The first half was relatively uneventful, with the Mexicans dominating possession and getting the better opportunities; however, the United States’ backline was almost impenetrable in this half, led by strong performances at center back from Omar Gonzalez and Clarence Goodson. Both men constantly headed dangerous balls away from the opposition and blocked shots when needed, and the holding midfielders (Jermaine Jones and Kyle Beckerman) fell back appropriately if there were mistakes. Behind all of these men came a fantastic performance from goalie Tim Howard, who saved numerous shots, including one brilliant stop off a curving effort by Giovani Dos Santos.
The two goals in the match both came in the second half, one off of a brilliant corner, headed home by Eddie Johnson while elevating over Mexican goalie Jose de Jesus Corona. The second came from a Mikkel “Mix” Diskerud cross, slightly touched by Clint Dempsey as Corona rushed out and later punched home by Landon Donovan's powerful right foot. Playing (or even winning) a match without Jozy Altidore—who, apart from the last game against Costa Rica, has been in top form—seemed to be a daunting task for Jurgen Klinsmann’s side, but good passing and solid overlapping runs from the fullbacks, especially halftime substitute Michael Parkhurst, created several chances for the Americans and eventually led to goals being scored.
All in all, the United States became one of 10 teams to have qualified for the World Cup at this point in time, and the second team in CONCACAF after Costa Rica. This is the seventh straight World Cup berth for Team USA, but they look as strong as ever heading into this summer’s tournament. Before the loss to Costa Rica, the Stars and Stripes had won 12 straight matches (including friendlies), many of which came in dominating fashion. Veterans Donovan, Dempsey, and Johnson have been consistent as always, while newcomers John Brooks, Brad Evans, Joshua Gatt, and Aron Jóhannsson have put in solid performances as of late, and look to crack the starting 11 by the time summer rolls around.
For some, the United States may have simply qualified for yet another World Cup, but in reality, this squad has the potential to outdo the performances of the past and go down in American soccer history as the best team in recent memory.
Caption: Eddie Johnson celebrates last night after scoring the go-ahead goal in the 49th minute (credit: The Guardian)
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