Fasten your seatbelts AO, it's as big as it gets in CONCACAF Qualifying. What used to be a rivalry that involved back and forth wins... is still a rivalry. But the Mexican's have seen a '0' next to their point total all too often lately. With the exception of the Gold Cup Final, the Americans were 8-0-1 in their last 9 games versus their always-classy neighbors. Keep in mind that none of the starting 11 that faced Mexico in the GC Final will likely feature against them Wednesday. Mexico will likely play at least 5 of their starting 11, and will have to show their worth to get anything from this game.
The US visits Estadio Azteca on Wednesday hoping to secure their first win on Mexican soil. The Americans are 0-18-1 in WCQ in Mexico, but many US fans feel that this can be our year. Playing in front of 105,000 of Mexico's most elegant and tasteful supporters, Bob Bradley will have to show some his team still possess' that the composure that took them to the Confederation Cup final in South Africa two months ago. Bradley has named a very similar squad to that team that faced Brazil, with a few minor exceptions.
GK: Brad Guzan, Tim Howard
DEF: Carlos Bocanegra, Jonathan Bornstein, Steve Cherundolo, Jay DeMerit, Chad Marshall, Oguchi Onyewu, Jonathan Spector
MID: Michael Bradley, Ricardo Clark, Clint Dempsey, Benny Feilhaber, Stuart Holden , José Francisco Torres
FOR: Jozy Altidore, Conor Casey, Brian Ching, Charlie Davies, Landon Donovan
Javier Aguirre, Mexico's new skipper, simply defines the word " grace," leading by example on and off the pitch. One may wander what will happen when Landon Donovan goes racing down the wing in front of the Mexican bench. Will he swipe a leg? Perhaps toss a Dos Equis bottle. Or maybe throw a blood/urine-filled Ziploc? One thing is certain, this bandit will do what it takes to win. He is without the services of Rafael Marquez, the Barcelona defender missing through injury.
Can the American's prove their worth on this stage and grind out a result? That is the question. Altitude, heat, dangerous atmosphere... No excuses. We need to get points. A loss here will leave our dirty neighbors just 1 point behind us in qualifying, however, a win will all but secure our participation in 2010.
Let's get 3 points! This is what we have been waiting for. Get your drinks at your watch parties, tip your bartender, and raise your American flag after the victory.
This is our day. Come on boys!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
US Team Roster for 2009 Gold Cup
2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup Roster Facts and Figures
- Four players have appeared in a CONCACAF final round qualifying match.
- Eight of 23 players have appeared in a qualifying match for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
- Eight players have made at least one appearance in 2009.
- Seven players are seeking their first appearance for the U.S.
- 16 players have five or fewer caps.
- 15 of the 23 players ply their trade in Major League Soccer.
- The roster averages eight caps per player. By contrast, in the other two Gold Cups with 23-man rosters, the U.S. team averaged 26 caps/player (2007) and 28 caps/player (2005).
- Ching leads the roster with nine goals. All other players on the roster have scored a combined nine goals.
- Two players, Cherundolo and Conrad, have appeared in a FIFA World Cup match.
- Two players, Parkhurst and Ching, were on the 2007 Gold Cup champion team.
- Three players, Cherundolo, Conrad and Quaranta, were on the 2005 Gold Cup champion team.
- Five players were on the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team for the Beijing Games.
- The average age on the roster is 26, 1.2 years older than the U.S. squad at the FIFA Confederations Cup.
U.S. Men’s National Team Roster
2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup
July 3-26, 2009
| No. | Name | Pos. | Ht. | Wt. | Birthdate | Hometown | Club | Caps/G |
| 1 | Perkins, Troy | GK | 6-2 | 190 | 07/20/81 | Worthington, Ohio | Valerenga IF (Norway) | 1/0 |
| 2 | Pearce, Heath | D | 5-10 | 175 | 08/13/84 | Modesto, Calif. | Hansa Rostock (Germany) | 23/0 |
| 3 | Goodson, Clarence | D | 6-4 | 170 | 05/17/82 | Alexandria, Va. | IK Start (Norway) | 2/0 |
| 4 | Marshall, Chad | D | 6-4 | 190 | 08/22/84 | Riverside, Calif. | Columbus Crew | 4/1 |
| 5 | Beckerman, Kyle | M | 5-10 | 165 | 04/23/82 | Crofton, Md. | Real Salt Lake | 3/0 |
| 6 | Cherundolo, Steve | D | 5-6 | 145 | 02/19/79 | San Diego, Calif. | Hannover 96 (Germany) | 51/2 |
| 7 | Rogers, Robbie | M | 5-10 | 165 | 05/12/87 | Huntington Beach, Calif. | Columbus Crew | 1/0 |
| 8 | Pause, Logan | M | 5-10 | 155 | 08/22/81 | Hillsborough, N.C. | Chicago Fire | 0/0 |
| 9 | Davies, Charlie | F | 5-10 | 160 | 06/25/86 | Manchester, N.H. | Hammarby IF (Sweden) | 9/2 |
| 10 | Holden, Stuart | M | 5-10 | 160 | 08/01/85 | Houston, Texas | Houston Dynamo | 0/0 |
| 11 | Ching, Brian | F | 6-1 | 195 | 05/24/78 | Haleiwa, Hawaii | Houston Dynamo | 36/9 |
| 12 | Conrad, Jimmy | D | 6-2 | 185 | 02/12/77 | Temple City, Calif. | Kansas City Wizards | 24/1 |
| 13 | Clark, Colin | M | 5-11 | 161 | 04/11/84 | Ft. Collins, Colo. | Colorado Rapids | 0/0 |
| 14 | Parkhurst, Michael | D | 5-11 | 155 | 01/24/84 | Providence, R.I. | FC Nordsjaelland (Denmark) | 5/0 |
| 15 | Cronin, Sam | M | 5-10 | 165 | 12/12/86 | Winston-Salem, N.C. | Toronto FC | 0/0 |
| 16 | Heaps, Jay | D | 5-9 | 155 | 08/02/76 | Longmeadow, Mass. | New England Revolution | 0/0 |
| 17 | Cooper, Kenny | F | 6-3 | 210 | 10/21/84 | Dallas, Texas | FC Dallas | 4/2 |
| 18 | Robles, Luis | GK | 6-1 | 180 | 05/11/84 | Fort Huachuca, Ariz. | FC Kaiserslautern (Germany) | 0/0 |
| 19 | Adu, Freddy | F | 5-8 | 140 | 06/02/89 | Potomac, Md. | AS Monaco (France) | 13/1 |
| 20 | Quaranta, Santino | F | 6-1 | 185 | 10/14/84 | Baltimore, Md. | D.C. United | 11/0 |
| 21 | Evans, Brad | M | 6-1 | 160 | 04/20/85 | Phoenix, Ariz. | Seattle Sounders | 0/0 |
| 22 | Arnaud, Davy | M | 6-0 | 165 | 06/22/80 | Nederland, Texas | Kansas City Wizards | 2/0 |
| 23 | Busch, Jon | GK | 5-10 | 165 | 08/18/76 | Albany, N.Y. | Chicago Fire | 1/0 |
U.S. ROSTER BY POSITION
GOALKEEPERS (3): Jon Busch (Chicago Fire), Troy Perkins (IK Start), Luis Robles (FC Kaiserslautern)
DEFENDERS (7): Steve Cherundolo (Hannover 96), Jimmy Conrad (Kansas City Wizards), Clarence Goodson (IK Start), Jay Heaps (New England Revolution), Chad Marshall (Columbus Crew), Michael Parkhurst (FC Nordsjaellands), Heath Pearce (Hansa Rostock)
MIDFIELDERS (8): Davy Arnaud (Kansas City Wizards), Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Colin Clark (Colorado Rapids), Sam Cronin (Toronto FC), Brad Evans (Seattle Sounders), Stuart Holden (Houston Dynamo), Logan Pause (Chicago Fire), Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew)
FORWARDS (5): Freddy Adu (AS Monaco), Brian Ching (Houston Dynamo), Kenny Cooper (FC Dallas), Charlie Davies (Hammarby IF), Santino Quaranta (D.C. United)
U.S. MEN’S NATIONAL TEAM STAFF
Head Coach: Bob Bradley (Manhattan Beach, Calif.)
Assistant Coach: Mike Sorber (St. Louis)
Assistant Coach: John Hackworth (Bradenton, Fla.)
Goalkeeper Coach: Zak Abdel (Laverne, Calif.)
Fitness Coach: Pierre Barrieu (Redondo Beach, Calif.)
General Manager: Pam Perkins (Redondo Beach, Calif.)
Trainers: Ivan Pierra (Los Angeles), Dave Andrews (Seattle), Jim Bollinger (Philadephia), Kevin Sells (Los Angeles)
Doctors: Mike Morris (Seattle), Arthur Bartolozzi (Philadephia), Adam Bennett (Chicago)
Chiropractor: George Billauer (Los Angeles)
Equipment Manager: Tim Cook (Hermosa Beach, Calif.)
Videographer: Alejandro Becker (Hollywood, Calif.)
Video Coordinator: Mark Liskevych (Chicago)
Press Officer: Michael Kammarman (Chicago)
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Confed Cup Scouting Report
Confederation Cup 2009
South Africa
Bob Bradley will get his chance to flex his muscles against a set of top teams on the international stage when the US prepares to face Italy, Brazil, and Egypt in the upcoming 2 weeks. Coming off an impressive come-from-behind victory against Honduras last weekend at Soldier Field, the Nats will see what they are truly made of against the worlds' best.
We were headed towards a repeat of Costa Rica on Saturday when Carlos Costly scored inside the first 10 minutes. But the boys rallied with goals from Landon Donovan and Carlos Bocanegra to secure 3 points and another priceless qualifying win. Sloppy? Maybe. But, then again many CONCACAF Qualifiers tend to migrate in that direction. We dominated play after the opening moments, and stunned the largely Honduran crowd to put us in the driving seat of our own fate in qualifying. But, the focus has turned from qualifying for next summers' biggest stage to a Confederation Cup that lets teams set the tone for the World Cup in June. Bradley selected a side that you have to think will be very close to that team that will travel a year from now.
GK: Brad Guzan (Aston Villa, England), Tim Howard (Everton, England), Luis Robles (Kaiserslautern, Germany)
DEF: Carlos Bocanegra (Rennes, France), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Danny Califf (Midtjylland, Denmark), Jay DeMerit (Watford, England), Oguchi Onyewu (Standard Liege, Belgium), Heath Pearce (Hansa Rostock, Germany), Jonathan Spector (West Ham United, England), Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC)
MID: Freddy Adu (AS Monaco, France), DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers, Scotland), Michael Bradley (Borussia Monchengladbach, Germany), Ricardo Clark (Houston Dynamo), Benny Feilhaber (Aarhus, Denmark), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Jose Francisco Torres (Pachuca, Mexico)
FOR: Jozy Altidore (Xerez, Spain), Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids), Charlie Davies (Hammarby, Sweden), Clint Dempsey (Fulham, England), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy)
First, Bradley & Co. face the overwhelming test against the defending World Cup Champions, Italy. Any American fan will surely recall our last meeting in Germany, where we came from behind to draw 1-1 with 9 men, truly a fantastic moment in US Soccer. We also couldn't forget the nasty, nasty behavior of the Azurri in Kaiserslautern. Danielle De Rossi's vicious elbow on McBride's precious eye has forever stamped a place in the mind of US fans, and we will be looking to show that 1-1 is just a taste of what we can produce. Diving, spitting, shit-talking, and various other outlandish behavior is to be expected from the dirty Europeans. The strong line-up suggests that Lippi will not be in a generous mood.
GK: Amelia (Palermo), Buffon (Juventus), De Sanctis (Galatasaray).
DEF: Cannavaro (Juventus), Chiellini (Juventus), Dossena (Liverpool), Gamberini (Fiorentina), Grosso (Lione), Legrottaglie (Juventus), Santon (Inter), Zambrotta (Milan).
MID: Camoranesi (Juventus), De Rossi (Roma), Gattuso (Milan), Montolivo (Fiorentina), Palombo (Sampdoria), Pirlo (Milan).
FOR: Gilardino (Fiorentina), Iaquinta (Juventus), Pepe (Udinese), Quagliarella (Napoli), Rossi (Villarreal), Toni (Bayern Monaco).
Next, the Americans face the most decorated club in this event, along with the World Cup, Brazil. Obviously, Brazil could be labeled as the World's best team, but recent results show otherwise. Consistency is the major issue with the South American's, who seem to be struggling themselves in qualification. But, coming off a 4-0 win against Uruguay, the Brazilian's will not be lacking confidence. With names like Robinho, Gilberto Silva, Luis Fabiano on your team sheet, you can't rightfully say that they aren't talented. Considering the competition that this club has for squad, expect them to come out with an attacking mentality.
GK: Julio Cesar (Inter Milan), Gomes (Tottenham Hotspur), Victor (Gremio)
DEF: Maicon (Inter Milan), Daniel Alves (Barcelona), Alex (Chelsea), Juan (AS Roma), Lucio (Bayern Munich), Luisao (Benfica), Kleber (Internacional), Andre Santos (Corinthians).
MID: Anderson (Manchester United), Gilberto Silva (Panathinaikos), Josue (VfL Wolfsburg), Ramires (Cruzeiro), Elano (Manchester City), Felipe Melo (Fiorentina), Julio Baptista (AS Roma), Kaka (AC Milan)
FOR: Alexandre Pato (AC Milan), Luis Fabiano (Sevilla), Nilmar (Internacional), Robinho (Manchester City)
Lastly, with perhaps our best chance for 3 points, we face Egypt. People seem to be count out the Egyptians, but make no mistake that this team has excellent attacking options. One name that is surely to make an impact, is that of Mohamed Zidan. The Borussia Dortmund striker has put in some impressive performances in the Bundesliga. This tricky fixture will, figures crosses, will not be a consolation for the US.
GK: Essam Al Hadari (Sion, Switzerland), Abdul Wahed Al Sayed (El Zamalek), Mohamed Sobhi (Ismaily), Al Hani Soliman (El-Ittihad Alexandria)
DEF: Hani Said (El Zamalek), Mahmoud Fathallah (El Zamalek), Wael Gomaa (Al-Ahly), Sherif Abdul Fadhil (Ismaily), Ahmed Said (Haras El Hodood), Ahmed Al Muhammadi (ENPPI), Sayed Moawad (Al Ahly), Hazem Emam (El Zamalek), Ahmed Samir Farag (Ismaily)
MID: Ahmed Fathi (Al Ahly), Mohamed Shawki (Middlesbrough, England), Hosni Abd Rabu (Al Ahli Dubai, United Arab Emirates), Ahmed Khairy (Ismaily), Mohamed Soliman (Ismaily), Abdul Aziz Tawfiq (ENPPI), Ahmed Hassan (Al Ahly), Mohamed Aboutrika (Al Ahly)
FOR: Ahmed Eid (Haras El Hodood), Mohamed Zidan (Boroussia Dortmund, Germany), Mohamed Abougreisha (Ismaily), Ahmed Abdul Ghani (Haras El Hodood), Ahmed Raouf (ENPPI), Ihab Al Masri (Arab Contractors), Mohamed Mohsen Abou-Grisha (Ismaily)
This, for much of the US squad, is the chance for the US to stamp their places in the side. Obviously names like Onyewu, Bocanegra, Donovan, Dempsey, and Howard have their spots all but secured. Other names like Feilhaber, Bornstein, Beasley, and Clark will have something to prove. We realistically should expect 3 points against Egypt, and a result from the other 2 matches would be an uplift. This is a true test of Bradley's willingness to experiment and establish the best team possible. We have done well against these teams in years past, and with the whole world watching, should be up for these games.
Drink to ease your nerves if you must, that's what we do. That's the way we like it.
Come on US. Let's do this shit!
South Africa
Bob Bradley will get his chance to flex his muscles against a set of top teams on the international stage when the US prepares to face Italy, Brazil, and Egypt in the upcoming 2 weeks. Coming off an impressive come-from-behind victory against Honduras last weekend at Soldier Field, the Nats will see what they are truly made of against the worlds' best.
We were headed towards a repeat of Costa Rica on Saturday when Carlos Costly scored inside the first 10 minutes. But the boys rallied with goals from Landon Donovan and Carlos Bocanegra to secure 3 points and another priceless qualifying win. Sloppy? Maybe. But, then again many CONCACAF Qualifiers tend to migrate in that direction. We dominated play after the opening moments, and stunned the largely Honduran crowd to put us in the driving seat of our own fate in qualifying. But, the focus has turned from qualifying for next summers' biggest stage to a Confederation Cup that lets teams set the tone for the World Cup in June. Bradley selected a side that you have to think will be very close to that team that will travel a year from now.
GK: Brad Guzan (Aston Villa, England), Tim Howard (Everton, England), Luis Robles (Kaiserslautern, Germany)
DEF: Carlos Bocanegra (Rennes, France), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Danny Califf (Midtjylland, Denmark), Jay DeMerit (Watford, England), Oguchi Onyewu (Standard Liege, Belgium), Heath Pearce (Hansa Rostock, Germany), Jonathan Spector (West Ham United, England), Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC)
MID: Freddy Adu (AS Monaco, France), DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers, Scotland), Michael Bradley (Borussia Monchengladbach, Germany), Ricardo Clark (Houston Dynamo), Benny Feilhaber (Aarhus, Denmark), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Jose Francisco Torres (Pachuca, Mexico)
FOR: Jozy Altidore (Xerez, Spain), Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids), Charlie Davies (Hammarby, Sweden), Clint Dempsey (Fulham, England), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy)
First, Bradley & Co. face the overwhelming test against the defending World Cup Champions, Italy. Any American fan will surely recall our last meeting in Germany, where we came from behind to draw 1-1 with 9 men, truly a fantastic moment in US Soccer. We also couldn't forget the nasty, nasty behavior of the Azurri in Kaiserslautern. Danielle De Rossi's vicious elbow on McBride's precious eye has forever stamped a place in the mind of US fans, and we will be looking to show that 1-1 is just a taste of what we can produce. Diving, spitting, shit-talking, and various other outlandish behavior is to be expected from the dirty Europeans. The strong line-up suggests that Lippi will not be in a generous mood.
GK: Amelia (Palermo), Buffon (Juventus), De Sanctis (Galatasaray).
DEF: Cannavaro (Juventus), Chiellini (Juventus), Dossena (Liverpool), Gamberini (Fiorentina), Grosso (Lione), Legrottaglie (Juventus), Santon (Inter), Zambrotta (Milan).
MID: Camoranesi (Juventus), De Rossi (Roma), Gattuso (Milan), Montolivo (Fiorentina), Palombo (Sampdoria), Pirlo (Milan).
FOR: Gilardino (Fiorentina), Iaquinta (Juventus), Pepe (Udinese), Quagliarella (Napoli), Rossi (Villarreal), Toni (Bayern Monaco).
Next, the Americans face the most decorated club in this event, along with the World Cup, Brazil. Obviously, Brazil could be labeled as the World's best team, but recent results show otherwise. Consistency is the major issue with the South American's, who seem to be struggling themselves in qualification. But, coming off a 4-0 win against Uruguay, the Brazilian's will not be lacking confidence. With names like Robinho, Gilberto Silva, Luis Fabiano on your team sheet, you can't rightfully say that they aren't talented. Considering the competition that this club has for squad, expect them to come out with an attacking mentality.
GK: Julio Cesar (Inter Milan), Gomes (Tottenham Hotspur), Victor (Gremio)
DEF: Maicon (Inter Milan), Daniel Alves (Barcelona), Alex (Chelsea), Juan (AS Roma), Lucio (Bayern Munich), Luisao (Benfica), Kleber (Internacional), Andre Santos (Corinthians).
MID: Anderson (Manchester United), Gilberto Silva (Panathinaikos), Josue (VfL Wolfsburg), Ramires (Cruzeiro), Elano (Manchester City), Felipe Melo (Fiorentina), Julio Baptista (AS Roma), Kaka (AC Milan)
FOR: Alexandre Pato (AC Milan), Luis Fabiano (Sevilla), Nilmar (Internacional), Robinho (Manchester City)
Lastly, with perhaps our best chance for 3 points, we face Egypt. People seem to be count out the Egyptians, but make no mistake that this team has excellent attacking options. One name that is surely to make an impact, is that of Mohamed Zidan. The Borussia Dortmund striker has put in some impressive performances in the Bundesliga. This tricky fixture will, figures crosses, will not be a consolation for the US.
GK: Essam Al Hadari (Sion, Switzerland), Abdul Wahed Al Sayed (El Zamalek), Mohamed Sobhi (Ismaily), Al Hani Soliman (El-Ittihad Alexandria)
DEF: Hani Said (El Zamalek), Mahmoud Fathallah (El Zamalek), Wael Gomaa (Al-Ahly), Sherif Abdul Fadhil (Ismaily), Ahmed Said (Haras El Hodood), Ahmed Al Muhammadi (ENPPI), Sayed Moawad (Al Ahly), Hazem Emam (El Zamalek), Ahmed Samir Farag (Ismaily)
MID: Ahmed Fathi (Al Ahly), Mohamed Shawki (Middlesbrough, England), Hosni Abd Rabu (Al Ahli Dubai, United Arab Emirates), Ahmed Khairy (Ismaily), Mohamed Soliman (Ismaily), Abdul Aziz Tawfiq (ENPPI), Ahmed Hassan (Al Ahly), Mohamed Aboutrika (Al Ahly)
FOR: Ahmed Eid (Haras El Hodood), Mohamed Zidan (Boroussia Dortmund, Germany), Mohamed Abougreisha (Ismaily), Ahmed Abdul Ghani (Haras El Hodood), Ahmed Raouf (ENPPI), Ihab Al Masri (Arab Contractors), Mohamed Mohsen Abou-Grisha (Ismaily)
This, for much of the US squad, is the chance for the US to stamp their places in the side. Obviously names like Onyewu, Bocanegra, Donovan, Dempsey, and Howard have their spots all but secured. Other names like Feilhaber, Bornstein, Beasley, and Clark will have something to prove. We realistically should expect 3 points against Egypt, and a result from the other 2 matches would be an uplift. This is a true test of Bradley's willingness to experiment and establish the best team possible. We have done well against these teams in years past, and with the whole world watching, should be up for these games.
Drink to ease your nerves if you must, that's what we do. That's the way we like it.
Come on US. Let's do this shit!
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
US Roster for Confederations Cup
U.S. Men's National Team Roster
2009 FIFA Confederations Cup
June 14-28, 2009 - South Africa
2009 FIFA Confederations Cup
June 14-28, 2009 - South Africa
| No. | Player Name | Pos. | Ht. | Wt. | Birthdate | Hometown | Club | Caps/G |
| 1 | Howard, Tim | GK | 6-3 | 210 | 03/06/1979 | North Brunswick, N.J. | Everton FC (England) | 39/0 |
| 2 | Bornstein, Jonathan | D | 5-9 | 145 | 11/07/1984 | Los Alamitos, Calif. | Chivas USA | 15/1 |
| 3 | Bocanegra, Carlos | D | 6-0 | 170 | 05/25/1979 | Alta Loma, Calif. | Stade Rennais (France) | 67/11 |
| 4 | Casey, Conor | F | 6-1 | 170 | 07/25/1981 | Denver, Colo. | Colorado Rapids (MLS) | 10/0 |
| 5 | Onyewu, Oguchi | D | 6-4 | 210 | 05/13/1982 | Olney, Md. | Standard de Liege (Belgium) | 42/5 |
| 6 | Pearce, Heath | D | 5-10 | 175 | 08/13/1984 | Modesto, Calif. | Hansa Rostock (Germany) | 23/0 |
| 7 | Beasley, DaMarcus | M | 5-8 | 145 | 05/24/1982 | Ft. Wayne, Ind. | Glasgow Rangers (Scotland) | 87/17 |
| 8 | Dempsey, Clint | F | 6-1 | 170 | 03/09/1983 | Nacogdoches, Texas | Fulham FC (England) | 51/13 |
| 9 | Davies, Charlie | F | 5-10 | 160 | 06/25/1986 | Manchester, N.H. | Hammarby IF (Sweden) | 6/1 |
| 10 | Donovan, Landon | F | 5-8 | 150 | 03/04/1982 | Redlands, Calif. | Los Angeles Galaxy | 110/39 |
| 11 | Wynne, Marvell | D | 5-9 | 170 | 05/08/1986 | Poway, Calif. | Toronto FC | 3/0 |
| 12 | Bradley, Michael | M | 6-2 | 175 | 07/31/1987 | Manhattan Beach, Calif. | Borussia M'gladbach (Germany) | 29/5 |
| 13 | Clark, Ricardo | M | 5-10 | 150 | 05/10/1983 | Jonesboro, Ga. | Houston Dynamo (MLS) | 19/1 |
| 14 | Califf, Danny | D | 6-1 | 175 | 03/17/1980 | Orange, Calif | FC Midtjylland (Denmark) | 23/1 |
| 15 | DeMerit, Jay | D | 6-0 | 185 | 12/04/1979 | Green Bay, Wis. | Watford FC (England) | 10/0 |
| 16 | Kljestan, Sacha | M | 6-1 | 150 | 09/09/1985 | Huntington Beach, Calif. | Chivas USA | 17/3 |
| 17 | Altidore, Jozy | F | 6-1 | 175 | 11/06/1989 | Boca Raton, Fla. | Xerez C.D. (Spain) | 11/6 |
| 18 | Guzan, Brad | GK | 6-4 | 210 | 09/09/1984 | Homer Glen, Ill. | Aston Villa FC (England) | 12/0 |
| 19 | Adu, Freddy | M | 5-8 | 140 | 06/02/1989 | Potomac, Md. | AS Monaco (France) | 13/1 |
| 20 | Torres, José Francisco | M | 5-7 | 135 | 10/29/1987 | Longview, Texas | C.D. Pachuca (Mexico) | 5/0 |
| 21 | Spector, Jonathan | D | 6-0 | 180 | 03/01/1986 | Arlington Heights, Ill. | West Ham United (England) | 13/0 |
| 22 | Feilhaber, Benny | M | 5-9 | 150 | 01/19/1985 | Irvine, Calif. | AGF Aarhus (Denmark) | 17/2 |
| 23 | Robles, Luis | GK | 6-1 | 180 | 05/11/1984 | Fort Huachuca, Ariz. | FC Kaiserslautern (Germany) | 0/0 |
U.S. ROSTER BY POSITION
GOALKEEPERS (3): Brad Guzan (Aston Villa), Tim Howard (Everton), Luis Robles (Kaiserslautern)
DEFENDERS (8): Carlos Bocanegra (Rennes), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Danny Califf (Midtjylland ), Jay DeMerit (Watford), Oguchi Onyewu (Standard de Liege), Heath Pearce (Hansa Rostock), Jonathan Spector (West Ham United), Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC)
MIDFIELDERS (7): Freddy Adu (AS Monaco), DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers), Michael Bradley (Borussia Mönchengladbach), Ricardo Clark (Houston Dynamo), Benny Feilhaber (Aarhus), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), José Francisco Torres (Pachuca)
FORWARDS (5): Jozy Altidore (Xerez), Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids), Charlie Davies (Hammarby), Clint Dempsey (Fulham), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy)
U.S. MEN’S NATIONAL TEAM STAFF
Head Coach: Bob Bradley (Manhattan Beach, Calif.)
Assistant Coach: Mike Sorber (St. Louis)
Assistant Coach: John Hackworth (Bradenton, Fla.)
Goalkeeper Coach: Zak Abdel (Laverne, Calif.)
Fitness Coach: Pierre Barrieu (Redondo Beach, Calif.)
General Manager: Pam Perkins (Redondo Beach, Calif.)
Trainers: Ivan Pierra (Los Angeles), Jim Bollinger (Philadelphia)
Doctor: Michael Gerhardt (Manhattan Beach, Calif.)
Chiropractor: George Billauer (Los Angeles)
Equipment Manager: Tim Cook (Hermosa Beach, Calif.)
Video/Content Coordinator: Mark Liskevych (Chicago)
Videographer: Alejandro Becker (Hollywood, Calif.)
Press Officer: Michael Kammarman (Chicago)
U.S. Men’s National Team 2009 Schedule
| Date | Opponent | Time / Result | TV / U.S. Goal Scorer(s) | Venue; City |
| Jan. 24 | Sweden | 3-2 W | Kljestan (3) | The Home Depot Center; Carson, Calif. |
| Feb. 11 | Mexico* | 2-0 W | Bradley (2) | Columbus Crew Stadium; Columbus, Ohio |
| March 28 | El Salvador* | 2-2 T | Altidore, Hejduk | Estadio Cuscatlán; San Salvador, El Salvador |
| April 1 | Trinidad & Tobago* | 3-0 W | Altidore (3) | LP Field; Nashville, Tenn. |
| June 3 | Costa Rica* | 1-3 L | Donovan | Estadio Ricardo Saprissa; San Jose, Costa Rica |
| June 6 | Honduras* | 2-1 W | Donovan, Bocanegra | Soldier Field; Chicago, Ill. |
| June 15 | Italy # | 8:30 p.m. / 2:30 p.m. ET | ESPN | Loftus Versfeld; Tshwane/Pretoria |
| June 18 | Brazil # | 4 p.m. / 10 a.m. ET | ESPN2 | Loftus Versfeld; Tshwane/Pretoria |
| June 21 | Egypt # | 8:30 p.m. / 2:30 p.m. ET | ESPN2 | Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace; Rustenburg |
| July 4 | Grenada ^ | 6 p.m. PT | TBD | Qwest Field; Seattle, Wash. |
| July 8 | Honduras ^ | 9 p.m. ET | TBD | RFK Stadium; Washingon, D.C. |
| July 11 | Haiti ^ | 7 p.m. ET | TBD | Gillette Stadium; Foxborough, Mass. |
| Aug. 12 | Mexico* | TBD | TBD | Away (Venue TBD) |
| Sept. 5 | El Salvador* | 5:30 p.m. MT | ESPN Classic/Galavision | Rio Tinto Stadium; Sandy, Utah |
| Sept. 9 | Trinidad & Tobago* | 7 p.m. ET | ESPN Classic/Galavision | Away (Venue TBD) |
| Oct. 10 | Honduras* | TBD | TBD | Away (Venue TBD) |
| Oct. 14 | Costa Rica* | TBD | ESPN2/Galavision | RFK Stadium; Washington, D.C. |
Thursday, June 4, 2009
3-1 drubbing from Costa Rica at Home
Supporters,
As I write today I am pretty humbled. Last nights match had an eerie feel to it, we were out-matched out-hustled and out-coached in my opinion. I really haven't been more dejected, disgusted with effort, or felt more helpless since the opening game of Germany 06 against the smelly Czechs. Every step we took was wrong, every ball we played was weak. We were in front of a hostile crowd and didn't even make it 80 seconds into the match, in all honesty, we simply panicked. That was not the US side that I know and follow all over the world. THESE THINGS NEED TO BE ADDRESSED AND FIXED BEFORE AFRICA, not to throw a wrench into your travel plans but if we don't address and figure some of this shit out immediately, you will need to change your flights to South Africa June 09, not June 2010.
With this said, I (as a US supporter till the day I die) will assume that we needed this. The passion, grit, and heart that we played with after the Czechs against the Italians was magnificent, quite frankly it was one of the best nights of my life. I suspect that we will bounce back and run the home table on the way to Africa 2010. I love our yanks, they will not let us down like that again. They have too much spirit, too much pride for our country, too much dedication to the true fans out there . I will see all of the outlaws in Chicago tomorrow night to begin the festivities. Anyone not making the trip for the Honduras game, I wish you were there, we will be extra fucking loud for those that aren't, and chances are I will have way too many beers and will be celebrating late in Saturday.
Cheers outlaws,
Zach Stivrins
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
American Outlaws Podcast Series - Episode 1
The American Outlaws Podcast, with passionate fans, regular fans, ranting about US Soccer, and anything related to US Soccer.
theamericanoutlaws.com/AO%20Podcast%20Series/American%20Outlaws%20Podcast%20-%20May%202009.m4a
Korey Donahoo & Chris Donahoo
Hosted by: Zach Stivrins
Produced by: Brunken
American Outlaws Podcast Series will be available for download on Itunes soon. Make sure to subscribe when it gets up on Itunes.
(We will let you know)
Previously Recorded May 9th, 2009
--Bear with us on this podcast, quality of sound will improve and music will be added for future AO podcasts.
theamericanoutlaws.com/AO%20Podcast%20Series/American%20Outlaws%20Podcast%20-%20May%202009.m4a
Korey Donahoo & Chris Donahoo
Hosted by: Zach Stivrins
Produced by: Brunken
American Outlaws Podcast Series will be available for download on Itunes soon. Make sure to subscribe when it gets up on Itunes.
(We will let you know)
Previously Recorded May 9th, 2009
--Bear with us on this podcast, quality of sound will improve and music will be added for future AO podcasts.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Bradley's 24 Man Roster for June Qualifiers
U.S. Men's National Team Roster vs. Costa Rica and Honduras
May 26-June 6, 2009
Players Pos. Ht. Wt. Birthdate Hometown Club Caps/Goals
Adu, Freddy M 5-8 140 06/02/89 Potomac, Md. AS Monaco (France) 12/1
Altidore, Jozy F 6-1 175 11/06/89 Boca Raton, Fla. Xerez C.D. (Spain) 9/6
Beasley, DaMarcus M 5-8 145 05/24/82 Ft. Wayne, Ind. Glasgow Rangers (Scotland) 85/17
Bocanegra, Carlos D 6-0 170 05/25/79 Alta Loma, Calif. Stade Rennais (France) 65/10
Bornstein, Jonathan D 5-9 145 11/07/84 Los Alamitos, Calif. Chivas USA 14/1
Bradley, Michael M 6-2 175 07/31/87 Manhattan Beach, Calif. Borussia Mönchengladbach (Germany) 28/5
Califf, Danny D 6-1 175 03/17/80 Orange, Calif FC Midtjylland (Denmark) 23/1
Ching, Brian F 6-1 195 05/24/78 Haleiwa, Hawaii Houston Dynamo 36/9
Davies, Charlie F 5-10 160 06/25/86 Manchester, N.H. Hammarby IF (Sweden) 5/1
DeMerit, Jay D 6-0 185 12/04/79 Green Bay, Wis. Watford FC (England) 9/1
Dempsey, Clint F 6-1 170 03/09/83 Nacogdoches, Texas Fulham FC (England) 49/13
Donovan, Landon F 5-8 150 03/04/82 Redlands, Calif. Los Angeles Galaxy 108/37
Edu, Maurice M 6-0 170 04/18/86 Fontana, Calif. Glasgow Rangers (Scotland) 11/1
Feilhaber, Benny M 5-9 150 01/19/85 Irvine, Calif. AGF Aarhus (Denmark) 16/2
Guzan, Brad GK 6-4 210 09/09/84 Homer Glen, Ill. Aston Villa FC (England) 12/1
Hejduk, Frankie D 5-8 155 08/05/74 Cardiff, Calif. Columbus Crew 84/7
Howard, Tim GK 6-3 210 03/06/79 North Brunswick, N.J. Everton FC (England) 37/0
Mastroeni, Pablo M 5-10 170 8/26/1976 Phoenix, Ariz. Colorado Rapids 63/0
Kljestan, Sacha M 6-1 150 09/09/85 Huntington Beach, Calif. Chivas USA 16/3
Onyewu, Oguchi D 6-4 210 05/13/82 Olney, Md. Standard de Liege (Belgium) 40/5
Pearce, Heath D 5-10 175 08/13/84 Modesto, Calif. Hansa Rostock (Germany) 23/0
Spector, Jonathan D 6-0 180 03/01/86 Arlington Heights, Ill. West Ham United (England) 12/1
Torres, José Francisco M 5-7 135 10/29/87 Longview, Texas C.D. Pachuca (Mexico) 4/1
Wynne, Marvell D 5-9 170 05/08/86 Poway, Calif. Toronto FC 2/1
U.S. ROSTER BY POSITION
GOALKEEPERS (2): Brad Guzan (Aston Villa: 5/3 SO), Tim Howard (Everton: 9/7 SO)
DEFENDERS (9): Carlos Bocanegra (Rennes: 19/2), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA: 1/0), Danny Califf (Midtjylland: 4/0), Jay DeMerit (Watford: 1/0), Frankie Hejduk (Columbus Crew: 17/2), Oguchi Onyewu (Standard de Liege: 14/1), Heath Pearce (Hansa Rostock: 9/0), Jonathan Spector (West Ham United: 2/1), Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC: 0/0)
MIDFIELDERS (8): Freddy Adu (Monaco: 5/1), DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers: 24/6), Michael Bradley (Borussia Mönchengladbach: 9/4), Maurice Edu (Rangers: 4/0), Benny Feilhaber (Aarhus: 0/0), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA: 9/0), Pablo Mastroeni (Colorado Rapids: 13/0), José Francisco Torres (Pachuca: 4/0)
FORWARDS (5): Jozy Altidore (Xerez: 6/5), Brian Ching (Houston Dynamo: 15/6), Charlie Davies (Hammarby: 1/1), Clint Dempsey (Fulham: 15/4), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy: 28/9)
*numbers indicate all-time World Cup Qualifying caps/goals
Head Coach: Bob Bradley (Manhattan Beach, Calif.)
All-time Record: 24-8-4
World Cup Qualifying: 9-1-1
May 26-June 6, 2009
Players Pos. Ht. Wt. Birthdate Hometown Club Caps/Goals
Adu, Freddy M 5-8 140 06/02/89 Potomac, Md. AS Monaco (France) 12/1
Altidore, Jozy F 6-1 175 11/06/89 Boca Raton, Fla. Xerez C.D. (Spain) 9/6
Beasley, DaMarcus M 5-8 145 05/24/82 Ft. Wayne, Ind. Glasgow Rangers (Scotland) 85/17
Bocanegra, Carlos D 6-0 170 05/25/79 Alta Loma, Calif. Stade Rennais (France) 65/10
Bornstein, Jonathan D 5-9 145 11/07/84 Los Alamitos, Calif. Chivas USA 14/1
Bradley, Michael M 6-2 175 07/31/87 Manhattan Beach, Calif. Borussia Mönchengladbach (Germany) 28/5
Califf, Danny D 6-1 175 03/17/80 Orange, Calif FC Midtjylland (Denmark) 23/1
Ching, Brian F 6-1 195 05/24/78 Haleiwa, Hawaii Houston Dynamo 36/9
Davies, Charlie F 5-10 160 06/25/86 Manchester, N.H. Hammarby IF (Sweden) 5/1
DeMerit, Jay D 6-0 185 12/04/79 Green Bay, Wis. Watford FC (England) 9/1
Dempsey, Clint F 6-1 170 03/09/83 Nacogdoches, Texas Fulham FC (England) 49/13
Donovan, Landon F 5-8 150 03/04/82 Redlands, Calif. Los Angeles Galaxy 108/37
Edu, Maurice M 6-0 170 04/18/86 Fontana, Calif. Glasgow Rangers (Scotland) 11/1
Feilhaber, Benny M 5-9 150 01/19/85 Irvine, Calif. AGF Aarhus (Denmark) 16/2
Guzan, Brad GK 6-4 210 09/09/84 Homer Glen, Ill. Aston Villa FC (England) 12/1
Hejduk, Frankie D 5-8 155 08/05/74 Cardiff, Calif. Columbus Crew 84/7
Howard, Tim GK 6-3 210 03/06/79 North Brunswick, N.J. Everton FC (England) 37/0
Mastroeni, Pablo M 5-10 170 8/26/1976 Phoenix, Ariz. Colorado Rapids 63/0
Kljestan, Sacha M 6-1 150 09/09/85 Huntington Beach, Calif. Chivas USA 16/3
Onyewu, Oguchi D 6-4 210 05/13/82 Olney, Md. Standard de Liege (Belgium) 40/5
Pearce, Heath D 5-10 175 08/13/84 Modesto, Calif. Hansa Rostock (Germany) 23/0
Spector, Jonathan D 6-0 180 03/01/86 Arlington Heights, Ill. West Ham United (England) 12/1
Torres, José Francisco M 5-7 135 10/29/87 Longview, Texas C.D. Pachuca (Mexico) 4/1
Wynne, Marvell D 5-9 170 05/08/86 Poway, Calif. Toronto FC 2/1
U.S. ROSTER BY POSITION
GOALKEEPERS (2): Brad Guzan (Aston Villa: 5/3 SO), Tim Howard (Everton: 9/7 SO)
DEFENDERS (9): Carlos Bocanegra (Rennes: 19/2), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA: 1/0), Danny Califf (Midtjylland: 4/0), Jay DeMerit (Watford: 1/0), Frankie Hejduk (Columbus Crew: 17/2), Oguchi Onyewu (Standard de Liege: 14/1), Heath Pearce (Hansa Rostock: 9/0), Jonathan Spector (West Ham United: 2/1), Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC: 0/0)
MIDFIELDERS (8): Freddy Adu (Monaco: 5/1), DaMarcus Beasley (Rangers: 24/6), Michael Bradley (Borussia Mönchengladbach: 9/4), Maurice Edu (Rangers: 4/0), Benny Feilhaber (Aarhus: 0/0), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA: 9/0), Pablo Mastroeni (Colorado Rapids: 13/0), José Francisco Torres (Pachuca: 4/0)
FORWARDS (5): Jozy Altidore (Xerez: 6/5), Brian Ching (Houston Dynamo: 15/6), Charlie Davies (Hammarby: 1/1), Clint Dempsey (Fulham: 15/4), Landon Donovan (Los Angeles Galaxy: 28/9)
*numbers indicate all-time World Cup Qualifying caps/goals
Head Coach: Bob Bradley (Manhattan Beach, Calif.)
All-time Record: 24-8-4
World Cup Qualifying: 9-1-1
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Interesting Article on World Cup Tickets
Interesting was the number of applications for TST for England. If they give out, say, 20,000 TSTs to England fans, that’s about a 1 in 11 shot, and England was the most heavily sought after team. I assume we weren’t in much demand, so you would think 1 in 2 people wanting USA TSTs would get them.
----------------------------------------------------------
Compiled by the Government Communication and Information System
Date: 04 May 2009
Title: Second phase of 2010 tickets kicks off
--------------------
Johannesburg - The second round of ticket sales for the 2010 FIFA World Cup has started, with approximately 100 000 tickets available on a first-come, first-served basis.
As of noon (Central European Time) on 4 May 2009, ticket applications can be made via www.fifa.com or at any First National Bank (FNB) branch in South Africa.
South Africans who apply at FNB branches must present a valid form of identification, while foreigners who apply at FNB branches must show their passports, reports SouthAfrica.info.
Those who apply on behalf of friends or family must provide their names, nationalities, dates of birth and identity numbers.
Each applicant can apply for up to four tickets per match and up to seven matches in total. Ticket prices start at US$20 (R140).
Applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application within 10 working days, and tickets will be available for collection from FIFA's venue ticketing centres from April 2010 onwards.
For more information the public can go to www.fifa.com.
The second round of ticket sales runs until 16 November 2009 - or until tickets made available for the second round run out.
Two more sales phases - a random selection followed again by a first-come, first-served phase - will follow the World Cup Final Draw, in which the 32 participating teams will be drawn into eight groups for the tournament.
The first of these will run from 5 December 2009 to 22 January 2010, and the second from 9 February to 7 April 2010.
Finally, if there are still any tickets left over, these will be sold in a "last minute" round of sales running from 15 April to 11 July 2010.
In the first round of ticket sales, over 1.8-million ticket applications from 205 countries were received. Of these, a total of 555 871 tickets were successfully drawn.
South Africans accounted for 245 948 or 44 percent of these ticket sales, followed by the United States (69 208 tickets), United Kingdom (39 421 tickets) and Germany (29 330 tickets).
From the applications received, the most popular team was England, with 228 822 team-specific tickets requested and 8 895 successfully awarded.
Not surprisingly, the World Cup final was the most heavily oversubscribed match, by a factor of 3 000 percent. - BuaNews
----------------------------------------------------------
Compiled by the Government Communication and Information System
Date: 04 May 2009
Title: Second phase of 2010 tickets kicks off
--------------------
Johannesburg - The second round of ticket sales for the 2010 FIFA World Cup has started, with approximately 100 000 tickets available on a first-come, first-served basis.
As of noon (Central European Time) on 4 May 2009, ticket applications can be made via www.fifa.com or at any First National Bank (FNB) branch in South Africa.
South Africans who apply at FNB branches must present a valid form of identification, while foreigners who apply at FNB branches must show their passports, reports SouthAfrica.info.
Those who apply on behalf of friends or family must provide their names, nationalities, dates of birth and identity numbers.
Each applicant can apply for up to four tickets per match and up to seven matches in total. Ticket prices start at US$20 (R140).
Applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application within 10 working days, and tickets will be available for collection from FIFA's venue ticketing centres from April 2010 onwards.
For more information the public can go to www.fifa.com.
The second round of ticket sales runs until 16 November 2009 - or until tickets made available for the second round run out.
Two more sales phases - a random selection followed again by a first-come, first-served phase - will follow the World Cup Final Draw, in which the 32 participating teams will be drawn into eight groups for the tournament.
The first of these will run from 5 December 2009 to 22 January 2010, and the second from 9 February to 7 April 2010.
Finally, if there are still any tickets left over, these will be sold in a "last minute" round of sales running from 15 April to 11 July 2010.
In the first round of ticket sales, over 1.8-million ticket applications from 205 countries were received. Of these, a total of 555 871 tickets were successfully drawn.
South Africans accounted for 245 948 or 44 percent of these ticket sales, followed by the United States (69 208 tickets), United Kingdom (39 421 tickets) and Germany (29 330 tickets).
From the applications received, the most popular team was England, with 228 822 team-specific tickets requested and 8 895 successfully awarded.
Not surprisingly, the World Cup final was the most heavily oversubscribed match, by a factor of 3 000 percent. - BuaNews
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Gold Cup Announced & AO Interview
Thanks to everyone that went to nashville game and our events and enjoyed the 3-0 domination of T&T by The US and the Hat Trick Hero Altidore. Let us know what you thought: http://www.surveygizmo.com/s/60206/american-outlaws-game-day-experience
--------------------------------------
Gold Cup Games Announced:
July 4
US vs. Grenada
Qwest Field, Seattle, WA
July 8
US vs. Honduras
RFK Stadium, Washington DC
July 11
US vs. Haiti
Gillette Stadium; Foxborough, Mass.
---------------------------------------
Also check out Korey and our Houston Chapter head Whisky Sam talk about The American Outlaws on The Game Radio show in Houston: http://thegame.podbean.com/2009/03/30/soccer-show-3-30-2009-2nd-seg/
Thanks,
Justin Brunken
--------------------------------------
Gold Cup Games Announced:
July 4
US vs. Grenada
Qwest Field, Seattle, WA
July 8
US vs. Honduras
RFK Stadium, Washington DC
July 11
US vs. Haiti
Gillette Stadium; Foxborough, Mass.
---------------------------------------
Also check out Korey and our Houston Chapter head Whisky Sam talk about The American Outlaws on The Game Radio show in Houston: http://thegame.podbean.com/2009/03/30/soccer-show-3-30-2009-2nd-seg/
Thanks,
Justin Brunken
Monday, March 23, 2009
American Outlaws T-Shirt Gets Published
American Outlaws T-Shirt Design by Jeremie Memming, gets published: http://www.zeixs.com/books_logo2.php, look at bottom right square.
Thanks Jeremie,
Granted it is in a German Publication, but that's ok. That just means we are taking over the world, not just the US.
This also reminds me to thank all of our talented friends who have helped us through out the last 2 years, we wouldn't be where we are with out you guys.
If you would like to wear this piece of history, visit: http://www.theamericanoutlaws.com/content/view/50/45/
Thanks Jeremie,
Granted it is in a German Publication, but that's ok. That just means we are taking over the world, not just the US.
This also reminds me to thank all of our talented friends who have helped us through out the last 2 years, we wouldn't be where we are with out you guys.
If you would like to wear this piece of history, visit: http://www.theamericanoutlaws.com/content/view/50/45/
Thursday, March 19, 2009
US Game Venues for Gold Cup Predictions
Hey American Outlaws,
Gold Cup Venues for this summer were announced, with a record number 13 cities going to be involved. Check all of them out here:
http://www.concacaf.com/competitions/goldcup/2009/venues.aspxThe teams have already qualified, but what teams are in what groups, and who is playing in what cities hasn't been announced, but that doesn't mean there aren't any predictions going around.
I seems to look like US will be in Group B, which will be playing Seattle on July 4th, DC on July 8th, and in Boston on July 11th. Winner of Group B, likely to play in Philadelphia, and then semis in Chicago, and final in New York.
This isn't a guarantee, but it looks very possible. Not sure what type of team we will be bringing to the Gold Cup, since we are playing for nothing, but it will be a good chance for more people to see our boys play. We might be playing some young players for Bob Bradley to get a feel for some players on the bubble of being on the World Cup Team.
We will let you know when it gets announced.
Look forward to another US v Mexico match, which might be the only really important game, which would be important only for pride sack.
Here continues an amazing year of US Soccer.
Brunken
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Random Points from the Mexico Game
Like a lot of US fans, I am coming down after an engrossing couple of days in Columbus. Here are some random things that come to mind from the game:
-I was excited by our quick, one-touch passing for large stretches of the game. It was a little worrisome, though, that it wasn't coming from some of our younger players, such as Jozy and Rico, although you could argue they weren't given much time to do anything.
-Heath Pearce did the job defensively but was very wasteful with the ball.
-This was the largest U.S. supporters section ever to witness a home game.
-It would be hard to find someone I dislike more than Rafa Marquez.
-It would be hard to find anyone I love more than Frankie Hejduk or Michael Bradley.
-It was a wonderful feeling walking out winners 2-0, but I will likely first think of the march from the bar into the ensuing hail monsoon first when I think back on this game.
-Had a chance to say hi to a few of the players at the hotel after the game. We support a bunch of descent, friendly guys.
-Much props to US Soccer, who treated us very well through the ticketing process.
I'm gonna hit the sack feeling very fulfilled. Many thanks to everyone who contributed to such a glorious night.
Korey
-I was excited by our quick, one-touch passing for large stretches of the game. It was a little worrisome, though, that it wasn't coming from some of our younger players, such as Jozy and Rico, although you could argue they weren't given much time to do anything.
-Heath Pearce did the job defensively but was very wasteful with the ball.
-This was the largest U.S. supporters section ever to witness a home game.
-It would be hard to find someone I dislike more than Rafa Marquez.
-It would be hard to find anyone I love more than Frankie Hejduk or Michael Bradley.
-It was a wonderful feeling walking out winners 2-0, but I will likely first think of the march from the bar into the ensuing hail monsoon first when I think back on this game.
-Had a chance to say hi to a few of the players at the hotel after the game. We support a bunch of descent, friendly guys.
-Much props to US Soccer, who treated us very well through the ticketing process.
I'm gonna hit the sack feeling very fulfilled. Many thanks to everyone who contributed to such a glorious night.
Korey
Monday, February 9, 2009
USA v Mexico (World Cup Qualifier)02/11/09 Columbus Crew Stadium, Columbus, OH
AO SCOUTING REPORT
The Big One
Put on your seatbelts, kids. It’s the match we’ve all been waiting for, US v Mexico WCQ in Columbus. Last time out, the mighty
yanks qualified for Germany with a sound 2-0 performance with goals from Steve Ralston and Damarcus Beasley. The US will expect
a similar result against a Mexican squad looking to avenge their lackluster pre-qualifying campaign. Mexican boss Sven Goran-Erikson
has done little right since joining with “El Tri” last year, and will need a miracle to bring down a US team brimming with confidence.
It has been said that if Sven can’t beat the US here, he will be out of a job. The US is coming off an 8-0-2 record against the Mexicans
on home soil since 2001, and the Mexicans will need something amazing to break down the US defense that has been brilliant in
recent outings.
The US has come off a solid qualifying campaign. Clearly, the Bocanegra-Onyewu backline has left little to the imagination, but will
surely be tested in Columbus. Dos Santos should get a run-out, and will put Gooch’s speed on trial. But who will start alongside
Michael Bradley in the heart of the midfield? Very likely Sacha Kljestan, after his hat-trick performance against Sweden, with Ching
and Dempsey up front. Bob Bradley clearly recognizes the magnitude of the match at hand, and has proved successful in the past.
No-one could forget Benny Feilhaber’s volley to seal the Gold Cup in 2006, and US fans will be looking to Bob Bradley to deliver once
again.
The US squad is as follows:
GK: Tim Howard, Brad Guzan
DEF: Carlos Bocanegra, Jonathon Bornstein, Danny Califf, Frankie Hejduk, Oguchi Onyewu, Heath Pearce
MID: Damarcus Beasley, Michael Bradley, Ricardo Clark, Sacha Kljestan, Robbie Rogers, Jose Francisco Torres, Marvel Wynne,
FOR: Josmer Altidore, Brian Ching, Clint Dempsey, Landon Donovan
Projected line-up:
T.Ho
Hejduk, Boca, Gooch, Pearce
Beasley, Bradley, Donovan, Kljestan
Dempsey, Ching
Make no mistake, this game has social, cultural, and political value along with the football. The US/Mexico rivalry surely ranks among
the top in the world. Therefore, expect an extremely tense atmosphere at Columbus Crew stadium on Wednesday. These 2
CONCACAF dominates have struggled to prove superiority for years, and will continue to forever. Anyone who is anyone will
appreciate what is at stake on Wednesday, bragging rights to the region that will content for 2010 in South Africa.
Expect a chilling occasion both on the pitch and off the pitch.
Full roster info below:
Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Birthdate Caps/G Hometown Club
Altidore, Jozy F 6'1" 175 11/06/89 6/2 Boca Raton, Fla. Xerez C.D. (Spain)
Beasley, DaMarcus M 5'8" 145 05/24/82 82/17 Ft. Wayne, Ind. Glasgow Rangers (Scotland)
Bocanegra, Carlos D 6'0" 170 05/25/79 62/10 Alta Loma, Calif. Stade Rennais (France)
Bornstein, Jonathan D 5'9" 145 11/07/84 14/1 Los Alamitos, Calif. Chivas USA (MLS)
Bradley, Michael M 6'2" 175 07/31/87 25/3 Manhattan Beach, Calif. Borussia Mönchengladbach (Germ.)
Califf, Danny D 6'1" 175 03/17/80 22/1 Orange, Calif. FC Midtjylland (Denmark)
Ching, Brian F 6'1" 195 05/24/78 32/9 Haleiwa, Hawaii Houston Dynamo (MLS)
Clark, Ricardo M 5'10" 150 05/10/83 16/1 Jonesboro, Ga. Houston Dynamo (MLS)
Davies, Charlie F 5'10" 160 06/25/86 5/1 Manchester, N.H. Hammarby IF (Sweden)
Dempsey, Clint M 6'1" 170 03/09/83 46/13 Nacogdoches, Texas Fulham FC (England)
Donovan, Landon F 5'8" 150 03/04/82 105/37 Redlands, Calif. Bayern Munich (Germany)
Guzan, Brad GK 6'4" 210 09/09/84 11/0 Homer Glen, Ill. Aston Villa (England)
Hejduk, Frankie D 5'8" 155 08/05/74 81/6 Cardiff, Calif. Columbus Crew (MLS)
Howard, Tim GK 6'3" 210 03/06/79 35/0 North Brunswick, N.J. Everton FC (England)
Kljestan, Sacha M 6'1" 150 09/09/85 13/3 Huntington Beach, Calif. Chivas USA (MLS)
Onyewu, Oguchi D 6'4" 210 05/13/82 38/5 Olney, Md. Standard de Liege (Belgium)
Pearce, Heath D 5'10" 175 08/13/84 21/0 Modesto, Calif. Hansa Rostock (Germany)
Rogers, Robbie M 5'10" 165 05/12/87 1/0 Huntington Beach, Calif. Columbus Crew (MLS)
Torres, José Francisco M 5'7" 135 10/29/87 2/0 Longview, Texas Pachuca (Mexico)
Wynne, Marvell D 5'9" 170 05/08/86 2/0 Poway, Calif. Toronto FC (MLS)
Monday, January 26, 2009
US v Sweden & Sacha Show
US - 3
Sweden - 2
A good win to start of the year and a good confidence booster before the all important Mexico Game February 11th. US won 3-2, from a hat trick from Sacha Kljestan, his first and the 11th of US Soccer. US dominated most of the game, which is a good sign from a young team, comprised of domestic players with most of them, less then 10 caps.
The games first goal, was the best. An amazing free kick from Sacha about 30 yards out. I didn't think Sacha had it in him, but it looks like he might be heading to Celtic, especially after that performance. Our offense looked good, but are young defense looked like they could have dominated a little more and not let in 2. I have to give Sweden credit for coming trying to come back, but it was never in doubt.
I hope everyone had a blast either at their respective viewing parties or at the game. We will see you in Columbus.
Below is the Match Report from ussoccer.com
Thanks and enjoy,
Brunken
Match: United States Men's National Team vs. Sweden
Date: January 24, 2009
Competition: International Friendly
Venue: The Home Depot Center; Carson, Calif.
Kickoff: 5:30 p.m. PT
Attendance: 9,918
Weather: 59 degrees, mostly cloudy
Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
USA 2 1 3
SWE 0 2 2
USA – Sacha Kljestan 17th minute
USA – Kljestan (PK) 40
SWE – Daniel Nannskog (Alexander Farnerud) 73
USA – Kljestan (Brian Ching) 74
USA – Mikael Dahlberg (Farnerud) 89
Lineups:
USA: 1-Troy Perkins; 12-Marvell Wynne, 2-Danny Califf (capt.), 4-Michael Parkhurst (3-Ugo Ihemelu, 82), 6-Jonathan Bornstein (15-Chris Wingert, 79); 17-John Thorrington (20-Chris Rolfe, 61), 13-Ricardo Clark, 16-Sacha Kljestan, 30-Robbie Rogers (22-Brian Carroll, 69); 10-Charlie Davies (27-Kenny Cooper, 46), 11-Brian Ching (29-Eddie Gaven, 77)
Subs not used: 18-Jon Busch
Head Coach: Bob Bradley
SWE: 12-Johan Dahlin, 7-Markus Jonsson, 8-Marcus Lindberg, 9-Max von Schlebrügge, 5-Adam Johansson; 10-Andreas Dahl (14-Rasmus Elm, 62), 6-Daniel Andersson (capt.) (13-Martin Ericsson, 71), 20-Gustav Svensson, 16-Samuel Holmén (15-Alexander Farnerud, 62); 11-Mikael Dahlberg, 19-Daniel Nannskog
Subs not used: 1-John Alvbåge, 2-Patrik Anttonen, 3-Rasmus Bengtsson, 4-Mattias Bjärsmyr, , 17-Andreas Johannson, 18-Andreas Landgren, 21-Denni Avdic
Head Coach: Lars Lagerbäck
Stats Summary: USA / SWE
Shots: 13 / 9
Shots on Goal: 6 / 6
Saves: 3 / 3
Corner Kicks: 7 / 1
Fouls: 15 / 15
Offside: 2 / 5
Misconduct Summary:
SWE – Daniel Andersson (caution) 27th minute
USA – Danny Califf (caution) 59
Officials:
Referee: Silviu Petrescu (CAN)
Assistant Referee 1: Hector Vergara (CAN)
Assistant Referee 2: Darren Clark (CAN)
Fourth Official: Baldomero Toledo (USA)
ussoccer.com Man of the Match:
Sacha Kjestan
Sweden - 2
A good win to start of the year and a good confidence booster before the all important Mexico Game February 11th. US won 3-2, from a hat trick from Sacha Kljestan, his first and the 11th of US Soccer. US dominated most of the game, which is a good sign from a young team, comprised of domestic players with most of them, less then 10 caps.
The games first goal, was the best. An amazing free kick from Sacha about 30 yards out. I didn't think Sacha had it in him, but it looks like he might be heading to Celtic, especially after that performance. Our offense looked good, but are young defense looked like they could have dominated a little more and not let in 2. I have to give Sweden credit for coming trying to come back, but it was never in doubt.
I hope everyone had a blast either at their respective viewing parties or at the game. We will see you in Columbus.
Below is the Match Report from ussoccer.com
Thanks and enjoy,
Brunken
Match: United States Men's National Team vs. Sweden
Date: January 24, 2009
Competition: International Friendly
Venue: The Home Depot Center; Carson, Calif.
Kickoff: 5:30 p.m. PT
Attendance: 9,918
Weather: 59 degrees, mostly cloudy
Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
USA 2 1 3
SWE 0 2 2
USA – Sacha Kljestan 17th minute
USA – Kljestan (PK) 40
SWE – Daniel Nannskog (Alexander Farnerud) 73
USA – Kljestan (Brian Ching) 74
USA – Mikael Dahlberg (Farnerud) 89
Lineups:
USA: 1-Troy Perkins; 12-Marvell Wynne, 2-Danny Califf (capt.), 4-Michael Parkhurst (3-Ugo Ihemelu, 82), 6-Jonathan Bornstein (15-Chris Wingert, 79); 17-John Thorrington (20-Chris Rolfe, 61), 13-Ricardo Clark, 16-Sacha Kljestan, 30-Robbie Rogers (22-Brian Carroll, 69); 10-Charlie Davies (27-Kenny Cooper, 46), 11-Brian Ching (29-Eddie Gaven, 77)
Subs not used: 18-Jon Busch
Head Coach: Bob Bradley
SWE: 12-Johan Dahlin, 7-Markus Jonsson, 8-Marcus Lindberg, 9-Max von Schlebrügge, 5-Adam Johansson; 10-Andreas Dahl (14-Rasmus Elm, 62), 6-Daniel Andersson (capt.) (13-Martin Ericsson, 71), 20-Gustav Svensson, 16-Samuel Holmén (15-Alexander Farnerud, 62); 11-Mikael Dahlberg, 19-Daniel Nannskog
Subs not used: 1-John Alvbåge, 2-Patrik Anttonen, 3-Rasmus Bengtsson, 4-Mattias Bjärsmyr, , 17-Andreas Johannson, 18-Andreas Landgren, 21-Denni Avdic
Head Coach: Lars Lagerbäck
Stats Summary: USA / SWE
Shots: 13 / 9
Shots on Goal: 6 / 6
Saves: 3 / 3
Corner Kicks: 7 / 1
Fouls: 15 / 15
Offside: 2 / 5
Misconduct Summary:
SWE – Daniel Andersson (caution) 27th minute
USA – Danny Califf (caution) 59
Officials:
Referee: Silviu Petrescu (CAN)
Assistant Referee 1: Hector Vergara (CAN)
Assistant Referee 2: Darren Clark (CAN)
Fourth Official: Baldomero Toledo (USA)
ussoccer.com Man of the Match:
Sacha Kjestan
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
February 11th: Looking Forward
On September 3rd, 2005 I attended my second U.S. National Team match, a World Cup qualifier against Mexico in Columbus, Ohio. My first was the friendly against England in May of the same year, during which I sat in the upper level of Soldier Field opposite Sam’s Army. The English fans impressed me with their songs and passion and I was able to hear little more from the U.S. supporters than the faint beat of a drum and the occasional “USA” chant. In Columbus my seats were again opposite Sam’s Army but, to my surprise, I saw in the home end a section of thousands of rabid U.S. fans who stood, jumped and chanted through the entire game, drowning out the Mexican fans and creating a true home atmosphere for the U.S. team. It was a perfect match in almost every way; the weather, the supporters and the result; qualification for the World Cup comes only once every four years and doing it against our fiercest rival to the tune of a familiar, 2-0 scoreline couldn’t have been sweeter. Once the fireworks had ended and the players had taken their victory lap, I had only one regret – that I hadn’t experienced the match with those supporters in the home end of the stadium. I had good seats and was able to hurl some newly-learned insults in Spanish at the Mexicans in my section but I wanted to be with people who, like me, took the support of a soccer team more seriously – and obviously had a lot more fun doing it.
Roughly three-and-a-half years later, it is once again time to get ready for the home qualifier against Mexico. I’ve been to ten U.S. matches since then, standing for all of them in the U.S. supporter’s section. I’ve seen the birth and success of the American Outlaws, a supporter’s group that shares not only my passion for U.S. Soccer but my attitude as well. Although it’s not yet official, we can optimistically assume that the match will again be at Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio. The weather won’t be perfect, at least not by neutral standards, but we can make sure that the atmosphere and support will. And this time, barring an act of God, I will be there, standing and singing in the U.S. supporter’s section.
It’s been a while since I last took the time to post a blog entry. I’d like to blame it on my busy schedule and it’s true; it’s hard to find the time between work, my band, school, my soccer team and my slightly excessive drinking habit to sit down and come up with anything more interesting or thoughtful to say than, “Thank god Guatemala’s not in the hex.” But I’ll be honest, the real reason for my lack of posting (other than the fact that the head haunchos at American Outlaws haven’t asked us to) is pure laziness. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve spent many hours driving to work every day coming up with intriguing – no, brilliant! – things to say and write about, only to have them die slow, painful deaths through the course of my day. Seeing as the MLS season has ended and we’re less than three months away from the hex and the most important match in two-and-a-half years, now seemed to be a good time to fire up Microsoft Word and see if I remember how to type. At least I can get it out of the way before I add “plan trip to see Mexicans freeze their chalupas off” and “buy presents for people I see twice-a-year” to my schedule.
I was ecstatic to learn that we’d be playing Mexico in February. I’ve always wished I had been to the cold war in Columbus in 2001, the match that ushered in the “dos a cero” era. This is a great chance for newer fans like us to experience the same kind of game in the same atmosphere and hopefully, see a similar result. After seeing the advantages of heat, altitude and smog used by Mexico at Azteca, I find it satisfying to know they’ll have to play the game outside of their own element in unfavorable conditions.
I have to point out that the date of the match presents the U.S. team with an interesting set of issues. We look solid in the back and I don’t see any reason to change the lineup here. Howard, Cherundolo, Onyewu, Bocanegra and Pearce are all playing in colder environments in Europe, with the slight exception of Bocanegra in France; they are all getting consistent playing time and look to be in good to great form. Pearce is the exception in this case, but his consistent performances for the national team clearly make him our best choice at left back.
The question is more difficult to answer in the center of midfield. Whether or not Mastroeni would be the right choice for this match is a moot point, given his suspension due to yellow card accumulation. Here more than anywhere, the MLS off season becomes an issue. Ricardo Clark (yes, Ricardo Clark) has been our most consistent CM against Mexico since Bradley took over as coach (full 90 in the friendly in Arizona, subbed in for Mastroeni at halftime of the Gold Cup final, 79 minutes in the friendly in Houston). His off season fitness, however, makes him a questionable pick. A lot will depend on his performance in the January camp and friendly.
Michael Bradley has started the most consistently of late and he is getting a decent amount of playing time for his club in a cold environment, but his experience against Mexico is limited to the friendly in Houston in which he was subbed off in the 63rd minute after a poor performance. His replacement, Benny Feilhaber, taught us an important lesson: When playing the 4-4-2 “empty bucket” formation against quality oppostion, we need a playmaker in the midfield. Despite his lack of form, Feilhaber’s attack-minded presence kept the Mexicans honest and put a stop, at least momentarily, to their domination of the run of play.
It’s been said that Sacha Kljestan is the new Benny Feilhaber, and that probably isn’t too far off the mark. Sacha has been that playmaker as of late and has put in some solid performances for the full national team late in the year. He has to be considered an option, though fitness in the MLS off season again raises questions. He’s not the most consistent of players and being out of form could make him a defensive liability. My hope is that he’ll be transferred during the January window to a club in Europe where he can train and, hopefully, get some starts under his belt.
Maurice Edu is training with a good club in a cold environment but is getting precious little playing time. I believe his future is bright and that he is likely to be an outstanding, 1st-team defensive midfielder for the U.S. but, unless he starts getting real playing time for Rangers in the next couple months, he is not the best choice to start.
Of course, the necessity for a central midfield playmaker in the 4-4-2 is a moot point if we don’t play a 4-4-2, which is a solution Bob Bradley has discovered in some of the qualifiers in the second half of the year. In the 4-5-1 Donovan becomes the playmaker as an attacking midfielder and the central midfielders focus more on defense; although even in this case, Bradley has chosen Kljestan as one of those CM’s, adding more weight to our attack. I think the 4-5-1 is our best option against Mexico, as Donovan gets to play his preferred position and we have two players who can focus on stopping Mexico’s attack and also have the option to get forward. Playing Bradley and Clark didn’t work in the friendly in Houston; but if Donovan is used as an attacking midfielder, the game changes. Unless Kljestan can maintain form or Edu can find it, I think it’s what we’ll see.
As for the rest of the midfield, Beasley seems to have the left side locked up. Training and playing, though inconsistently, in a cold environment, his partnership with Donovan and his successful performance against Mexico in Columbus in 2005 make him a pretty clear choice. Donovan is also a sure thing, barring injury, either on the right or, as I hope, as an attacking midfielder. Skipping the MLS off season to join Bayern Munich was a great decision, in my opinion, and one that should keep him in form and get him used to the cold. Who knows if he’ll be successful or get a tremendous amount of playing time, but sitting around watching his wife suck at acting in the Los Angeles weather could easily have left him unprepared to play the most important match of the year in the Ohio winter. Sorry Bianca.
In a 4-5-1 with Donovan as the AM, the right side presents a question. All of our options, including Donovan, lack strong defensive capabilities but offer a good amount of speed and punch in the attack. Dempsey is getting some playing time in a somewhat colder environment and is the most likely candidate. He’s looked good in the past and, when it comes to the national team, has performed solidly this past year. Kljestan is another option and it remains to be seen if he’ll stay with MLS or go this winter; yet another option is (surprise surprise!) Freddy Adu. The only thing more unexpected than seeing Kljestan start on the left and Adu on the right against Guatemala, was how well it worked. I guess that’s why I’m not the coach. As interesting as either of these options would be, I expect to see Dempsey on the right and it’s probably the pick I would make.
And finally, the forwards. The important thing to remember here is that Bradley loves Ching. It’s not a completely unjustified love, either, as Brian Ching has both a great ability to hold up the ball (essential in the 4-4-2) and a great partnership with Landon Donovan. His weakness, as we all know, is his ability to finish with any part of his body other than his head or his ass. It should also be noted that the Dynamo will begin the quarter-finals of the CONCACAF Champions League in late February and may begin training in late January or early February – they certainly should and will if they have any memory of how MLS teams, including themselves, have performed in later stages of past competitions. This could make Ricardo Clark and Brian Ching at least slightly more viable options. In a 4-5-1 I’m less a fan of Ching but I just don’t think we’ll see Coach Bob deviate from the past. I would be excited to see Altidore or Cooper up top, but I just don’t see anyone taking Ching’s spot when the most important game of the year is played at the beginning of the year before we’ve had a chance to give anyone else a serious look in a truly competitive match.
So, in case I don’t get around to posting again before the 25th or the American Outlaws top brass tells me my services are no longer desired, I’d like to say Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, Joyous Kwanza, or (insert your well-intentioned, seasonal greeting of choice) to all the Outlaws out there; may your stockings be stuffed with jerseys, scarves, calendars, airline miles and match tickets. It’s a jungle out there this time of year, drive safely and don’t get trampled to death in any Wal-Marts – you’re no good to us dead! We’ve got the most important match of qualification coming up in February, make sure you get there in one piece… well, make sure you get there.
- Ben Girard
Roughly three-and-a-half years later, it is once again time to get ready for the home qualifier against Mexico. I’ve been to ten U.S. matches since then, standing for all of them in the U.S. supporter’s section. I’ve seen the birth and success of the American Outlaws, a supporter’s group that shares not only my passion for U.S. Soccer but my attitude as well. Although it’s not yet official, we can optimistically assume that the match will again be at Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio. The weather won’t be perfect, at least not by neutral standards, but we can make sure that the atmosphere and support will. And this time, barring an act of God, I will be there, standing and singing in the U.S. supporter’s section.
It’s been a while since I last took the time to post a blog entry. I’d like to blame it on my busy schedule and it’s true; it’s hard to find the time between work, my band, school, my soccer team and my slightly excessive drinking habit to sit down and come up with anything more interesting or thoughtful to say than, “Thank god Guatemala’s not in the hex.” But I’ll be honest, the real reason for my lack of posting (other than the fact that the head haunchos at American Outlaws haven’t asked us to) is pure laziness. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve spent many hours driving to work every day coming up with intriguing – no, brilliant! – things to say and write about, only to have them die slow, painful deaths through the course of my day. Seeing as the MLS season has ended and we’re less than three months away from the hex and the most important match in two-and-a-half years, now seemed to be a good time to fire up Microsoft Word and see if I remember how to type. At least I can get it out of the way before I add “plan trip to see Mexicans freeze their chalupas off” and “buy presents for people I see twice-a-year” to my schedule.
I was ecstatic to learn that we’d be playing Mexico in February. I’ve always wished I had been to the cold war in Columbus in 2001, the match that ushered in the “dos a cero” era. This is a great chance for newer fans like us to experience the same kind of game in the same atmosphere and hopefully, see a similar result. After seeing the advantages of heat, altitude and smog used by Mexico at Azteca, I find it satisfying to know they’ll have to play the game outside of their own element in unfavorable conditions.
I have to point out that the date of the match presents the U.S. team with an interesting set of issues. We look solid in the back and I don’t see any reason to change the lineup here. Howard, Cherundolo, Onyewu, Bocanegra and Pearce are all playing in colder environments in Europe, with the slight exception of Bocanegra in France; they are all getting consistent playing time and look to be in good to great form. Pearce is the exception in this case, but his consistent performances for the national team clearly make him our best choice at left back.
The question is more difficult to answer in the center of midfield. Whether or not Mastroeni would be the right choice for this match is a moot point, given his suspension due to yellow card accumulation. Here more than anywhere, the MLS off season becomes an issue. Ricardo Clark (yes, Ricardo Clark) has been our most consistent CM against Mexico since Bradley took over as coach (full 90 in the friendly in Arizona, subbed in for Mastroeni at halftime of the Gold Cup final, 79 minutes in the friendly in Houston). His off season fitness, however, makes him a questionable pick. A lot will depend on his performance in the January camp and friendly.
Michael Bradley has started the most consistently of late and he is getting a decent amount of playing time for his club in a cold environment, but his experience against Mexico is limited to the friendly in Houston in which he was subbed off in the 63rd minute after a poor performance. His replacement, Benny Feilhaber, taught us an important lesson: When playing the 4-4-2 “empty bucket” formation against quality oppostion, we need a playmaker in the midfield. Despite his lack of form, Feilhaber’s attack-minded presence kept the Mexicans honest and put a stop, at least momentarily, to their domination of the run of play.
It’s been said that Sacha Kljestan is the new Benny Feilhaber, and that probably isn’t too far off the mark. Sacha has been that playmaker as of late and has put in some solid performances for the full national team late in the year. He has to be considered an option, though fitness in the MLS off season again raises questions. He’s not the most consistent of players and being out of form could make him a defensive liability. My hope is that he’ll be transferred during the January window to a club in Europe where he can train and, hopefully, get some starts under his belt.
Maurice Edu is training with a good club in a cold environment but is getting precious little playing time. I believe his future is bright and that he is likely to be an outstanding, 1st-team defensive midfielder for the U.S. but, unless he starts getting real playing time for Rangers in the next couple months, he is not the best choice to start.
Of course, the necessity for a central midfield playmaker in the 4-4-2 is a moot point if we don’t play a 4-4-2, which is a solution Bob Bradley has discovered in some of the qualifiers in the second half of the year. In the 4-5-1 Donovan becomes the playmaker as an attacking midfielder and the central midfielders focus more on defense; although even in this case, Bradley has chosen Kljestan as one of those CM’s, adding more weight to our attack. I think the 4-5-1 is our best option against Mexico, as Donovan gets to play his preferred position and we have two players who can focus on stopping Mexico’s attack and also have the option to get forward. Playing Bradley and Clark didn’t work in the friendly in Houston; but if Donovan is used as an attacking midfielder, the game changes. Unless Kljestan can maintain form or Edu can find it, I think it’s what we’ll see.
As for the rest of the midfield, Beasley seems to have the left side locked up. Training and playing, though inconsistently, in a cold environment, his partnership with Donovan and his successful performance against Mexico in Columbus in 2005 make him a pretty clear choice. Donovan is also a sure thing, barring injury, either on the right or, as I hope, as an attacking midfielder. Skipping the MLS off season to join Bayern Munich was a great decision, in my opinion, and one that should keep him in form and get him used to the cold. Who knows if he’ll be successful or get a tremendous amount of playing time, but sitting around watching his wife suck at acting in the Los Angeles weather could easily have left him unprepared to play the most important match of the year in the Ohio winter. Sorry Bianca.
In a 4-5-1 with Donovan as the AM, the right side presents a question. All of our options, including Donovan, lack strong defensive capabilities but offer a good amount of speed and punch in the attack. Dempsey is getting some playing time in a somewhat colder environment and is the most likely candidate. He’s looked good in the past and, when it comes to the national team, has performed solidly this past year. Kljestan is another option and it remains to be seen if he’ll stay with MLS or go this winter; yet another option is (surprise surprise!) Freddy Adu. The only thing more unexpected than seeing Kljestan start on the left and Adu on the right against Guatemala, was how well it worked. I guess that’s why I’m not the coach. As interesting as either of these options would be, I expect to see Dempsey on the right and it’s probably the pick I would make.
And finally, the forwards. The important thing to remember here is that Bradley loves Ching. It’s not a completely unjustified love, either, as Brian Ching has both a great ability to hold up the ball (essential in the 4-4-2) and a great partnership with Landon Donovan. His weakness, as we all know, is his ability to finish with any part of his body other than his head or his ass. It should also be noted that the Dynamo will begin the quarter-finals of the CONCACAF Champions League in late February and may begin training in late January or early February – they certainly should and will if they have any memory of how MLS teams, including themselves, have performed in later stages of past competitions. This could make Ricardo Clark and Brian Ching at least slightly more viable options. In a 4-5-1 I’m less a fan of Ching but I just don’t think we’ll see Coach Bob deviate from the past. I would be excited to see Altidore or Cooper up top, but I just don’t see anyone taking Ching’s spot when the most important game of the year is played at the beginning of the year before we’ve had a chance to give anyone else a serious look in a truly competitive match.
So, in case I don’t get around to posting again before the 25th or the American Outlaws top brass tells me my services are no longer desired, I’d like to say Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, Joyous Kwanza, or (insert your well-intentioned, seasonal greeting of choice) to all the Outlaws out there; may your stockings be stuffed with jerseys, scarves, calendars, airline miles and match tickets. It’s a jungle out there this time of year, drive safely and don’t get trampled to death in any Wal-Marts – you’re no good to us dead! We’ve got the most important match of qualification coming up in February, make sure you get there in one piece… well, make sure you get there.
- Ben Girard
Friday, June 27, 2008
You should read this
"US Allen 23" came up with this
I feel that we can use this.
Unassociated Supporters of US Soccer (USUSS)
We will:
Attend every possible game (especially against Mexico).
Stand in the Supporters end of the stadium.
Sing and chant for as long as we possibly can.
Watch every game that we cannot attend on TV.
Bring new people to every game we attend.
Wear red, white or blue, as long as it is in support of the Nats.
Befriend anyone wearing the US Soccer crest.
Assist SA and OA when the US plays in our hometown.
Meet and after before games at Pubs and/or Tailgates.
We Will Not:
Wear our club colors, while supporting the US.
Throw any object on the field, other than streamers.
Perform any act that embarrasses the US or our fellow supporters.
Tolerate racial comments or acts.
Have an issue with SA, OA or any other group who supports the US.
Membership:
No fees or actual membership will be accepted.
Is open to anyone who loves our team and our country
Members are encouraged to join any or none of the other supporters groups.
Meetings and coordination will be held on BigSoccer.com.
Goals:
Support our boys, while they represent us.
Finally establish a “Home field advantage” when we play on US soil
Broaden the awareness of the US National Team
Like I said I did not write this
But This is what we should be about
Coachgi
Friday, June 6, 2008
What Really Matters
Up to this date, I've had to do at least a small amount of thinking in order to decide upon topics for each of my blog entries. I've considered what others were writing about, what was relevent at the time, and what I wanted to say. However, when I read that my next entry was due on June 6th, I needed no further suggestions. Since every member of the American Outlaws is, by default, American; and presumably proud to be so, this is a good day to step back from the world of soccer and remember what really matters - and who we have to thank for this country of ours.
On the morning of June 6th, 1944, more than 70,000 Americans prepared to participate in the largest sea-land invasion in history, the invasion of Nazi-controlled Normandy, France. On a day that would become known to history simply as "D-Day," approximately 6,600 of those Americans were killed, wounded or taken prisoner as the Allied forces fought to gain a foothold on continental Europe. American airborne soldiers, dropped behind enemy lines in the pre-dawn hours and tasked with securing exit routes for forces landing on the beaches only a few hours later, found themselves scattered, lost, and in many cases, alone. On the beach codenamed "Omaha," the first waves of infantry units came ashore in the face of stiff, immediate German resistance. Hundreds were killed before exiting their landing craft or shortly thereafter. Many drowned in the English Channel, having been rendered unable to swim by their heavy equipment, or by their wounds. With the sea behind them and German fortified machine guns in front of them, the soldiers who made it ashore on Omaha Beach in those first hours found themselves hopelessly pinned and unabled to communicate, their leaders often lost or killed. General Omar Bradley, in charge of the assault, considered abandoning the beach.
The late historian Stephen E. Ambrose believed it was the uniquely American determination and initiative of these soldiers that saved the operation from failure. The men of the 101st and 82nd Airborne divisions banded together in ad-hoc, intermingled groups and marched on to their objectives, often tens of miles away. They fought in hastily constructed units, often with men whom they had never met, and secured the all-important areas behind the beaches. Men came together in a similar fashion on Omaha Beach, slowly forming units on their own initiative and fighting their way over the seawall, often up steep cliffs, and off the beach before attacking and defeating German units from the rear. Though very little about D-Day went according to plan, by the end of the day the allies had secured their beachhead and begun the fight to liberate Europe and defeat Nazi Germany.
Though the anniversary of D-Day has little to do with soccer, it is important for us as Americans to remember the men and women of the armed forces, both past and present, who have defended our country and made it possible for us to enjoy its freedoms; including the freedom to travel to a soccer match and support our team. And it is because of these Americans that we should be proud to live in a nation for whom so many have been willing to fight, and to die. When we support our team and our country, we should always remember those whose sacrifices have made it possible to do so. They are the reason our team can be proud to wear the red, white and blue, and they are the reason we can be proud to sing and cheer in their support.
-Ben Girard
On the morning of June 6th, 1944, more than 70,000 Americans prepared to participate in the largest sea-land invasion in history, the invasion of Nazi-controlled Normandy, France. On a day that would become known to history simply as "D-Day," approximately 6,600 of those Americans were killed, wounded or taken prisoner as the Allied forces fought to gain a foothold on continental Europe. American airborne soldiers, dropped behind enemy lines in the pre-dawn hours and tasked with securing exit routes for forces landing on the beaches only a few hours later, found themselves scattered, lost, and in many cases, alone. On the beach codenamed "Omaha," the first waves of infantry units came ashore in the face of stiff, immediate German resistance. Hundreds were killed before exiting their landing craft or shortly thereafter. Many drowned in the English Channel, having been rendered unable to swim by their heavy equipment, or by their wounds. With the sea behind them and German fortified machine guns in front of them, the soldiers who made it ashore on Omaha Beach in those first hours found themselves hopelessly pinned and unabled to communicate, their leaders often lost or killed. General Omar Bradley, in charge of the assault, considered abandoning the beach.
The late historian Stephen E. Ambrose believed it was the uniquely American determination and initiative of these soldiers that saved the operation from failure. The men of the 101st and 82nd Airborne divisions banded together in ad-hoc, intermingled groups and marched on to their objectives, often tens of miles away. They fought in hastily constructed units, often with men whom they had never met, and secured the all-important areas behind the beaches. Men came together in a similar fashion on Omaha Beach, slowly forming units on their own initiative and fighting their way over the seawall, often up steep cliffs, and off the beach before attacking and defeating German units from the rear. Though very little about D-Day went according to plan, by the end of the day the allies had secured their beachhead and begun the fight to liberate Europe and defeat Nazi Germany.
Though the anniversary of D-Day has little to do with soccer, it is important for us as Americans to remember the men and women of the armed forces, both past and present, who have defended our country and made it possible for us to enjoy its freedoms; including the freedom to travel to a soccer match and support our team. And it is because of these Americans that we should be proud to live in a nation for whom so many have been willing to fight, and to die. When we support our team and our country, we should always remember those whose sacrifices have made it possible to do so. They are the reason our team can be proud to wear the red, white and blue, and they are the reason we can be proud to sing and cheer in their support.
-Ben Girard
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Sam's Army vs American Outlaws?
Let me say this......It dose not matter.
For those of you who don't know what I am talking about,
There has been a debate on Bigsoccer about this topic,
And believe me, It dose not matter.
The only thing that dose matters is do you support US SOCCER.
Thats it.
Thats all that matters.
I am proud to say I am a card holding member of Sam's Army.
And a proud member of The American Outlaws.
Also The SoCal Brigade.
The only thing I do care About is this,
Getting people to the game and root for the US,
And as long as these groups do this,
I am ALL IN.
Note
June 15
HDC
I will see you there
Came up and say Hi
By
Coachgi
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