Match Report: US vs Italy

Here are the highlights from the game. Fan discretion is advised:


Additional information: Soccernet

A reluctant ode to guiseppe Rossi
He has it-- hustle, skill, two-footed lightning bolts like those hurled by Zeus himself. Really, you can't fault Rossi for much. He's always represented Italy, and he's been unwavering in his commitment to them. Yes, he celebrated his goals, but so would I, with those sorts of strikes, especially if I was trying to establish myself as a starter for the World Champions. Yes, he grew up in New Jersey, but that wasn't his choice. It just hurts so bad because he's so good.

***

An eager ode to michael Bradley
At least we have homegrown, All-American beast Michael Bradley The first time I watched Bradley, two summers ago, I was reminded of Michael Ballack-- who, for some reason, I've always imagined riding at the head of invading Hun armies. But back to soccer.

Hard man Michael Bradley: the American Roy Keane?

Bradley has it. He may not be the most skilled player, but he has a certain elegance and enough technique to get the job done. Most importantly, though, he has the drive and determination written all over everything he does. If there is one thing that sticks out in my mind about Bradley, it is how a a commentator once mentioned that Bradley assiduously studies tapes of all the best midfielders in the game. He has that drive to improve, which he has done in leaps and bounds over the past year. I fully expect him to be playing in the Champions League in two years time. If you don't believe me, just rewatch the tape of this last game.

***

The Match
As far as the game goes: I think that the US put in a good performance. Our fullbacks were solid, Donovan looked menacing, and I though Bob Bradley made some good coaching decisions (in particular, I liked the Davies for Altidore substitution, even if it didn't yield many dividends). I also think the center of our defense is much better than most fans think it is. In short, it was a heartening showing-- and it needed to be, given that Egypt look quite good.

ESPN Gamecast: Shows just how little Italy managed to muster until the 56th minute, when Rossi's introduction sparked Italy into life against an increasingly tired American team, who were a man down after Ricardo Clark received a soft red card in the 32nd minute. US subs came in minutes 66, 72, 85; perhaps earlier subs would have given the US the energy to keep defensive pressure on the Italians?

Still, while Egypt did look far better than their FIFA ranking would suggest, they did manage to concede three set piece goals, and set pieces are the bread and butter of the USMNT...

-Alex D