Hey y’all! Happy Friday! Welcome or welcome back!

I’m sorry I didn’t post earlier today. I have been following the USMNT and USWNT for a long time and wanted to talk about the USMNT. Y’all may not know but I’m a long time soccer player (17 years, was in ODP). Obviously, the women finished the year on a high, but I’m here to talk about the men’s team. Buckle up, it’s been a wild ride. Without further ado, let’s get right into it.

Where do I even begin? The fact that going into tonight we were in a MUST WIN situation… Well, what’s there to even say about that? We lost to Canada, in Toronto. As it seems, the USMNT is still on their “I don’t play well on road games” streak. I’d like that to end and soon. We have so much talent on this team and to see this happening is honestly tragic. I don’t even know how to describe it at this point. With players like Sargent, Pulisic, Dest (thanks for coming to America!), Brooks, Adams, Long, Steffan etc… This really shouldn’t be hard. I’m honestly staring at the screen on my iPad trying to think of what to write that’s kind, but I’m not sure I think there’s anything kind I can truly say. Watching the match in Toronto last month hurt. Pulling Pulisic in the 60th minute? Someone who, after that, SHOWED OUT for Chelsea? I was hoping the sub sign was a joke. Guys like Pulisic, Sargent, Morris etc will create chances for the US and to take one of, if not the best, guy on the field off? Really?

Anyways, let’s move on from the past and talk about tonight. Without Steffan, Bradley, and Pulisic, I was concerned. I won’t even lie about that. Canada has surely improved, but have the USMNT? Tonight, I could see a clear direction. Something that was clearly lacking in Toronto. It was great to see follow throughs and targeted runs towards the net. The passing and challenges definitely looked better. They were clearly making better decisions and better runs. They were anticipating, which is exactly what I expect from a national team. We’ve made some improvements, but I still think there’s a ways to go to compete on the national stage with some of the best in the world.

Do I believe in Gregg? Still on the fence. I’m not sure I do. I would never wish ill will on someone, but I do think he still has a lot to prove as a head coach. We’ll see in the coming months as CONCACAF qualifying and Olympic qualifying starts. I’m looking forward too it. I hope he reevaluates the roster and considers more players outside the MLS. But, only time will tell if the men can be great again.

As for tonight’s game, my favorite players? Easily Dest. He truly makes an impact in the backfield. It’s obvious he deserves to start. Morris is a key player up front. I also have to say Brad Guzan stepped up in goal. While I think Zardes had a good game, don’t expect it from him all the time.

As for myself during these games- I am SUPER active on twitter. I honestly don’t think I would be without American Hooligans, the American Outlaws and my new friend Chris. Y’all make Twitter fun and interesting, especially during the games. I’d be lost without your insight. You’re all legends.

Twitter handles to follow these great people to keep up with the fun:

American Hooligans- @AmericanHoolis

American Outlaws @AmericanOutlaws

Chris- Naughtgonnalie

Thank y’all for being the legends you are and entertaining me, my comments and this USMNT. I appreciate y’all.

Do you think the USMNT will qualify for the Cup? The Olympics? How do you think they’ll do in CONCACAF? Let me know in the comments below! Until next time…

Safe Flights & Happy Reading Nights!

XO

B