No. 30--Soccer: United States vs Sweden in an Exhibition Game: USA Outplayed Sweden, But Only a Fair Game to Watch

by Soccer Coach Albert M. Luongo

The USA national team beat Sweden 2 to 0. USA defender Eddie Robinson scored early in the first half with a good goal. The shot came from his foot in a crowded defensive area. After that the game became sloppy on both sides with trapping and passing. Both teams had scoring chances but the USA’s attacks were slightly more coordinated. Even though both sides had difficulty making coordinated attacks, the USA team dominated most of the first half.

In the second half, the USA's set plays became more coordinated for longer periods, but they also had just as many poor periods. Sweden had a few attempts, but could not keep up with the Americans. USA used the wings and set plays at times with professional precision, but not on a continual basis. It would appear that Sweden was in poorer condition and their attacks were often below standard for such a team in this competition.

The game became a free for all near the end and several yellow cards were issued. However the referee had excellent control and prudently awarded yellow cards when violent fouls took place.

In the 46th minute, Sweden’s Bjarsmyr took down the American player Altidorre and USA was awarded a penalty kick. Landon Donovan scored goal no. 2. He had an excellent game in addition to scoring the penalty kick.

For the most part, Sweden’s goalkeeper as well as the defensive team made too many long kicks. They need to keep the ball on the ground more often and improve their trapping.

At times the playing was like a second division high school game while at other times (not too often) the play was professional. The final score of 2-0 was just about right for this match. Both teams could also use a stronger defense to reduce the number of dangerous shots on goal. Also, too many corner kicks were awarded due to the ball constantly crossing the goal line. However, the USA goalkeeper Brad Guzan made several good saves preventing Sweden from scoring.

Discussion:
If the USA intends to be a future competitor against top world class teams, it needs to be in better condition in order to maintain a consistent passing game. Also they need to practice their trapping under pressure. Both teams need to strengthen their defense to better protect the goal, receive more passes from the goalkeepers and to be stronger in order to prevent the ball from going over the goal line.

Sweden had a few more violent fouls against the USA. One such foul caused a penalty kick and one or two other fouls could have caused an ejection of a player.

It is my opinion that both teams needed to be in better physical condition to be more competitive against stronger teams.

All of the above information is the author's opinion. This article in no way is meant to degrade, discredit or defame any team or person. Its sole purpose is to improve the skills of young soccer players, coaches and the game itself