In what was supposed to be a cakewalk for Spain, who already probably thought they had one foot in the door for the finals of the 2009 Confederations Cup, the United States played a nearly perfect game. Tim Howard was unbeatable, the defense was unfazed, the midfielders were dominating, and the forwards were dangerous. Like I and many other people have said before, when this team plays with heart, they are world-beaters, and they proved that today with a comprehensive victory over number 1 ranked Spain. Spain had it all, the records, the international superstars, the speed of play, the chemistry, the experience, but there was one thing that the US had more of....heart. Sheer determination won this game, not the pretty passing, or the slick moves. US players were flying all over the place, diving in front of shots, jumping to win headers, and when that failed, Tim Howard earned the right to change his middle name to Everest, because he was HUGE. I've watched the game twice already and plan to again, and again, and again. This is one for the history books, and finally, something to brag about...other than to Mexico fans for sucking, but hey, this is nice too.
Tim Howard (9)- Simply put, he didn't do anything wrong all night. Rivals the Argentina game in terms of sheer brilliance.
Jonathan Spector (7)- Best game of the tournament for Spector, was active defensively and fought bravely all 94 minutes. Cherundolo will be hard pressed to win back this spot.
Jay DeMerit (9)- He and Onyewu have formed this impentreble wall througout the tournament, and I just may believe that this back four is one for the present and future.
Oguchi Onyewu (9)- Master of the sky's and dominant on the ground as well, he also had his best performance of the tournament. Shutting down Torres and Villa for 90+ is no simple task by any means.
Carlos Bocanegra (6.5)- Got beat a couple times, but after the first 20 minutes he settled in and aided in frustrating the machine that WAS Spains attack.
Clint Dempsey (7.5)- Clint's best game of the tournament, he was physical, determined, and dangerous from the opening stanza. The goal came through sheer determination and really put the US in a commanding position.
Michael Bradley (7)- He loses points for the harsh red card, but Bradley Jr. was a monster in the middle of the park all game, he and Clark should start from here on out. Against Xavi, he stripped the ball several times helped contain Torres and Villa.
Ricardo Clark (8)- Clark's best performance of the tournament. Easily has won the starting role next to Bradley and will be hard pressed to relinquish it. He flew around the pitch making tackle after tackle and never looked out of place.
Landon Donovan (8)- Donovan is finally showing up for the big games, he led the counterattacks effectively and his passing was great. Really stepped up his game tonight, very impressive tournament.
Jozy Altidore (7)- Still needs to work on his touch, but he was much improved tonight and his goal was a demonstration in sheer physical strength. Gave Puyol and Pique fits all game.
Charlie Davies (7)- Again, nothing but hustle, grit, heart, and determination. Had the great link-up play with Dempsey prior to Altidore's goal.
Benny Feilhaber (7.5)- Super-sub galore! Bennys run through the Spain defense led to Dempsey's goal. Even after that, he was back defending.
Conor Casey- (6)- Brought on to provide possesion and pressure, and he did an ok job.
The US is in the finals of a major international competetion for the first time ever (other than the Gold Cup), and in stunning fashion by outscoring Egypt (who scored three on Brazil, and beat Italy) and Spain 5-0. The US will play in the final on June 28, probably vs Brazil. We all know how that went last time, but look, this is an entirely different US side and will surely want to show Brazil how they can really play.
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