play, the USMNT are in the drivers seat towards the Nations League Semifinals. Up next, a trip down to the Estadio Pedro Marrero in Cuba.

[OliDegu2008]

Oh man, what a game! Exciting even if it is Canada.