USMNT Experiences Tough Loss to Portugal
ATLANTA — On Tuesday, the U.S. economy appeared to be in better condition than it was just two days prior, potentially easing any looming concerns.
However, the 2-0 defeat to Portugal highlighted a more evident, yet troubling reality.
The talent of their players has certainly improved, but the Americans still didn’t match up to the quality of the Portuguese team.
This loss isn’t a total shock to anyone, which does make it a bit easier to digest. Still, despite a positive fall camp, two consecutive losses weigh heavily on the American side, especially with most of their key players available.
What’s really concerning is that many questions raised during this camp remain unanswered as the team heads into pre-World Cup preparations, slated to begin once the lineup is announced in late May.
The situation surrounding the No. 9 forward position remains unresolved. Manager Mauricio Pochettino lined up Christian Pulisic as a striker in the first half, with Pulisic still searching to end a scoring drought that’s stretched for 18 months in U.S. matches and four months at his club.
After two matches utilizing this forward line featuring Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Malik Tillman, it’s unclear if this group, often seen as America’s most skilled, is actually the best fit.
Gio Reyna and Johnny Cardoso were among players who had much to prove, but left the camp without clear roles established. Reyna saw limited action, coming onto the pitch late in both matches without making significant contributions, while Cardoso, after a strong performance on Saturday, had to exit early due to injury.
U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese stood out with a solid performance, affirming his position as a first-choice keeper. The American team enjoyed some positive moments on the attack and pressed well at times, causing problems for Portuguese keeper Jose Sa.
There’s a silver lining in knowing both of Portugal’s goals stemmed from exceptional individual plays. The first came from a clever backheel by Bruno Fernandes, followed by Joao Félix’s half-volley that struck the post and went in from a corner.
Félix’s goal in the 59th minute effectively ended any hopes for the USA, and the lack of decisiveness underscored an already challenging offensive effort over the weekend.
Pochettino’s tactical decisions were notable, as the Americans retained a 4-2-3-1 formation but saw six changes from their Saturday lineup, with Pulisic as the sole striker.
Tim Weah adapted to a right-wing position while Alex Freeman performed well as an outside back. Aidan Morris and Sebastian Berhalter took on defensive midfield roles, and the two center backs were Chris Richards and Auston Trusty.
Pulisic’s positioning gave him more chances, yet he continued to struggle to break his scoring drought. He created opportunities but missed an early shot and deflected another to McKennie. Pulisic, McKennie, and Anthony Robinson were substituted at halftime, with Patrick Agyeman stepping in as striker.
Right after Pulisic’s near miss, the U.S. lost some focus despite showing promise and vigor earlier. Just before halftime, McKennie lost possession, allowing Fernandes to set up a brilliant backheel for Francisco Trincao, who converted to put Portugal ahead 1-0. It felt reminiscent of Belgium’s second goal from the previous game, showcasing the Americans’ habit of conceding right after creating chances.
On a brighter note, the outside backs generally managed to stay in support, addressing a key issue from Saturday’s match.
Despite some controversy around him, Berhalter produced the Americans’ most significant opportunity in the first half, forcing a save from Sa with a long-range effort.
