Pre-Game Chalk Talk

Ok it’s almost game time at Giants Stadium, lets get into things.

Bob Bradley: You can expect the tactics to be fairly conservative, as always with Bob, but don’t call for his head just yet. People are getting antsy with the gaffer because they think he is building a team without the killer instinct to go for the gut and go for the win. The thing that people need to realize, is that these games have been against England, Spain, and Argentina. This isn’t Barbados okay? We have more than enough talent and tactics to steamroll most of the teams in Concacaf, now we are focusing on getting to the next level of international competition. We arn’t going to get results against powerhouses by playing Ruud Gullit “Sexy Football” and flying up the flanks with Ronaldo-esque flicks and stepovers. They need to grind out results if there are points to be had against the powerhouses. Thats what you need at the World Cup. Its all about taking steps. We’re getting there.

Players to Watch

Landon Donovan: Landon should have been a player to watch this whole 3 game set, but his groin kept him out of action until now. It is finally 100th cap time, at home, against the the world #1. I wouldn’t worry about Donovan getting up for this one. He could just add that extra dimension to the USA attack that could help them find the back of the net and a result.

Lionel Messi: Kid is sick. When Barca came to play the Red Bulls at Giants Stadium a couple years ago, he was the apple of the crowd’s eye, not Ronaldinho. The metropolitan area has a ton of Argies, and you can bet they will be out in full force to shower him with “MESSI! MESSI! MESSI!” over and over and over again.

Freddy Adu: This should make for a second straight start for the young wonderkid, and hopefully this time he can give it a go the full 90. Look forward to some possible combination play between Freddy and Landon, their speed and vision is unlike any two other players on the nats. If the USA is to have a glorious night, these are going to be the two that do it for them. They have a lack of fear unlike anyone else on the roster. Could be a show.

Last Word: It is all about possesion. Being back in the USA should help, but if they can’t keep (or get) the pelota. If they can, and the D is on it, this could be something special. Or another painful watcher.