The United States men's national team step back onto the pitch this afternoon with a point to prove. After March's sobering defeats at the hands of Be...
The United States men's national team step back onto the pitch this afternoon with a point to prove. After March's sobering defeats at the hands of Belgium and Portugal, where they shipped five goals against the Red Devils and looked utterly toothless against the Portuguese, this friendly against Senegal and next weekend's clash with Germany represent the final chance to find some semblance of coherence before the flight to the World Cup. Kickoff is expected at 3:38 pm Eastern, and the faithful will be watching closely, perhaps through their fingers.The most pressing question hangs over Christian Pulisic. The American talisman has been stuck in a scoring rut that seems to weigh heavier with every passing match. Is it a crisis of confidence or simply a tactical issue where service has dried up Today's game should offer clues. Meanwhile, the experiment with Alex Freeman is worth a close look. Reports suggest he may be deployed at right centre back rather than his natural full back or wing back berths. That would represent a significant shift in tactical flexibility, and one that might unearth a solution to a problem position that has troubled the backline for months.The super sub narrative is another subplot brimming with intrigue. Gio Reyna has the technical quality to unlock any low block, but can he command the role with consistency or will another player emerge as the trusted option The bench, as any seasoned observer knows, can win or lose a tournament. If the US can find a game changer to bring on when legs tire and the low block tightens, they may just trouble the oddsmakers. Squeaky bum time is upon them, and this is where reputations are forged or shattered.
