LA Galaxy Insider Adam Serrano provides his Three Things We Learned from the United States’ 2-1 victory over Ecuador. The U.S. advances to the Copa America Centenario semifinals where they’ll face the winner of Argentina/Venezuela on June 21 in Houston.
GYASI ZARDES FINDS THE BACK OF THE NET IN VICTORY
Gyasi Zardes found the back of the net for the first time in the Copa America Centenario, scoring the USMNT’s game-winner in their 2-1 win over Ecuador.
Shifting to a right midfield role in Jurgen Klinsmann’s 4-4-2 formation, Zardes was constant threat for the U.S. with his darting runs that stretched the Ecuadorian defense and tireless work rate. In the 65th minute, Zardes was rewarded for his industry when the Galaxy striker nodded a ball toward Clint Dempsey, who then crossed the ball across the face of goal to Zardes, who tapped it in from close range.
Zardes’ impressive showing along the wing will be a welcome sight for Jurgen Klinsmann, who will likely rely on the Galaxy man’s adaptability in the semifinal with Ale Bedoya, Jermaine Jones, and Bobby Wood all suspended.
U.S. SHOW THEIR METTLE IN WIN
The U.S. is two wins away from the Copa America Centenario title.
The match against Ecuador was anything but easy for the Americans, but the USMNT showed their mettle to hold firm against one of the tournament’s most talented sides. Klinsmann’s squad was particularly impressive in the closing minutes as they weathered a furious push by Ecuador to seal their place in the semifinals.
Regardless of who they come up against, be it Argentina or Venezuela, the USMNT will face a tall task to reach the tournament final. However, given their newfound ability to score timely goals, the U.S. can feel that they can beat anyone on their day
MICHAEL BRADLEY MAKES HEROIC STATEMENT WITH RAINBOW ARMBAND
Michael Bradley made a powerful statement in wake of the tragic events in Orlando without saying a word.
Bradley scrapped his standard captain’s armband for a rainbow armband in honor of the victims of last week’s tragic shooting in Orlando. The U.S. National Team has been vocal this week in showing their support of those who lost their lives in last week’s attack on an LBGT club in Orlando.
In light of all the discourse surrounding the horrid events of the last week, fans across the globe and especially in the United States can be proud of Bradley’s actions.
Adam Serrano is the LA Galaxy Insider. Read his blog atLAGalaxy.com/Insiderand contact him atLAGalaxyInsider@Gmail.com
