OT: USA vs Trinidad and Tobago

Submitted by uncle leo on

Massive game tonight for the USMNT. Pulisic is getting the start, which is very un-Klinsmann like.

Yeoman

September 6th, 2016 at 8:01 PM ^

Trinidad's already qualified; the US can't do worse than tie for the second spot and they're 12 up in goal difference. I suppose it's possible Guatemala could put up double digits tonight but it's the longest of long shots for the US to not qualify.

Yeoman

September 6th, 2016 at 8:07 PM ^

that it's better to finish second so you don't have to play the tough games right out of the gate.

I don't see that it matters much either way. You have to play the same ten games no matter what. The only advantage I can think of that can come from match order is the one you get if your last game is against a team that's already qualified and decides to rest their starters.

uncle leo

September 7th, 2016 at 9:37 AM ^

The timing is also much better for this specific version of the USMNT. For the first time in awhile, they look to have a much better chemistry. Getting to the semis in the Copa, and then trucking their last two games. T and T is a pretty dangerous opponent, and the USMNT dismantled them. 

I'd rather have the first game in a long Hex be at home against your biggest rival. There will be WAY more hype and excitement to open things up, rather than the midway point when things are at a bit of a lull. 

Tshimanga Cowabunga

September 6th, 2016 at 8:02 PM ^

I thought Bradley wasn't playing these two games... When did that change? Also, I like starting Klejstan. Has been in form the past year without getting a run from Klinsmann. Hope he can perform

JT4104

September 6th, 2016 at 8:58 PM ^

Soccer novice here....is this Michael Bradley dude any good? I've watched a few games and I always seem to notice him losing the ball constantly.

It seems like the younger guys have a little shake to their game compared to some of the older fellows.

mgoblue0970

September 7th, 2016 at 1:29 PM ^

He's horrible from the middle third though the final third.  No vision, sporadic attacking, poor passing.  He played because his dad used to be the head coach before JK.  Earlier Bradly just used to lose tbe ball on big time stages... now he loses the ball against the lower levels of CONCACAF too. I will not miss him when he is gone for good.