David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
The United States were once again without their midfield general Michael Bradley, but were yet again victorious over Mexico in Columbus 2-0.
Mexico commenced the game like a nation on a mission, but nothing would go their way in front of Tim Howard‘s frame. Javier Hernandez, Gio Dos Santos and Oribe Peralta were unable to use their enthusiasm to motivate the true creativity of the Mexican attack.
The U.S. finally were able to play their game, which is what they could not do in Costa Rica four nights ago: passing, running, patience, shooting, holding the ball and using every single advantage they had.
However, the team were without two key fielders in Jozy Altidore and Bradley. These two guys are expected to start in every single WC game if they can avoid injury and suspension. Even though these two guys did not partake in the game, their teammates filled the void to absolute perfection in tonight’s convincing victory.
Coach Jurgen Klinsmann put together a group of guys and made sure they were the right men for the job. Led by Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey and Tim Howard, the team put together each and every one of their strengths to outscore a talented Mexican side and also managed to keep them off the board.
There is one truly sour moment from the game which really should not matter: Dempsey completely whiffed a penalty kick that would have given them their biggest win in recent years against their arch-rival neighbors. Regardless, this win has cemented their place in next year’s WC in Brazil.
To top it all off, the U.S. has yet again beaten Mexico by the same score in the same stadium for the fourth straight hexagonal running: 2-0 in Columbus (2001, 2005, 2009 and 2013). This is an impressive feat all on its own.
Now, with games remaining against Jamaica at home and Panama away, the U.S. can play these games with a bit more relaxation knowing that they are already in. Jamaica are all but eliminated, while Panama could play for their lives when they host the Americans.
