USMNT fans have a tendency to pop off after games like this, frustrated at the perceived inability to properly put a pronounced underdog to the sword on home turf.
“We still need to go to another gear.
To me, it was way too slow, way too backwards and not enough intent to turn Haiti around and get them defending in the penalty box.
But this is a new group that didn’t have any warm-up friendlies before this tournament – and given how many soft-tissue knocks are piling up, that decision is understandable.
“Nicholas, first of all, he’s still in preseason, he’s not 90-minutes fit, so we had to remove him from the game and move Gyasi \ to the wing,” said Berhalter of the Caen forward.
I’m not sure yet if Gioacchini is suited for a wing role, but it’s clear that Zardes hasn’t played there in quite a long time .
He dominated the right flank in the first half and should’ve picked up multiple assists with his probing deliveries into the Haiti box; he earned U.S.
“Shaq got the notification that he was in the starting XI hours before the game,” said Berhalter.
Sands, too, is new to this level but showcased the same cerebral intelligence that is so massive for NYCFC’s organization and composure at the back.
Overall, lineup changes are likely not only because of Sunday’s weak spots, but the physical demands this bi-annual tournament places on the players.
“We’re still getting accustomed to each other,” said Kellyn Acosta, another dependable performer.