"This was a difficult result, we have to accept that. As Americans we still have to learn how to fight through adversity and play this difficult international game. The mentality to win is still developing, but it is a tough pill to swallow. The players gave some good efforts, but made too many mistakes against an opponent that is experienced in fighting and giving all for the result. Our guys are still a little bit behind and we have a lot of work ahead of us. This is all part of the learning process." ************** But he will never need to say those words. The US will win tonight.
He blamed the refs for the Gold Cup and he wasn't even effected by their decisions, other than playing Panama for third place rather than Mexico.
We were in a learning process when he started. He has not followed through on any of his promises. At least before, I knew we were a defensive/counter/win fouls team. Now, we're nothing. We're tofu. We absorb whatever we're near. Which, unfortunately is the blandness of JK.
I didn't even mention injuries. He'll likely blame those. "Just think, if I had Fabian Johnson, I could have played him at left back!"
1. Ask the players . . . 2. The injuries cost us . . 3. I played no one out of position. 4. The American soccer culture must change. 5. Our fans are not very sophisticated, these things happen. 6. We look forward to having Jermaine Jones back before our luck runs out. 7. St Vincent and the Grenadines will not be taken lightly. 8. I have to accept responsibility (not).
"The players have to play with more hunger. They need to get nasty. We missed out on 2018. Sure that is disappointing, but we know we are headed in the right direction."
I might be in the minority, but I think if we lose tonight, Klinsmann owns up to it and doesn't offer too many excuses at all.
I think failing to qualify for the WC for the first time in 26 years, by losing at home to Guatemala would actually keep him from offering up a bunch of excuses for once, is all.