The USA is in good shape, heading full steam ahead into the World Cup Qualifying break. Sitting on top of the final hexagonal group with a record of 4-1-1. Taking all 3 points from Panama, Jamaica and Honduras from the last 3 games they look poised to complete a successful qualification for Brazil 2014.
Reflecting On The Attacking play of the Red, White and Blues so far, it has been headlined by the play of Jozy Altidore. He has become an alpha male on the frontline of the USA attack. Tallying goals against Panama, Jamaica and Honduras as well as being able to control the pace of the attacks by holding the ball well under pressure. His willingness the play physically was a reoccurring trait, something not seen in strikers in the past. As well as him, the introduction to international football for Graham Zusi has started the new tread of wide play. The Sporting Kansas City standout has provided himself worthy of earning a starting XI spot. He ability to play quality balls to the head and feet of Altidore and Dempsey has helped establish and sustain a real threat for other CONCACAF back-lines. On the other side of the field Fabian Johnson's versatileness of playing as a midfielder and defender gives Klinsmann options for his use. Johnson displayed this against Panama when his low driven left footed cross was finished by Jozy Altidore. Playing in the formation of 4-2-3-1 has opened up the ability for the USA to attack in groups with most of the pushes forward being generated through Michael "The Maestro" Bradley. Bradley has been the main cog in the USA's success. Playing from the central defensive midfield role along side the likes of Geoff Cameron and Jermaine Jones, he been able to get forward into play more often. He will continue to be a crucial element in the equation that is winning. The biggest sign of how vital Bradley is came during the Honduras match. He displayed through the 90 minutes how he can get stuck in as a defender but still get into the attack at will. His strong partnership with Jermaine Jones has developed to the point of total understand as to how each player plays. Thus meaning both plays know when coverage will be needed, cutting down the amount of times the USA has looked venerable being caught on the counter attack. Last but not least, Clint Dempsey has showed why he was voted the 2011-2012 Player of The Year for Fulham F.C. as well as why he transfer to Tottenham F.C. was highly followed in the media. Leading the USA in scoring, his skill has been showcased time and time again.
Defending coming into World Cup Qualifying was looking to be somewhat of a mystery. The pairing of Matt Besler and Omar Gonzalez has risen to the challenge of WCQ in great fashion. The two has stood tall in the face of there CONCACAF opponents. The young duo has had next to none international experience but has shown get promise moving forward. Establishing good communication and getting a feel for each others strengths and weakness. Gonzalez's ariel prowess is complemented perfectly by Besler's speed and distribution. As for the left and right backs, DeMarcus Beasley has revived his international career under Klinsmann. He proved his keep to his starting XI through the past sum of matches. His veteran experience and composure has been a necessity with the young defenders. Brad Evans, Seattle Sounders FC, was not in the original teamsheets for most reporters and analysis heading into WCQ. His last minute goal against Jamaica was quiet a beauty. He has served as good coverage for the injured and usual starting right back Steve Cherundolo. In net as always Tim Howard has been solid as usual.
Moving Forward I see a bright future for Uncle Sam's Army. With 4 matches remaining in WCQ the USA has a commanding position in the group. I see them grabbing 10 out of the remaining 12 points and running full steam ahead into World Cup 2014 with great possibilities. It is time the USA makes a statement for the world to see. With the bright lights of the World Cup looming, the new era of winning has arrived and it is about time.
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