Oct 10, 2014; Hartford, CT, USA; USA forward Landon Donovan before the start of the game against team Ecuador at Rentschler Field. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
While it was only a friendly for the USMNT, a lot of players on the roster had a lot to prove. With a crew of younger and newer faces being called-up for this match, they were each looking to leave a lasting, positive impression on the coaching staff.
MLS Multiplex
With a lot of international tournaments coming up between now and the 2018 World Cup in Russia, there will be a rotation of players hoping to make their case to play. On October 10th in Hartford, Connecticut, a mix of newcomers and veterans did just that against Ecuador. Right after one World Cup cycle is over, the next one soon begins and that is where the experimenting starts as well. Jurgen Klinsmann will be looking for the breakout star to be the next center piece come 2018.
Not only was this a chance for younger stars to put their names out there, this was also a night where soccer fans all across the country bid farewell to Landon Donovan, a player who undoubtedly brought the USMNT to new heights. Earlier in the year, Donovan announced this would be his last year at the LA Galaxy. Not too long after, it was announced that on October 10th, Landon Donovan would have the opportunity to play for the USMNT one last time. It was certainly a night of mixed emotions for many of us: sad to see him go but thankful for all he has done.
There is a lot to take away from the match, but check out 5 things from USMNT vs Ecuador that are worthy to remember and talk about going forward.