2014 World Cup

Well, that was a nice piece of work by Altidore.

 

This won't hurt Altdore's confidence. And, short of the back four suddenly understanding the concept of defense, no one individual needed it more.

 

You could see every Altidore touch becoming stronger as the game went on.

And Klinsmann got him out at just the right time. Keep his confidence level sky-high.

 

I do wish Howard didn't look like he's rescued the Western world every time he makes a save.

 

The Confederations Cup is surely a major title, isn't it? If national teams are sending their strongest to the Confed Cup, I would think that's a major title.

 

Just finished watching the USA/Nigeria game. Some creative stuff from the Americans. Jozy Altidore has long been a favorite of mine. He is so strong, holds the ball well and gets fouled a lot. Obviously, his goal scoring (or lack thereof) is what drives fans crazy, but that second goal he had? Wow. Three feathery touches before smashing that ball into the goal.

 

Ha. My thought as well.

Rescuing the western world and showing up your teammates simultaneously.

 

Why FIFA sees the U.S. as fertile ground for soccer growth:

Most-watched games in U.S. history: http://www.nielsen.com/us/en/newswire/2010/2010-world-cup-final-becomes-most-watched-soccer-game-in-u-s-tv-history.html

Most-watched games in British history: http://talksport.com/magazine/features/120523/chelsea-who-five-most-watched-football-matches-uk-history-172675

The American TV market obviously is 5x the size of the UK market, so the upside is tremendous in terms of raw eyeballs.

 

No, it's not. It tends to have good teams because of the format, but it's not taken even remotely seriously, and its main purpose now seems to be as a World Cup dress rehearsal.

 

Even back when he played for the Metrostars and then Man United, he's always been a screamer at his defense. You never see the guys shoot him a nasty look or grumble about him though.