Brazil 4 United States 1 – Recap & Ratings

Most importantly, they didn't give up, a trademark for the team under Bradley if they went down by more than a single goal. Even when down 2-0, they kept playing their game and didn't simply turtle and hope for a counter. A loss to learn from rather than a loss to be embarrassed from, which is what we've been hoping for.

Player ratings after the break:

Howard did what he needed to, and most of the goals were from plays he couldn't do much about. The defense ahead of him will need to take the credit for the 4-1 loss.

Cherundolo could have done a bit better, being part of the defense that was carved up in the final third. His offensive influence wasn't felt much either, save for one chance he got on a set piece that he skied over the bar.

There really wasn't much to say about Boca's game, he seemed invisible for much of the time. Need more out of the Captain.

I've heard complaining about the penalty kick that Onyewu gave up, but I thought it was completely legitimate since his arm was out and not tight to his side as he leaped toward the ball. That PK given up was the start of a bad night for Gooch.

Johnson was very impressive going forward into the attack from his spot at left back, getting the assist on the lone goal by Gomez. His defending left a little something to be desired, but it's been a few good showings in a row for the guy that will hopefully be the answer in the future at LB.

Micheal Bradley – 7

Good stuff from Bradley again; it's amazing how much more control he seems to have over his game now that he's not being coached by his dad. Made good chances on the goal though he never scored and made some wonderful steals in the midfield as well.

An unremarkable game from Maurice Edu, in that he didn't do anything particularly awesome but didn't make any blooper reel level errors either.

Jose Torres – 5.5

Torres was probably the least impressive forward out there, but still didn't have a howler.

Herculez Gomez – 8

A well made goal for Gomez and plenty more chances as the game went along made him my man of the match. I still think that the fact that he was left out of the team for so long is a travesty.

Landon Donovan – 7

Landy was his usual self. Great passing, great set pieces and was unlucky to get an assist or two thanks to some heroics by the Brazilian keeper.

*Subs*

Coming in early in the second half, Dempsey immediately gave the US more oomph going forward and helped lead them to their offensive burst — though it ended goalless — in the late stages. Should have done better on the chance he had inches in front of goal, though.