The United States men`s national team faced another setback in their international break, suffering a 2-1 defeat to Canada in the Concacaf Nations League third-place match. This loss comes shortly after a surprising defeat against Panama, raising concerns about the team`s readiness. In the game against Canada, the midfield struggled to control the tempo, leading to a disorganized performance. As the World Cup approaches, questions arise about whether the team`s depth players are prepared to step up.
To avoid disappointment at the World Cup, the USMNT needs to show rapid improvement. Coach Mauricio Pochettino faces the challenge of evaluating the squad and identifying areas for development. Let`s examine individual player performances against Canada:
GK: Matt Turner (90 mins)
Matt Turner made several important saves throughout the game. However, the goals conceded were difficult to prevent, regardless of his efforts. Rating: 5
DEF: Joe Scally (45 mins)
Joe Scally played the first half and delivered an adequate performance before being substituted at halftime. He showed strength in challenges but didn`t have numerous opportunities to impact the game. Rating: 6
DEF: Cameron Carter-Vickers (90 mins)
Cameron Carter-Vickers` defensive performance was acceptable, but he struggled to effectively distribute long passes to initiate attacks. The defensive line as a whole faltered during Canada`s first goal, highlighting a problem that needs immediate attention. He needs to elevate his game. Rating: 5
DEF: Mark McKenzie (90 mins)
Mark McKenzie made a few notable defensive plays, but overall, his contribution was unremarkable in a subdued game. Rating: 5
DEF: Max Arfsten (90 mins)
Max Arfsten struggled to adapt to the shift from a wing-back role in a five-defender system to a full-back position in a four-defender setup. He conceded possession too frequently. Rating: 4
MID: Tyler Adams (69 mins)
Tyler Adams had limited influence on the ball as Canada effectively utilized wing play. This game did not meet Tyler Adams` usual high standards of performance. Rating: 5
MID: Weston McKennie (69 mins)
Similar to Arfsten, Weston McKennie was careless in possession, giving the ball away, which Canada capitalized on. Rating: 4
MID: Diego Luna (90 mins)
Diego Luna stood out as one of the few players who demonstrated a strong desire to secure a place on the World Cup squad. He provided a key assist and actively sought to create attacking opportunities. Rating: 7
FWD: Christian Pulisic (69 mins)
Christian Pulisic delivered another quiet performance. With only 21 touches on the ball, he found it challenging to ignite the USMNT attack in a match where a spark was needed. If the team`s success hinges on Pulisic`s form, these performances are insufficient. Rating: 4
FWD: Patrick Agyemang (78 mins)
Patrick Agyemang scored an excellent goal and appeared threatening when presented with opportunities to make runs. However, he wasn`t supplied with enough balls inside the box, a recurring issue for the team. Rating: 7
FWD: Tim Weah (90 mins)
Tim Weah is another attacker who didn`t receive the ball in dangerous positions often enough. This indicates a systemic problem within the team`s attacking play, requiring adjustments. Rating: 6
SUB: Marlon Fossey (45 mins)
Marlon Fossey attempted to inject energy from the flanks in the second half, but the issue of ineffective play from wide positions persisted. Rating: 6
SUB: Gio Reyna (21 mins)
Gio Reyna delivered a good set-piece, aiming to create a goal-scoring opportunity, but had to drop too deep to get involved in the play. Rating: 6
SUB: Yunus Musah (21 mins)
Yunus Musah entered the game in the second half to provide fresh energy but didn`t make a significant impact. Rating: 6
SUB: Tanner Tessmann (21 mins)
Tanner Tessmann had limited touches on the ball after coming on as a substitute. Rating: Incomplete
SUB: Brian White (12 mins)
Brian White had limited time to influence the game, only touching the ball eight times. Rating: Incomplete
Manager: Mauricio Pochettino
Mauricio Pochettino experimented with the squad, and initially, the approach seemed promising. However, the team`s performance deteriorated as the game progressed. Mauricio Pochettino is attempting to downplay concerns, but the situation is becoming critical. Rating: 6
