Doubt in Murcia

Unconvincing and unsettling, the US Men’s National team tied their second pre-World Cup friendly against Saudi Arabia 0-0 on Tuesday. Emphasis on friendly, the ultimate objective of this game, for head coach Gregg Berhalter, was to solidify a roster that will compete in the World Cup this November, and especially, answer a few questions about who is best suited in the center forward role. Not only do these questions remain unanswered but an eerie cloud of skepticism is starting to haunt American soccer fans.

Following their 2-0 loss to Japan, which Berhalter labeled as "lacking personality," general consensus was that the USMNT needed to step up against Saudi Arabia, and apply more intensity and aggression. Whether this specific goal was achieved or not in the friendly against Saudi Arabia, Berhalter’s words do not take into account missed passes from 20 yards from defenders and lackluster movement up top. Saudi Arabia’s plan of a committed high press on the American backline, similar to Japan, was effective, causing many problems for our attempts to build out. 

Recording only 2 shots on goal, our attack is far from lethal, and the best moments moving forward on the field were generated from combination plays between Sergiño Dest, Christian Pulisic, Weston McKinnie, and Tyler Adams. No doubt, we have the players capable of pulling off a successful run in November, yet do we have a plan? Do we have the intensity, in attack and defense, to outmatch Wales on November 21st. As of now, this team shows no signs of any real cohesion or organization. Attempted possession and combination play often looks sloppy, and Tyler Adams is yelling at his front 3 to come inside and show for the ball. We do not have eleven guys on the field that are on the same page. That much is clear. 

With less than 2 months away, I question whether or not we have the time and tools necessary to prepare for the world stage.