4. Lack of creative outlet in the midfield triangle was apparent. While Weston McKennie is a highly talented box-to-box midfielder, he was playing too far up the pitch to be effective and is simply not a creator in the final third. More than that, a Trapp-Morales-McKennie triangle completely lacked any creative outlet.

5. It’s okay to send the ball long. We were sitting right behind Zack Steffen’s goal in the first half in the the American Outlaw section and needless to say, it was downright frustrating to see short pass after short pass that put unnecessary pressure on our defense. Don’t get us wrong, we think Steffen is a fantastic keeper and a rock-solid #1 for the team, but sometimes it’s okay to just send the ball long. Especially when we have two pacey players in Pulisic and Boyd on the wing.

6. Christian Pulisic looked to change the game but was often isolated. Never shy to take on opposing players 1v1, he was one of the few players who looked ready to put up a fight. Often left isolated with few outlets up top, even Pulisic was unable to drive real spark on offense.

7. Tyler Adams is desperately needed. His energy, class on the ball, leadership, and tackling abilities were all thoroughly missed.

8. On a positive note, Alfredo Morales returned to the team with a solid comeback in a holding center mid role, where he got stuck into tackles, kept the ball moving and broke up plays. Unsure he will be a contender for a starting XI spot when Tyler Adams and Duane Holmes return, but he is definitely a contender for a permanent role in Berhalter’s squad.

9. Josh Sargent’s penalty miss was symbolic for a disappointing night. Coming off a great week in the Bundesliga, Josh Sargent missed a penalty in the last few minutes of the game in an almost symbolic fashion for how the rest of the game unfolded. Let’s hope Sargent gets the nod from the start against Uruguay on Tuesday for another chance to get on the score sheet.