This was an experimental squad and should be evaluated as such. The expectations were pretty clear for most. Getting out of the group should still be easy and making it past the first knockout was the minimum. Anything past the semis was gravy. From that point on, by any analysis, the US was the underdog. I don't know if Berhalter set up the group this way to purposefully get data on how well his defensive tactics would work against a clearly superior, more technical and experienced opponent but it wouldn't surprise me if this was so. The tactics were certainly much different than the nation's league. Berhalter switched to an aggressive high press instead of the mid block he used in the last final. The response from the group was close to ideal. I don't think anyone in the USMNT believes this is the final product but it is good to see that Berhalter continues trying new players and new tactics to fine tune the final product.
Only a few words about Canada, which were the revelation in the tournament? Disappointing. Should have beaten the U.S and could have beaten Mexico.. . Without Davies, David and a handful of other starters. Can’t wait for WC qualifying.
This was an experimental squad and should be evaluated as such. The expectations were pretty clear for most. Getting out of the group should still be easy and making it past the first knockout was the minimum. Anything past the semis was gravy. From that point on, by any analysis, the US was the underdog. I don't know if Berhalter set up the group this way to purposefully get data on how well his defensive tactics would work against a clearly superior, more technical and experienced opponent but it wouldn't surprise me if this was so. The tactics were certainly much different than the nation's league. Berhalter switched to an aggressive high press instead of the mid block he used in the last final. The response from the group was close to ideal. I don't think anyone in the USMNT believes this is the final product but it is good to see that Berhalter continues trying new players and new tactics to fine tune the final product.
Only a few words about Canada, which were the revelation in the tournament? Disappointing. Should have beaten the U.S and could have beaten Mexico.. . Without Davies, David and a handful of other starters. Can’t wait for WC qualifying.
Back to the patriotic re-education camp for you!1!11!