12/21/24
March 27, 2013
U.S. Achieves Historic Draw in Mexico: For only the second time ever, the U.S. men's soccer team earned a point in a World Cup qualifier in Mexico at Azteca Stadium. Behind the play of keeper Brad Guzan and defenders Omar Gonzalez and Matt Besler, the Americans played to a 0-0 draw on the road. Mexico had 15 corner kicks, including three in the final two minutes.
Reorganized backline seems as though it is going to be more capable than the doomsayers claimed.
posted by beaverboard at 07:59 AM on March 27, 2013
The back line got into a lot of tough spots, but they did a great job recovering. As I did not have particularly high expectations, I'm thrilled to come out of there with a point.
posted by bender at 09:10 AM on March 27, 2013
That was intense. I agree with you about the non-call, but it's shocking Mexico didn't get the benefit of the doubt on that one at home. I was not too worried about the lack of offense. It seemed clear that they were going with a very conservative game plan, largely eschewing counter-attacks to prevent getting caught out by a quick counter-counter-attack, especially with the concerns about the fullbacks going into the match. The US did have some sustained periods of good possession on the Mexican side of the field, especially in the second half.
posted by Rock Steady at 09:10 AM on March 27, 2013
Definitely got some favorable calls, though I thought the ref also let a few Mexican players off far too easily in the first half; a couple of yellows would've made them a bit less aggressive. But I will be very happy to take the point and look forward to June and then the rematch in Columbus.
Still think whoever scheduled Friday's game in Denver ought to be fired, that was a terrible decision. Dick's is a great venue, not complaining about them getting a game, but not in March.
posted by billsaysthis at 12:42 PM on March 27, 2013
Still think whoever scheduled Friday's game in Denver ought to be fired, that was a terrible decision. Dick's is a great venue, not complaining about them getting a game, but not in March.
I assumed it was to get the team used to playing at altitude for Azteca.
posted by Rock Steady at 09:40 AM on March 28, 2013
Photos of/by friends of mine that were at the game.
posted by goddam at 02:05 PM on March 28, 2013
I was disappointed in the lack of U.S. scoring opportunities, but getting a point in Mexico is huge. I couldn't tell if Maurice Edu got his foot on the ball in the penalty non-call that had the Mexicans so outraged late in the match. It seemed more possible than the announcers were acknowledging.