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Originally Posted by USAManUtd13
I think you're doing a bit of a disservice to the US's performance. They played remarkably well; especially considering their showing against England just a few weeks ago. They didn't dominate by any stretch, but they were admirable and had their chances (Johnson, who I'm still not counting out, really needs to capitalize, if only to shut the detractors up. And Gooch's header off the bar was heartbreaking). They were able to hold possession much better than they were able to against Spain and the movement was miles better. Dempsey didn't look tired as he did against Spain, Beasley had his first real good showing of these friendlies (I think he benefits the most from the play of Donovan for some reason), and Bradley finally showed why he's a prospect for Everton and Middlesbrough.
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The true disservice would be to make too much about this result. It's definitely encouraging, but there's still plenty of work to be done. If nothing else, it was a gritty and determined performance, kinda like the draw against Italy in the last World Cup. One of those days where you really doubted a win was possible against a much stronger opponent on paper, but they fought their asses off for everything.
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As for Donovan, he was brilliant. His pace and vision makes the entire team stronger. Whether you think he failed in Europe or not, there's no question that he is a great player who could make an impact on any number of teams in the top flight across Europe; and I hope he does, sooner rather than later. Mascherano's tackle on him was frightening; completely deserving of a red.
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While it wasn't entirely positive affirmation from me, I would like to categorically state once and for all that I did in fact give Landon Donovan credit for a change. This dwelling on what I said about his history in Europe is besides the point.