COPA AMERICA: U.S.A-Argentina (My running commentary)
Here is the running commentary on tonight's Copa America match between the U.S. national team and Argentina.
Here we go, follow along by clicking the link below:
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85th minute- GOAL ARGENTINA- Tevez scores and it's 4-1. Hey, the NBA Draft is on, isn't it? Jeez.
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81st minute- I'm all for giving young guys experience but the Eddie Gaven substitution has been a complete waste.
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80th minute- Bradley uses his final sub to replace Clark with Kyle Beckerman. No Nguyen or Davies tonight. It's time to pack it up.
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78th minute- ARGENTINA GOAL. Juan Pablo Aimar with a great header goal on a perfect Heinze cross. And who was there watching the cross? Marvell Wynne. The kid was inexplicably lazy on that play.
And you know what's worse? Carlos Tevez is coming in for Messi.
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77th minute- I'm not saying the U.S. attack is invisible but I think Abbondanzieri just pulled out a lawn chair.
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75th minute- Gaven tries to make an attacking run. He's the only midfielder out there with an attacking mentality, but can someone realistically go from being on the Columbus Crew bench to being the guy who breaks down Argentina in a month? You know, I saw a picture of Lee Nguyen during a Copa America practice and thought he looked a little weird, like he wasn't healthy. Maybe he's just not fit. That's a shame because a lot of people were counting on him for the attacking quality missing due to the absences of Beasley and Dempsey.
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74th minute- Bornstein with a yellow card for fouling Messi. Talk about a tale of two halves. Bornstein went from MLS all-star to European transfer target to decent MLS defender in about an hour.
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72nd minute- What will there me more of in the remaining time, USA shots on goal or Argentina goals?
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70th minute- Here's a question. What kind of shape must Lee Nguyen be in for Bradley to go with Gaven ahead of him?
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67th minute- After watching the goal over again there were a few breakdowns on the play. First, you have Gaven not closing Messi down then you have Conrad stepping up to try and deal with Riquelme, leaving a big gap behind him for Crespo to run into. That's a tough one for Bornstein to come back and cover. Ultimately, the U.S. defendres gave Argentina time and space, which is clearly what Bob Bradley told them they can't afford to do.
Messi nearly find another goal with an amazing run. He's just turning it one now.
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64th- GOAL ARGENTINA- It was going to happen. Argentina strings three great passes together and Bornstein loses Crespo on an off-the-ball run. What a great play by Messi to start things.
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63rd minute- Hey, Twellman got a touch. Now there's a drinking game that would have gone nowhere.
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61st minute- Messi pulls a Messi and runs right through the U.S. defense only to put his shot into the side-netting. The guy is so dangerous.
And here comes Gaven for Ben Olsen. Now THAT is an interesting sub.
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60th minute- Now I'm not saying that Taylor Twellman is useless but where is he?
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60th minute- So exactly how long is Alfie Basile going to wait before he puts in Tevez?
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58th minute- Juan Pablo Aimar comes on for Cambiasso. Good sub. Aimar is a very creative player who can crack a defense with a perfect pass. Ricardo Clark had better be ready.
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57th minute- You know, for all the talk ripping Ben Olsen he's played very well today.
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55th minute- Johnson backpass, and drink.
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54th minute- Justin Mapp takes the kick and sends it over the bar. Where's Bobby Convey when you need him?
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53rd minute- Good foul call by the ref on ARgentina and a great free kick opportunity for the USA. Who takes the kick?
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52nd minute- One thing I will say is that I love the Argentina fan songs and chants. I still remember them from the Gold Cup last summer. Very infectious chants.
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50th minute- Some great work by the U.S. players to close down space and get physical with Argentina, making everything an uncomfortable situation.
Here comes Mapp, not sure why he thinks he's going to run by Zanetti.
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48th minute- How well is this center back tandem of Demerit and Conrad playing? Wow. I think they would win an election ahead of Onyewu-Bocanegra right now if U.S. fans voted.
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HALFTIME- By the way, the pass made by Feilhaber on the play that drew the US penalty kick was amazing. Go back and look at that play.
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HALFTIME- So I'm sitting here trying to understand why Eddie Johnson keeps stopping his runs to drop off useless back-passes when it dawned on me that Mike Sorber is an assistant coach. MetroStars fans out there must surely remember Sorber's penchant for the square and back pass to nothingness. Just a thought.
But seriously folks, what a great first half for the U.S. team. The defense and midfield stay solid and is doing a better job of staying with Argentine players making runs off the ball. That's the key to Argentina's attack, constant runs off the ball. If you sleep for a second someone is in alone on goal. So far only Marvell Wynne has done a less than stellar job handling this.
What will change at halftime? ARgentina will start to attack through the middle more and you can look for Messi to float toward the middle or left flank more. You can also expect to see Carlos TEves in the second half in place of either Cambiasso or Veron.
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HALFTIME Observations- Okay, if I'm Bob Bradley, here are my halftime instructions:
Eddie, next time you get the ball near the area I want you to keep dribbling at goal until either the ball or you are in the net.
Marvell, can you not wait until someone is past you to start running after him?
Taylor, where were you in the first half? Get in the area and make something happen.
Jonny Bornstein, keep doing what you're doing.
Benny (Feilhaber), way to keep going at their midfielders. Stay tighter to Riquelme. He's going to make something happen if we give him space.
Mapp, I want you to go at them.
Charlie Davies and Lee Nguyen, go warm up.
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HALFTIME- We head into the break tied at 1-1. And even in a commercial, Hugo Sanchez comes off like a jerk.
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45th minute- A 1-1 tie at halftime. How many of you would have called that one? Not me.
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44th minute- What the HECK is wrong with Johnson? I swear, he must have a shock collar on that zaps him if he gets near the penalty area. By the way, that hesitation merits a drink.
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43rd minute- Keller with a HUGE save on a Veron blast. Ball hits the crossbar and goes out for a corner.
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41st minute- Argentina has been knocking the ball around at will but can't get anything going in the final third. Bradley has to be happy.
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37th minute- Eddie Johnson AGAIN. Now drink.
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35th minute- Sorry for the delay, had a take a phone call.
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30th minute- Johnson back-pass. Everybody drink.
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28th minute- How about a new drinking game. A beer for every time Bornstein stops Messi and a shot every time Messi schools Bornstein. Actually, maybe you'd better not.
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26th minute- Bornstein stops Messi again. Bob Bradley is loving this.
By the way, when did Jorge Campos become a FIFA linesman?
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25th minute- Bornstein just picked Messi's pocket clean. Yes, you read that too.
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24th minute- Is anyone surprised to see Ben Olsen and Gabriel Heinze clashing? All we need is Gennaro Gattuso and we could have a pit bull battle Michael Vick would be proud of.
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23rd minute- Argentina puts some pressure on but doesn't find a goal. The U.S. defense is walking on eggshells right now but credit the U.S. midfield for putting in good work to help the defense.
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19th minute- Ah, Phil Schoen and Ray Hudson. Maybe I'll keep the game on GolTV. For my money, Ray Hudson is the best color guy in American soccer.
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17th minute- By the way, I'm watching this match on Telefutura. Maybe I'll check GolTV to see who's doing the game.
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16th minute- Bornstein does well to stay with Messi. Yes, you just read that, and yes, I just wrote that.
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15th minute- Who ever said Juan Riquelme was washed up? Oh, that's right, Villareal.
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14th minute- What a professional foul by Ayala and what a great pass by Feilhaber. Johnson may just have some confidence brewing after that PK.
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12th minute- How do you lose Hernan Crespo on a free kick?
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11th minute- ARGENTINA GOAL. Crespo ties it up on a short free kick that bounces around the area before Crespo pounces.
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10th minute- For the record, Johnson did try to stop after getting into the box, which is how he drew the PK foul, so for the purposes of the drinking game, that is a shot. Enjoy.
By the way, you know who's the happiest person that Johnson made the PK? Landon Donovan.
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8th minute- Eddie Johnson takes the penalty kick and SCORES. USA 1, Argentina 0
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6th minute- Here's a drinking game for you all to try. How about everyone take a shot whenever Eddie Johnson stops a run at the defense and chooses to back-pass instead. I suggest you have a stomach pump ready.
Eddie Johnson says "Drink this" by drawing a penalty. Nice
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5th minute- Messi is causing problems already and Wynne looks a bit stiff out there.
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4th minute- Wynne is 0-for-1 on completed passes (I know the Wynne haters are keeping track anyway but still.)
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3rd minute- I see Cambiasso has gone with the bald head. Good idea because he was holding on to strands for a good while (I'm sure half my hair just fell out for typing that).
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2nd minute- Argentina knocks the ball around well early in the back-line. I really get the feeling that Argentina is going to find an early goal.
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Pre-game- Nice crowd for this match. Nice mix of fans and after the sights at Soldier Field on Sunday this will feel like a home game for the Americans.
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Pre-Game- Maradona is at the game. Do you think he pays for anything in his life? Nothing beats the world fame credit card.
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Pre-game- The US is in those blue striped uniforms. I'm not sure how I feel about those yet. And there's Marvell Wynne. I know a lot of Wynne haters who are irate right now that he's out there.
Aqui.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 07:33 PM
Also, not sure if I missed it. But did you finish the last Q&A? Or is there a second section coming?
Gracias.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 07:35 PM
The storm has knocked out my satellite dish!!!!! Are they streaming this online anyone know? I haven't found anything yet.
Posted by: Jeff | June 28, 2007 at 07:37 PM
http://www.univision.com/contentroot/uol/30deportes/content/jhtml/copa_america/NOMETA_partidosEnVivo.jhtml
The game is on this site in spanish all copa america games are streamed live on this site so if you cant see it on tv you can watch it here!!
Posted by: Kevin | June 28, 2007 at 07:43 PM
I'll be watching the Univision online feed and following your running commentary as well as US Soccer's match tracker. I predict a 2-0 victory for the Argentines, but I can't wait to watch our team. Go USA!! BTW, Ives, your blog has really accelerated my learning curve for futbol. I've learned more in the last month reading your blog and all the comments than I've ever learned before. Keep up the great work!
Posted by: Aaron | June 28, 2007 at 07:49 PM
Lineups are in. You nailed it down earlier today correctly. Glad to see that espn and the copa site had them wrong. Should be interesting
Posted by: Graig | June 28, 2007 at 08:05 PM
Yeah, check out the US soccer match tracker to see. It looks like Ives got it right on earlier in the day!
I like it (but I still think Wynne's going to get burned).
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 08:11 PM
I'm heading over to a friend's place to watch it and probably won't be following the commentary tonight, but I'll be here in spirit...
BTW, Paraguay is rocking Colombia right now...
Posted by: Joamiq | June 28, 2007 at 08:15 PM
Who's the captain? It has to be Keller I suppose.
Posted by: ClayG | June 28, 2007 at 08:16 PM
I'll be checking in.
As for our outside backs, at least they have speed. It makes up for a multitude of sins
Posted by: Tony M | June 28, 2007 at 08:27 PM
Wow... I sure wouldn't want to be the team that plays Paraquay next. Hmmm... 4 points in this group might be unrealistic.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 08:27 PM
Dang, who's that chick that was just interviewed on Telefutura?
I'm glad she's on our side.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 08:34 PM
I'm in on the commentary.
Posted by: DCM | June 28, 2007 at 08:38 PM
Presente' (is than even a word?)
Posted by: smokeminside | June 28, 2007 at 08:48 PM
I think the pinstripes on blue look sharp. I'd like to see them stick with that. Who else does the pinstripe thing, after all?
Argentina largely controlling possession so far... how about Paraguay?
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 08:52 PM
US could have gone on a break there at the fourth minute after Mapp stole that pass. But what does EJ do when he gets it? He turns into Beasley World Cup '06 and passes it back and stunts any attack.
Wonderful start.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 08:53 PM
Hey Ives,
We're not Wynne haters, we just haven't accepted him as our personal right-back saviour.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 08:53 PM
And that's why!
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 08:54 PM
Wow, GolTV is broadcasting the game en ingles! (spelling?)
Very kind of them and I'm pumped!
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 08:55 PM
long time reader, first time commenter. I hope our boys hang tough.
Posted by: markovitch | June 28, 2007 at 08:56 PM
Wow... Argentina's attack is quick... nice clearance. Handled the corner pretty well too.
y... si... presente esta un palabra.
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 08:56 PM
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 08:56 PM
!PENAL! !PENAL! !PENAL!
PENALLLLLLLLLLLLTTTYYYYYY!!!!
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 08:56 PM
holy crap! penal! penal! penal!
penalteeee!
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 08:57 PM
And the best part? No LD kisses!
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 08:57 PM
WHAT!!!! Football gods are smiling today!
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 08:57 PM
Gol gol gol gol gol gol gol gol gol gol gol gol a USA!!!!!!
Posted by: Andy | June 28, 2007 at 08:58 PM
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!GGGGGOOOLLLLLLLLLAAAAAZZZOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 08:58 PM
GOL! GOL! GOL! GOL! GOL! GOL! GOOOOOOOOOOOL!
EJ slots it in the right bottom corner!
9th minute!
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 08:58 PM
OH MY GOD!!!!!!! EJJJJJJJJJJ!!!
Posted by: fcphillyboy19 | June 28, 2007 at 08:58 PM
omigosh!
Posted by: smokeminside | June 28, 2007 at 08:58 PM
EJ....onions!
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 08:58 PM
Ives called it earlier today with the early penalty kick! Way to go EJ!!!
Posted by: nutmegger | June 28, 2007 at 08:58 PM
Woooo!!!!
Now, play defensively, but don't bunker. 1-nil is NOT likely.
Posted by: NewsToTom | June 28, 2007 at 08:59 PM
Who sent that through pass to EJ? That was PERFECT.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 08:59 PM
Now that's how you take a PK!!!
Posted by: DCM | June 28, 2007 at 08:59 PM
Y el comentario en Telefutura se dice el golaso esta "suavecito"...
que perfecto, no?
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 08:59 PM
Beny played the ball through, Im 90% sure.
Posted by: fcphillyboy19 | June 28, 2007 at 08:59 PM
that foul was ridiculous....totally phantom
Posted by: smokeminside | June 28, 2007 at 08:59 PM
I'm in on the drinking game, and for the EJ pk draw/goal I shall shotgun a beer
Posted by: Steve | June 28, 2007 at 08:59 PM
WOW!!!!!!!!! That is all I can say.
Posted by: RS | June 28, 2007 at 09:00 PM
Well....
that didn't last long.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 09:00 PM
Hahahaha, well said Dom.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:01 PM
Did we not have time to gather that ball? What the hell happened?
Posted by: smokeminside | June 28, 2007 at 09:01 PM
Note that it was Wynne marking Crespo... (Yes, I'm keeping track)
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:01 PM
Oops... equalizer by Crespo... off the free kick... Kasey not off the line quick enough... bummer...
uno a uno... 12th minute.
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:01 PM
EJ & Ching = US Soccer Saviors!
Keller= Put to Pasture
Posted by: bump | June 28, 2007 at 09:02 PM
Free kick US... "juuuuuust a bit outside..."
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:02 PM
Is this game being shown on a delay? My brother said the MLS announcers said the score of the game was 1-1 before EJ even took the penalty.
Posted by: Dan | June 28, 2007 at 09:02 PM
You sure it was Wynne? He was on the near post, wandering around in the goal when Crespo scored. That'd be pretty weak going from marking Crespo to near post.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:03 PM
Well that didn't last long, HORRENDOUS marking
Posted by: Nico | June 28, 2007 at 09:03 PM
Crespo made the run across goal and Wynne didn't follow... In fact, he angled off and covered the near post after the ball was hit.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:03 PM
Wow, that is poor.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:04 PM
Can we fault Keller for not coming off his line on that free kick? Seems to have been a pile of bodies in the box to even get to that ball. But still, you would like ot see Keller do something besides stand there....
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 09:05 PM
GolTV is about 10 seconds behind the Univision.com fed
Posted by: DCM | June 28, 2007 at 09:06 PM
The boys look very organized, which should make this a tough game for Argentina. How do you make a team like this organized with like two days preparation? Amazing..
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:08 PM
BORRRRRRNNNNN Stein- Mexican American my A$$
Posted by: bump | June 28, 2007 at 09:08 PM
Ray Hudson! I knew he sounded familiar.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:08 PM
Keller WAS a bit slow off his line but... whoever was charged with covering Crespo -- Wynne? -- shoula been there...
The defense does look pretty organized so far.
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:10 PM
Way to go Mapp!
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:10 PM
GolTV is absolute Sh-t
Telefutura is where the partys at!
Posted by: bump | June 28, 2007 at 09:11 PM
I love Demerit! Go Green Bay!
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:11 PM
Argentina corner... cleared... ... oops... another corner... cleared... Guats on tha ball... sent in... and goal kick. whew...
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:11 PM
Why didn't that guy attack the goal...he was all alone...
Posted by: smokeminside | June 28, 2007 at 09:12 PM
Nice 1st touch from Wynne, can't afford to have any of those tonight.
Posted by: DCM | June 28, 2007 at 09:13 PM
Is it just me or is Bornstein giving "the next Diego" a bit of trouble?
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:15 PM
How did the US beat Messi and the U-20 Argentines a couple of years ago?
I guess in all fairness Argentina still won the whole thing. (am i right?)
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 09:15 PM
Yes, he is and I'll shut my heath pearce loving yapper if he keeps this up all game!
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:16 PM
Is there a more secure hold on a particular position on the U.S. team than Steve Cherundolo at RB? Does anybody have a telescope powerful enough to see his competition right now?
Posted by: NewsToTom | June 28, 2007 at 09:16 PM
Conrad is having a good game tonight
Posted by: Nath | June 28, 2007 at 09:17 PM
Bornstein keeps this up and he will have a passport to Europe in a couple of years.
Posted by: nutmegger | June 28, 2007 at 09:17 PM
When was the last time Eddie Johnson attempted to win a ball?
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:18 PM
I keep wondering how "El Inspector" became his nickname...
another foul on US... tho it seems to be pretty even on fouls.
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:18 PM
OK... that's one for Wynne
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:18 PM
it's fair to say the US attack is lost and has no direction right now.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 09:20 PM
Go USA!!!! you can do it!!!! we' re are looking foward to see you win!!! VE.
Posted by: Carlos V | June 28, 2007 at 09:21 PM
uh oh... falta... he called it on Argentina?! wow...
good chance for the US...
free kick about 25 yards out...
wide... le sigh...
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:21 PM
That free kick needs to be better.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:22 PM
Landon's still taking our free kicks...
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:22 PM
that looked like a favorable spot for the US. You know, if we had Ronaldinho.
Or a player even two levels less than him. But alas, nope, wasted chance. Didn't even put it on goal.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 09:22 PM
I think that's fair to say...
the games come to a standstill of sorts...
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:23 PM
Long live Jay DeMerit.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:23 PM
Demerit is rock solid... It's refreshing to see a center back with perfect positioning...
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:24 PM
When was the last time Eddie Money took on a defender? I get it, you're good at holding the ball up.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:27 PM
Nice run by EJ. But held up, didn't even try a 1-on-1....back pass. EVERYBODY DRINK!
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 09:27 PM
Demonios... EJ makes a run to the right side, a few passes, then... nothing...
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:28 PM
Is Twellman playing?
Posted by: Nath | June 28, 2007 at 09:28 PM
Argentina... moving around the box... pass to the right... shot... wide... didn't trouble Keller at all...
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:29 PM
Johnson better have been pushed, because otherwise that's a criminal waste of a chance.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:30 PM
Small drink or a chug? ;-)
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:30 PM
ouch... nothing like giving up a throw-in off your face...
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:31 PM
OK... That's a huge one for Wynne and Keller.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:32 PM
Keller with the denial! Not ready for pasture yet!
Posted by: nutmegger | June 28, 2007 at 09:32 PM
Ka-sey Kel-ler! (clap clap clapclapclap)
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:32 PM
Another Argentinan chance... off Keller and the cross bar...
getting nervous...
corner... sent in... cleared...
whew... 2 minutes plus minimal injury tome to half
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:32 PM
EJ looks awful, why is he so afraid?
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:33 PM
That's probably worth two drinks...
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:33 PM
Goddamn Eddie
Posted by: Dro Scott | June 28, 2007 at 09:33 PM
cmon johnson....can't do the same move each time!
Posted by: smokeminside | June 28, 2007 at 09:33 PM
He is literally intentionally not scoring goals.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:33 PM
USSF should hire EJ a shrink to help him get over his fear of wide open spaces.
Posted by: Tom B. | June 28, 2007 at 09:34 PM
Wow we actually made the goalie move
Posted by: DCM | June 28, 2007 at 09:35 PM
There we go, can't score if you don't shoot!
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:35 PM
free kick, US... about 40 yards out... short... shot! keeper takes it retty easily... aaaaaaaand...
halftime.
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:35 PM
1-1 halftime! we are no Colombia
Posted by: Nath | June 28, 2007 at 09:35 PM
Considering everything, that was a pretty good 1st half for the USofA
Posted by: DCM | June 28, 2007 at 09:36 PM
Messi just switched sides ... is he running away from Bornstein??
Posted by: Gabe79 | June 28, 2007 at 09:36 PM
WHERE IS MAPP????
Posted by: erik | June 28, 2007 at 09:36 PM
Ives, you're so right about Johnson...that last run made me crazy....
Posted by: smokeminside | June 28, 2007 at 09:37 PM
I know you don't want to use your subs too early, but is there *any* reason to send EJ out there for the second half?
Posted by: Bill | June 28, 2007 at 09:37 PM
hey, numbnuts, your timestamp is way off.
has the second half started yet?
Posted by: hugesoccerfan | June 28, 2007 at 09:37 PM
I think this counts as a huge success for both Bradley and the youngsters. Just think where we'd be if Donovan was receiving those balls rather than EJ!
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:37 PM
I agree Ives everytime Johnson gets near the penalty box he freezes up. I least try a shot!
Posted by: degerron | June 28, 2007 at 09:38 PM
Holy crap. If someone told me that our C Team would play in freaking Venezuela and be tied with Argentina at half time in the Copa America after the mid field and back four played their hearts out I would have punched them right in the face. Unbelievable.
Posted by: Nick | June 28, 2007 at 09:38 PM
All I have to say is:
Bradley is a hell of a coach....
Posted by: Tony M | June 28, 2007 at 09:38 PM
Agreed.... considering some were predicting a 5-0 win for Argentina...
but there's still 45 minutes.
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:38 PM
Twellman has to go to the bench. He is not doing anything
Posted by: Nath | June 28, 2007 at 09:38 PM
Where's Twellman been? We've been talking about Johnson but Twellman has been almost invisible.
Posted by: degerron | June 28, 2007 at 09:39 PM
For Bradley's next trick he is going to take a USL all-star team to North Korea to play Italy and win 4-0. Sunil must be thanking every god around for Mr. Jurgen turning down the job offer.
Posted by: Nick | June 28, 2007 at 09:40 PM
Even if it ends 5-1 Argentina, this was one great first half of US soccer. Our offense may not be clicking, but our counter-attacks could have been dangerous if not for EJ.
Although I'll give him credit. Sometimes when he falls down it's in the box and gets a call!
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:40 PM
The problem with Twellman is that he is very high maintenance. He needs a particular kind of service and lots of attention from his teammates. He gets plenty of it in New England. Not so much with the nats.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:40 PM
I think kpugs is right. He needs Donovan and Beasley supplying him balls to his feet in a quick inter-change. That's not going to happen with the Argentinian midfield. He's pretty much useless out there right now.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:41 PM
Well... LB over at sidelineviews predicted a 1-1 draw...
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:42 PM
The sad thing is, this is the perfect kind of game for EJ. In MLS he manages to do something with these long balls, but he's just too scared of failure right now.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:43 PM
Well said.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:43 PM
Herculez for Twellman
Posted by: Nath | June 28, 2007 at 09:43 PM
Telefutura announcer-Bracamontes-is impressed with Bornstein, says he's ready for Europe.
Posted by: vreleven | June 28, 2007 at 09:44 PM
now, can we stop sucking in the second half? come on, boys, you are shocking everyone, play fast and loose, and watch Argentina seize up as the day goes on...
I am a believer. someone give Bob Bradley a better contract. Bruce who?
Posted by: northzax | June 28, 2007 at 09:46 PM
Nick:
Your 9:40 post was classic.
Posted by: Tony M | June 28, 2007 at 09:47 PM
What a boring game. US playing pussy ball, ten men behind the ball, going for the draw. An experimental team that doesn't experiment. What a joke. I thought this tournament didn't matter? ha ha ha.
Whoever says this is even a B-team is an idiot. Demerit's our best defender, Mapp's probably our best natural winger, and Feilhaber might be our best all round player. And how they score? On a dive. And Argentina are the cheating culture? What a joke.
Posted by: Jed | June 28, 2007 at 09:48 PM
Agreed... Bravo, Nick, bravo.
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:49 PM
I don't know if I see enough out of our boys to win this game, but I am absolutely impressed with the first half! Our attack is pathetic even with our regulars, but that is no surprise!
Posted by: Jeff | June 28, 2007 at 09:49 PM
And the first post from someone who knows nothing about football is recorded at 9:48pm EST.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:50 PM
I can't wait to see the U20 world cup. If Altidore has a good tournament I say he's ready to get a chance on the national team. This is just a joke anymore.
Posted by: Jeff | June 28, 2007 at 09:51 PM
You'd have to say the best part is that Argentina certainly hasn't looked bad in the first half. They've been getting the runs and stringing the passes together but our defense has been rock solid.
And Jed, sometimes that's what it takes to win games.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:51 PM
What a half... USA looked shakey the first 10 min. then after EJ's penal and Argentina's answer they settled down and started to play great pressing soccer. Talk about destroying Argentina's play in the mid-field... Fitness and weather will determine if the boys can continue this. If they do nothing saying we aren't one counter attack away from stealing this one!
All I can say his holy sht!
Posted by: ag nigrin | June 28, 2007 at 09:52 PM
Just ask Greece, it won them the secont most prestigious tournament on the planet.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:52 PM
second*
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:52 PM
Someone keep that serving of crow on ice for Jed... just in case...
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:52 PM
EJ is doing alright holding up the ball (shocker) but someone needs to make a run off of him because it is quite obvious that he is not going to go to goal or shoot it himself.
Posted by: DCM | June 28, 2007 at 09:53 PM
Conrad Conrad!
Posted by: Nath | June 28, 2007 at 09:56 PM
Why the team is scare to death to bring the ball down the flank. Argentina isn't even bothering to defend our flanks b/c the US in only interested in back passes and semi long balls.
Posted by: degerron | June 28, 2007 at 09:57 PM
Eddie: see Mapp run. See Mapp run at defender.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 09:57 PM
Argentina pushing forward... this could turn out to be a nervewracking half...
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 09:58 PM
That was almost one against Wynne... He's lucky!
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 09:58 PM
Not an awful foul but might have been yellow on a different night, Cambiasso didn't play the ball.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:00 PM
another free kick... top of the box... "muy peligroso" se dice en Telfutura...
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 10:00 PM
If only someone here can bring out their inner Ronaldinho on this kick.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 10:00 PM
nope, still not on goal. Why not let Feilhaber take these?
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 10:01 PM
Where's Jed? No disdain for Argentina's longball tactics?
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:01 PM
Ouch... That could have been bad.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:03 PM
OK guys... we could use a little possesion!
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:04 PM
Aimar? Not that ANYONE on this squad is weak, but I'm glad it's not Tevez.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:05 PM
first substitution...
woah, yellow card!
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 10:05 PM
Yeah... that will be in five minutes...
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:06 PM
OK, I take that back. Feilhaber's last free kick was worse than LD's.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 10:06 PM
Wow Crespo almost broke that, great interception by Conrad.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:07 PM
Hudson is gushing over the American strikers.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:07 PM
Wide open right side! Use the width people.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:07 PM
Even EJ's forearm shiver is weak...
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 10:07 PM
That's two against Wynne... The Wynne factor is now at negative five and counting.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:09 PM
Nice Ives. "I'm not saying Taylor Twellman is useless, but Taylor Twellman is useless."
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:09 PM
Nice run by Messi, which player on the US pool could actually make a run like that during international play?
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 10:09 PM
Feilhaber appears to be everywhere. He is the one pressuring Messi when he breaks through. Go Benny!
Posted by: nutmegger | June 28, 2007 at 10:09 PM
Tell me that is not Gaven coming in?!
Posted by: degerron | June 28, 2007 at 10:09 PM
Wow, Olsen was holding the middle together, and now he's gone.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:10 PM
Yes... now our right side consists of Wynne and Gaven.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:10 PM
At least Argentina doesn't know that Gaven's a liability!
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:11 PM
Well let's hope that Gaven gives us width - if memory serves he tense to drift in.
Posted by: nutmegger | June 28, 2007 at 10:11 PM
Sorry... I spoke way too soon. TOO BAD Bradley. That was a mistake.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:12 PM
Good thing Gaven came in, otherwise who would have stood by and watched Messi start the play that resulted in the goal?
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:12 PM
Glad Gaven came in because that sequence started with his soft D!!
Posted by: DCM | June 28, 2007 at 10:12 PM
Eddie Gaven, get off the field.
Posted by: Dan | June 28, 2007 at 10:12 PM
THAT WAS ALL LIO MESSI.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 10:12 PM
Again Crespo loses his defender and the ball is in the back of the net.
Posted by: nutmegger | June 28, 2007 at 10:12 PM
I think Guzan would have ben able to stop that one but would want to be any keeper in that situation.
Posted by: degerron | June 28, 2007 at 10:12 PM
GOLASO! Argentina... dos a uno
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 10:13 PM
It's hard to see how we will be able to score an equalizer.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 10:14 PM
WOW... It's like our center backs are the anti-Gooch.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:15 PM
What the hell was Demerit doing?
or was that Conrad?
either way it almost cost a goal.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 10:15 PM
Agreed... and Argentina is definitely looking to put this one away.
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 10:15 PM
regardless we are playing better than expected.
Posted by: Nath | June 28, 2007 at 10:16 PM
Herculez, come on my man.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:16 PM
The problem now is that Bradley has failed again to recognize when defenders are getting tired and make the necessary subs. Olsen helped out alot on defense and with out him look whats starting to happen.
Posted by: degerron | June 28, 2007 at 10:16 PM
Herculez! Herculez!... heh
Posted by: Mexi-Kenn | June 28, 2007 at 10:16 PM
Now we actually have 2 people up front, come on Hercules doing something.
Posted by: DCM | June 28, 2007 at 10:17 PM
TT never gets a full game - he either gets 7 minutes at the end, of 60 up front. He didn't do anything today except win one foul, but still. He scores a lot at the end of games when Ds legs are too tired to jump.
Posted by: h4 | June 28, 2007 at 10:19 PM
I just don't get Olsen being subbed there. He and Bornstein had been our best players. Why wouldn't you take out Mapp, who had done nothing at all tonight?
Posted by: Andy | June 28, 2007 at 10:19 PM
Mapp HAS to do better than that junk.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 10:20 PM
I'm not conceding just yet...but at the absolute worst this match has given me plenty of reason to think we can advance out of the group stage.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:20 PM
Mapp is just lazy out there. He made no attempt to beat the man OR send in a decent cross. I would be happy if he never saw the field in a US jersey again. We have enough left sided players to leave him in Chicago.
Posted by: Andy | June 28, 2007 at 10:20 PM
Weak yellow, was there even contact? A late tackle that Leo jumped over.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:21 PM
Yeah... we're too tired to win this one right now. Argentina will get another on a break.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:21 PM
US is looking tired guys are starting to walk around out there.
Posted by: degerron | June 28, 2007 at 10:22 PM
Sorry to keep going back to the Olsen sub, but Kljestan and Beckerman, two players capable of playing similar to the destroyer role Benny was playing, were also available. What was Bob thinking?
Posted by: Andy | June 28, 2007 at 10:23 PM
Way to go Gaven **insert ironic clap here**
Proving that the Columbus Crew's backups aren't fit for the national team.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:23 PM
And then there's Eddie Gaven. His presence at the Copa is one of the greatest mysteries known to man.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:23 PM
Lee Nguyen please! Oh well, next game.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 10:23 PM
Hey Ives remember Nguyen has been in the States the last few months rehabing his shoulder. Other then that friendly he played in a few months ago he hasn't played in a competitive match since like December. He's just not match fit yet. I wouldn't be suprised if they bring him in at the 80 minute mark.
Posted by: degerron | June 28, 2007 at 10:25 PM
Wow
Posted by: DCM | June 28, 2007 at 10:25 PM
No more legs for this game.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 10:25 PM
Not sure how that ball was NOT cleared.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 10:26 PM
Ah... and the other suspect pick for the national team strikes again. Let's count that as three against Wynne just because it was so obvious and now the Wynne factor is at negative 8.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:26 PM
Nice clearing header, DeMerit. Or not.
Could Bornstein have switched sides when Messi did? Should he have?
Posted by: NewsToTom | June 28, 2007 at 10:26 PM
Dead legs, hope the US can hold it together these last 10+ minutes
Posted by: DCM | June 28, 2007 at 10:26 PM
The Olsen for Gaven sub is the opposite of the Pablo for Clark sub.
Posted by: degerron | June 28, 2007 at 10:27 PM
The Olsen for Gaven sub is the opposite of the Pablo for Clark sub.
Posted by: degerron | June 28, 2007 at 10:27 PM
Wynne... that's all I have to say. Why weren't you preventing the easy cross?
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:27 PM
Argentina waited until we got tired and then went for the jugular.
Posted by: Dan | June 28, 2007 at 10:28 PM
Dead legs, hope the US can kepp it together for these last 10 minutes.
Posted by: DCM | June 28, 2007 at 10:28 PM
Gaven fouled in a dangerous position for Argentina. That is something he is good at. But Benny's kick goes nowhere. We are really missing service tonight.
Posted by: nutmegger | June 28, 2007 at 10:28 PM
TEVEZ in! I can't it watch it anymore.
Posted by: Nath | June 28, 2007 at 10:28 PM
WHAT ARE THESE SUBS? Yeah, that was my head exploding... good thing I have been playing the proposed drinking game
Posted by: Steve | June 28, 2007 at 10:29 PM
I love Bob and won't crap on him or ask for him to be fired or anything like that. But this was not his best-managed game.
Let's look for a bounce-back match against Paraguay.
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:29 PM
Nice of Wynn to stand there and watch Heinze put in the cross on the goal. I'm sorry, but I have no patience for the kind of player who can't put in the effort at this level.How lazy can you be?
Posted by: Andy | June 28, 2007 at 10:29 PM
This makes two goals in two games in which Bornstein gets caught out and the US is punished by a goal. (Castillo to Guardado and now Messi to Crespo.) Maybe Pearce gets a chance next game.
Posted by: nutmegger | June 28, 2007 at 10:29 PM
Close the book on Mapp, Wynn and Johnson. These guys can't even see fit to hustle and try to make something happen out there. No excuse for laziness against Argentina, and its been from start to finish for those three.
Posted by: Andy | June 28, 2007 at 10:31 PM
Wasn't that a corner?
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:32 PM
Mapp's out there walking around. If you're tired, then run until you throw up. At least you make the blooper reel.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:32 PM
And yes, we are Colombia.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 10:33 PM
Goal! that's not right. This is ridiculous
Posted by: Nath | June 28, 2007 at 10:34 PM
This game went from a great match to a complete joke. How can I possibly be upbeat about this?
Posted by: kpugs | June 28, 2007 at 10:34 PM
I was just going to say that we didn't embarrass ourselves, but after that goal:(
Posted by: Dan | June 28, 2007 at 10:34 PM
Um.... who is supposed to be marking Tevez? Bornstein again?
Posted by: nutmegger | June 28, 2007 at 10:34 PM
Yes. We are Colombia.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 10:34 PM
Go easy on our defenders right now (even Wynne). The midfield has pretty much given up right now, so there's not much you can do.
Posted by: Braden | June 28, 2007 at 10:34 PM
At least Bornstein could have *chased* Tevez after he the pass.
Posted by: Bill | June 28, 2007 at 10:36 PM
EJ is a joke. No heart, no hussle.
Posted by: Steve T. | June 28, 2007 at 10:37 PM
One thing I never thought I'd say about the US team, but where's our fitness?
Posted by: Ajacied | June 28, 2007 at 10:37 PM
Two minutes to ending hell.
Posted by: Dominghosa | June 28, 2007 at 10:38 PM
This is like watching a bunch of scabs who crossed the picket line for a chance to play. Almost like watching an alternate universe where the players and US soccer never agreed on a contract before the world cup.
Posted by: nate | June 28, 2007 at 10:38 PM
I was thinking the same thing so much for superior fitness.
Posted by: degerron | June 28, 2007 at 10:40 PM
I watched GolTV and Ray Hudson gushed over Johnson, not sure what he was watching. Hey 4-1 stinks and they were overmatched in the second half but there were some moments and it was not as bad as I feared. Some of the bloggers here are over the edge, it was OK considering what we put on field.
Posted by: SIram | June 28, 2007 at 11:09 PM
ray hudson over exaggerates EVERYTHING. i htink this game would have been different if donovan was here. can we all boo him at the next galaxy game
Posted by: shaj | June 28, 2007 at 11:11 PM