Mexico didn’t make any excuses... they’ve won the games they’re supposed to win. Meanwhile, we’ve choked three games out of six games in the Ocho. For all the momentum and goodwill gained during the Nations League and Gold Cup... Berhalter has allowed himself to be upset in half the game we’ve played in.
There was 0 expectation of anybody who has evolved past the Precambrian age to think we were getting 18 points in 6 games. That’s absurd.
Correct, but I would argue we were set up subpar in four of our six games. We are underperforming and that's on the coach.
Bingo. 13-14 was more than reasonable. We are, once again, right at the bottom threshold of what is acceptable. It is the annual performance report of "Satisfactory. Do not recommend for promote". For some people, thats perfectly fine. I'd like to think we are at a higher standard than that, though. Especially with the weapons at our disposal.
And yet, we're in second place. Also, if we were "supposed" to win against Canada, then Mexico were supposed to as well. Mexico has played better than us so far (even disregarding the red cards from Honduras and El Salvador) but all I really care about is qualifying. And in this window, we got six points, which is more than Canada (five) and Panama (three) got. Lastly, you make it sound like Berhalter was solely to blame for bad results. Yes he bears some of that, but the players have to perform as well.
I mean their result against Canada was the same as ours. They also had a road tie just like us. Their only difference is they have an extra road win and we have a road loss.
We are missing our top two offensive weapons. So we are not quite at full capacity. But yes, the results so far scream "acceptable" given our talent and any injuries we have had to deal with. Like in September, I'm not mad, or ecstatic.
I love your high expectations but we're fine. So Mexico ties Panama and Canada at home. They INRCRIBLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!
At home vs. Mexico, on the road bs Jamaica, Rotation isn’t an issue, 4 points should be expected. 3 the absolute minimum.
yup, I maybe am slightly below that, but "ish" for sure. I dont think anyone is openly celebrating on this one. Especially the way Panama went down. That was a coaching decision disaster rotating that many players. Absolutely one of the "what could have been" games. I dont think there was a defense for it. But.......results fell our way, we are second in the table. It be that way sometimes. Good shape. and also agree that the top three (Mexico, US, Canada) are separating from the pack now. Panama is the king of the playoff spot. I think they lock that down.
Honestly I couldn’t be that much optimistic as you are about Panama sealing the 4th spot… we have a looong way to go… full of difficulties… not buying that statement until the end…
Lol that defender just shouts and cries, that was hilarious. Soccer players really need a lesson to play to the whistle, but.........that wouldnt have helped him there. That was a murder.
Disagree. Mexico's goal on the road has been nine points, our goal has been three. Glad we figured things out at Honduras.
Sorry for then Greggggg Brigade. We are at best, below expectations. Horrible, no. ok, I guess. The Panama match is gonna bug me for awhile. The lack of offense is a huge issue, but we played much better today….and when you factor in the lack of Gio and CP…. OK. 4 points next window.
With the limited appearances of McKennie, Pulisic, and Reyna I think 12 is reasonable. Full strength no doubt 13-15…this coach idk
Ill give ya that. 12 could/should have been the fair magic number, and frankly we should be there minus the Zardes oopsiedaisy and player selection over the weekend.
14 was the number we "should" have been on. 12 would've been fine. 11 ? A bit disappointing, but with the results of all the other matches, 11 is pretty golden.
The upcoming away game to Canada is literally the first one that I wouldnt be overly upset about if we dont get points there. Hell if we get a tie north of the wall, Ill be pretty happy. A W would be a big deal. Tells you of the times man, we are now at a place where we would be happy taking a point off Canada in their house. Thats never been a thing before. I would expect to take a point off El Salvador away, I would expect to take a point off of Panama City away, and hell this rendition of Costa Rica, I would expect to take at least a point off them away too. But this Canada team? No, an L there is no need for the panic button. A point away to Canada would qualify as "nice" in my book. A win away to canada would feel we got a great result.
The battle between the 4 Central American teams has been interesting. At the start of the Ocho in sure most people thought Honduras were the favorites to grab a qualifying spot. Then Panama emerged with a big win in Jamaica and a draw in Mexico. Just as we were writing off El Salvador they beat Panama having drawn with the Ticos and the USA. Now the Ticos sit just behind Panama and play Honduras and Panama in the next break. I can't see CR getting a point in Canada but it would be nice.
Not me. I think Hugo Perez has the Salvies playing well. They did not bunker with 10 men vs Mexico (though they were behind). Jamaica has already played Mexico & USA on the road. If the get healthy (Bailey) & some English guys show, I think they are right in it with Panama. I think Honduras & CR are bottom.