Pre-match: Concacaf Nations League Quarterfinals @ Jamaica (Nov 14) & v Jamaica (Nov 18)

Musah was excellent in the role last night. One of our best players. Supported Scally on defense. Tucked in to hold and progress the ball. Provided good service when he found himself on the wing (including the assist on Weah's goal). Part of it is folks around here need to dispose themselves of what a "winger" role might be in Poch's system.

 

He had the two best crosses I've ever seen him do last night. But that said, he's not much of an offensive threat out there.

Pochettino has tended to have his RW tuck inside to play more of a central role, but right now he's having Musah play the right width role -- play defense, provide an outlet and basically stretch the field. He's doing that well, but it is a pure support role right now mostly because, I think, we don't really have someone much better other than Weah, and Pochettino wanted him on the left.

It will be very interesting to see what happens when Dest and Reyna come back. Both could play that right half-space role extremely well in attack (Reyna could also play the CAM if Pochettino decides to go that route, obviously).

 

Bradley's ground ball wasn't anywhere near what Tessman can deliver and his scanning rate was behind Tessman's.

 

He didn't perform on Jamaica's goal at the 68' mark. He had all day from his position on the right to see that the ball was being shuttled to his area from the left side and he just loped back. If he wants to be a real wb he'll need to see that and take action.

 

I don't remember what Bradley's left foot was like Tessmann has an unreal ability to not only be two footed but able to kick the ball a long way accurately with either foot. I'm sure there have been other high level players who could do that but I'm guessing it's not a long list. Juan Veron? Pirlo? Of course there's more to being a mid but but I don't think Bradley could do that with both feet.

 

This guy?

 

That looks like Jones with the left foot assist.

 

As far as the ability to pass with both feet, JJ is the player that Tessmann reminds me of.

 

Interesting. I've sort of put McKennie in the JJ mold. So together they both had some of his straights. I'll take it.