There is no shame in a 3-0 schooling, considering the Czechs are way better, but the shame is in the manner they surrendered. If I were Bruce Arena, the coach of US team, I would be worried — very worried.
Last time these two teams met in a friendly match in 2002, Italy won the battle 1-0 — not a seriously deflating defeat but I assume they were being nice to Americans, if that's at all possible. This time, however, Donovan and his friends will not do anyone, in particular the majority of their fans who are obsessed with other ball games, any favor with another lackluster performance.
The Americans don't have a choice but to pull up their socks and play with more purpose than they did with the Czech Republic. It would be foolish to try to outplay the Italians as they are superior in every department of the game. Instead, they should be more physical, and try frustrating their opposition — more importantly not to give them an inch of free space in the midfield from where every attacking move originates.
In other words, if it comes down to being downright ugly, they better be BAD if they want to keep their hopes alive.
I don't see the US winning, but a gritty draw will go a long way to salvage some of the respect lost.
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Article comments
1 - Matthew T. Sussman
It's always an accomplishment to not lose in the World Cup to a team whose country is SHAPED LIKE A GODDAMN FOOT.
2 - Q Bit
Suss:
:-)
US played very well and deservedly own at least a point from the match. When I was watching the game, I thought the Uruguyan referee ruined it for them, but after going through the replays again and again, I am now convinced that the red card on Pablo was the right thing to do. Pablo's two-footed, spikes up plunge was absolutely needless.
By the way US has never won against the FOOT. This is their third draw in eight meetings (all inclusive).
3 - RJ Elliott
Can the US beat Ghana? Of course.
Can Italy beat the Czech Republic? Of course.
Can the US advance out of their group, to face Brazil in the next phase? Of course.
Can the US beat Brazil? ARE YOU FUCKING INSANE???
4 - Q Bit
RJ:
Can the US beat Ghana? - have you checked the odds? Ghana manhandled Czechs 2-0, who screwed US 3-0.
US has played a much better game since then but if you think an US win will come easy, I'm sorry to differ.
Again, Italy beating the Czechs won't be easy either. I think it will end in a draw.
5 - Matthew T. Sussman
I'll tell Team USA to throw the game if Ghana, in return, agrees to keep Brangelina.
6 - Q Bit
There is always Canada for Brangelina.