Wednesday, May 30, 2012

3 Things to Watch: Brazil at USA

For anyone tuning in to watch tonight's match as the United States Men's National Team takes on Brazil, the disparity between the sides needn't be further examined. Brazil, the five-time world champion, play the game with an unmatched spontaneity, as if their feet smile every time they touch the ball. Their individual and collective flair used to embarrass opponents is second nature and they continually produce some of the world's finest attacking footballers. See Neymar & Hulk.

In contrast, the United States possesses fewer players technically gifted enough to break their defender down and instead are learning a system that relies on movement, possession and quick, decisive passing. Their creativity is more likely to be fostered at the team level rather than within the individual. Tonight their growth, new 'style-of-play' and tactics will be put to the proverbial test.

Three things to watch in tonight's game:
  1. Will Fabian Johnson's defensive responsibilities affect his impact with the attack?
    • Johnson got forward effectively versus Scotland, filling the wide space when Torres drifted centrally or just using his quickness to join the attack. His pace and confidence on the ball make him a unique threat for the USMNT, but will having to mark the dynamic Brazilian scorers reduce his role?
  2.  How high can the US pressure the Brazilian backline?
    • Ultimately the success of this US team will be predicated on their ability to gain and then retain possession. They'll be able to do so by maintaining a higher line with their wings and putting their opponent's defense under pressure. Against some of the CONCACAF qualifying teams and the likes of Scotland this is an easier proposition than against a team with world-class defenders like Brazil, all of whom are comfortable in tight spaces.
  3. How many times will Jonathan Bornstein get beat in space?
    • Thankfully this is one thing USMNT fans can be assured they will not have to see tonight. If fans thank Klinsmann for nothing else, they can at least appreciate that.
You can catch the game on ESPN2 or ESPN3. Enjoy!

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