The U.S. U-20s were eliminated today by Italy, losing 3-1 in largely a disappointing performance, including 2 own goals.
At the very end of the first half Freddy Adu won a penalty kick. His attempt was saved, but the referee ordered a rekick because the goalie had come off his line too early. Adu was replaced by left back Hunter Freeman, who slotted the ball home off the goalie’s outstretched arm. Italy came out of half-time a different team, and the U.S. folded under the pressure. The first Italian goal was a long range shot that was deflected by Manchester United defender Jonathan Spector, catching goalkeeper Quentin Westberg off-guard, and found it’s way into the U.S. net. Later, Spector, back after getting injured in the first game, was dispossesed in midfield leading to an Italian break and their second goal. Italy’s third goal was once again a disastrous own goal. Substitute Sacha Kljestan stuck out a foot to deflect an Italian cross away for a corner, but instead redirected the ball into his own net. All of this in a span of 20 minutes, and the U.S. had no response.
After starting out strong, the tournament has to be considered a disappointment for the U.S. 3 goals for in 4 games is not going to cut it. If not for their defense (which hadn’t allowed a goal before today’s second half collapse), the U.S. may not have made it out the group stage. By most accounts, right back Marvell Wynne (an animal down the flank) and midfielder Benny Feilhaber were the best U.S. players in the tournament.
Which means Adu, Eddie Gaven, and Spector performed well below expectations. Coach Sigi Schmid and Adu both said he didn’t show up in today’s game. Adu called himself awful in the tournament. Who knows if Gaven ever really got off the plane, and Spector struggled in his first game back.
Disappointing. But it should be interesting to follow these kids’ careers and see how they progress…
