What a way to perform on your World Cup debut against a tough team like Paraguay. It’s true, the USMNT dismantled Paraguay 3-1 in a masterclass performance from Mauricio Pochettino's side. However, the achievement should not be underestimated.
Since Gustavo Alfaro took charge, Paraguay had established itself as one of the toughest defensive teams in international soccer, conceding just two goals in 19 matches before this encounter. Nevertheless, what the USMNT did is really admirable.
This clash changed people’s perceptions about the US soccer team, and they could be considered as World Cup contenders.
That’s why, after this beautiful match by the USMNT, here are three takeaways from their victory against Paraguay.
I won’t discuss Captain America, Christian Pulisic, cause he proved his worth, but everyone knows he could play like this.
Balance and composure across the pitch
One of the problems with past USMNT teams, which we saw in Qatar, occurred in the second half of the match, where the team takes its foot off the gas.
However, tonight that wasn’t the case; the USMNT didn’t back down and destroyed Paraguay in every place on the field.
One thing is remarkable about Mauricio Pochettino: he built a team that attacks but also has the teamwork to defend. From the defense to the offense, the balance this team showed was the reason they won this game.
From Robinson to Freeman, to McKennie and Pulisic, to Balogun, every player on this team played as a unit.
McKennie's free-flowing play gave Pulisic the freedom to avoid tracking back defensively and focus on the attack. Dest's offensive ability left Paraguay's fullbacks standing still.
Balogun's control and finishing were on display, and captain Ream provided defensive solidity; Pochettino found a balanced team that plays well and does not falter in any position.
Weston McKennie is a must
The performance the Juventus player just did was to be recorded and shown in the academies. He was everywhere and always influenced every play.
His free-flowing allowed the USMNT to find him behind the Paraguayan midfielders and create a dangerous attack.
McKennie’s tireless defensive presence was instrumental, enabling Adam and Robinson to neutralize Almirón and Enciso.
His ability to anticipate danger and close down space stifled Paraguay’s most dangerous attacks and helped preserve the USMNT’s lead.
McKennie played like he was a little kid. He was vibing with the flow of the game, locked in, and didn’t flinch in any moment of the game.
He put in strong tackles and helped build the attack, the exact description of what is asked of a midfielder.
Malik Tillman surprised everyone
Another face that surprised everyone is Malik Tillman. Just like McKennie, Tillman couldn’t be found. The Albirroja could mark him, because he was always running in every sector of the attack.
It didn’t matter that he was a midfielder; he ended up as another striker or as a winger to generate more games.
Having the 24-year-old on the field tonight was like playing with one more player. Ready to pressure and run for his teammates, Tillman's ability to beat a defender and set up a teammate is admirable.
The truth is that Tillman played a round game, and the USMNT proved they are the group’s favourite, and this is also a warning call for every team in the World Cup.
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