USMNT: 6 Takeaways From USA v. Colombia

Oct 15, 2013; Panama City, Panama; United States goalkeeper Brad Guzan is unable to stop a goal by Panama player Gabriel Torres (not seen) as Blas Perez (7) looks on during the first half of a World Cup qualifier soccer game at Estadio Rommel Fernandez. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports

5.  The USMNT Cannot Close Games Out

Yes, you may think it’s a problem that came with the World Cup hangover, but in all honesty it’s been a problem for much longer.  I bring you back to the April friendly vs. Mexico last year, surrendering a 2-goal lead after the half to settle for a draw.  Or at the World Cup itself plus the friendlies that followed, where every goal besides one that the United States allowed came after halftime.  Yes, that’s right.

What do Ghana, Portugal, Germany, Belgium, Ecuador, Honduras, and now Colombia all have in common?

Aside from one early Portugal goal, all scored their goals after the half.  And they came agonizingly close to conceding against the Czech Republic, while a late Ghana goal almost cost the USA two points (thank you once again John Brooks).  The United States team that is heralded for their fitness plays terribly after half when the game naturally begins to open up.