By Tommy Kane

Published: June 9th, 2018

Volume II: Issue XXXIII

The United States Men’s National Team drew France in Lyon, 1-1. It was the last of the three friendlies for the US, while it was a great practice run for France, before the World Cup. The US showed great effort, scoring their first ever goal against France and drawing them for the first time. They have yet to have beaten them though. Zack Steffen played a great game for the team, stopping seven of France’s eight shots, as well as preserving the tie. It was an optimistic result for the United States!

Julian Green Strikes First:

The game started off with the French controlling the game, having multiple opportunities to score. Goalie, Zack Steffen, had his work cut out for him early on. Although France had multiple corners and free-kicks, the United States was able to get out and create plays. Late in the 44th minute, Julian Green spun around and kicked the ball past Hugo Lloris, giving the States their first ever goal against the French. The Americans and the French were in disbelief that France hadn’t scored and that the Americans were leading at the half. France is one of the favorites to win the World Cup, as well as one of the best in the world.

Olivier Giroud Butts Heads with Matt Miazga:

Early in the second-half, French Striker, Olivier Giroud, butt heads with American Defenseman, Matt Miazga. The collision was very bloody and scary to say the least. The two bumped heads violently while trying to head the ball near the US goal. Both players left the match and didn’t return to the pitch. Giroud is of concern because he is a key player for France. A concussion could sideline him for the Group Stage. France needs to be updated on that situation.

France Scores Late:

The United States were enjoying a beautiful 1-0 lead, when French Striker, Kylian Mbappe-Lottin, scored the tying goal in the 78th minute. He received a pass in front of the US net, when he then tapped the ball in past Steffen. The goal shattered the hopes of an American win, as the US could not get any opportunity in the second-half. For the rest of the match, the US had to preserve the lead. Steffen had to make pivotal stops close to the end to ensure the draw. After four minutes of stoppage time, the United States celebrated a deserving draw against a difficult foe. France, on the other hand, did not seem too happy, but would move on to focus towards the World Cup, which starts in less than a week.

Should the US Be Happy About the Match?:

The United States played a very tough game for an inexperienced, young team. Deandre Yedlin was the only player on the squad that had played in more than fifty matches for the team. The goal by Julian Green was refreshing, as it showed that the US has some positives to work with. On the negative side though, the US needs to do a better job creating opportunities for their Strikers. It was unfortunate to not see any action from Bobby Wood; that will need to change. He is a dangerous Striker and has the potential to be a factor for the team moving forward.

The United States Men’s National Team is done for the summer. They will look towards the fall, where they have matches scheduled against teams like Brazil and China. Those matches will be another huge test to see if the US bends and breaks against world-class opponents. For now, the US needs to worry about finding a great manager to lead the team to the 2022 World Cup. With the new hire of a general manager, everything should be in order within the next couple of months. For now, we will have to sit back and watch the World Cup! The US will be busy developing their younger players! Go USA!

Stats: The “Score” App