The US played with a mix of the determination shown during the Italy game and the ‘could care less’ nature of the Czech game.
Beasley played wonderfully given the situation, little midfield support and triple teaming by Ghana.
Donovan decided this game was not worth his time and refused to show up.
Dempsey scored our only goal of the tournament off a cross created by a beautiful run by Beasley. One-timed into the back of the goal.
Johnson was disappointing at forward showing neither speed nor field presence. I’m sorry Eddie, but Europe will not be calling.
And finally Reyna. What can I say about him that I haven’t already said. He was horrible, more so this game than any. He gave the ball to Ghana on the back line and allowed them to score. This was the highlight of his tournament, the highlight of his whole run up to the cup as well. He not once showed the skill, vision, or play making ability that was touted of this “Great Player”. Because he chose to play in this tournament, and Bruce agreed, he hindered our chance at another great cup. As well, he will now go down in American Soccer history as one of our worst performing midfielders, the player that prevented O’Brien from playing.
I’m up in the air on McBride this cup. He is, and will remain a great player, hindered by the lack of support (see previous paragraph). Though one has to wonder why Arena did not bother putting more field capable, faster, players like Dempsey and Wolf.
As for Arena, he will most likely resign in his post (and by that I mean no resign his contract) as head coach. What will his legacy be? For one, I think he will be known for putting together our first squad where a US coach had to make choices on who to play. Due to MLS and increasing players in Europe, the field of players from which to choose was larger than the number he could take. He also managed the team well, brought some good discipline and helped the US earn a now-unworthy place in the World spot light. His downfall will be his decisions this cup. The horrible position changes made for the Czech game, playing multiple players in the wrong position and not using half-time to rally the troops for a strong second half showing. Italy was better played, though some key substitutions could have been made, perhaps earning a better outcome. Worst of all though, he will have to live with playing Reyna for all three games, which to this US fan, was the most grievous of mistakes, the one that lead to a failed first round.
Lets hope the next 4 years are as good to us as the last have been. Our team is still young and many showed great promise. Lets hope next run presents us with an even stronger field of possible players, even better coaching, and more fan support. Remember, the mark of a strong team is one which takes the losses in stride and learns to pick itself up!