USMNT Vs Brazil: 3 takeaways from 2-0 loss

USMNT Vs Brazil: 3 takeaways from 2-0 loss – Growing pains

Brazil's midfileder Philippe Coutinho (R) vies for the ball against US midfileder Tyler Adams during the international friendly match between Brazil and the US at the Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on September 7, 2018. (Photo by EDUARDO MUNOZ ALVAREZ / AFP) (Photo credit should read EDUARDO MUNOZ ALVAREZ/AFP/Getty Images) /

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – SEPTEMBER 07: Brazil forward Neymar (10) hurdles the United States defender Matt Miazga (3) during the first half of the International Friendly Soccer match between the the United States and Brazil on September 7, 2018 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

1. Miazga MOTM

Matt Miazga had a terrific showing on the backline. He may have gotten beat by Firmino for the first goal, but that was another example of a learning experience that he will pick up on in France this season.

He hustled and closed down Neymar quite well throughout the match, which is no easy task, and he marshaled the defense well, showing good organisational qualities and athleticism when things broke down.

Overall, Miazga is entering a critical point in his career and he is headed in the right direction to lead the USMNT defensively.

USMNT: Midfield is where it's at. dark. Next

Up next, the USMNT will face Mexico on Tuesday in what always promises to be an exciting match when these two sides meet.

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