A lot was said in the buildup to Tuesday night’s United States versus Costa Rica Copa America group match. For the USA, the stakes were simple enough: win or go stay home. The USA triumphantly answered any questions about their ability to make an impact in this tournament, thrashing the world’s 23rd ranked side 4-0.
The USA went with the same starting lineup from the disappointing Colombia opener, coach Jurgen Klinsmann clearly agreeing with Michael Bradley’s assessment going into the match: “Forget about formation and tactics, more players have to play better.”
Jurgen Klinsmann made no changes to his starting XI. Photo: @ussoccer | Twitter
Costa Rican legend Hernan Medford said that he couldn’t foresee any possible improvement from the States, and early Costa Rican pressure, including Joel Campbell scurrying after his own miss to get the ball back into play quickly, gave the impression that this would be a difficult 90 minutes for the USA.
However, the game turned on its head following a blatant push on the USA’s Bobby Wood in the Costa Rican penalty box. The referee was perfectly positioned to spot the infringement and immediately pointed to the spot.
Clint Dempsey 9’ Penalty:
Dempsey’s 50th goal for country was a timely reminder of his assured presence in the side. He celebrated the goal by inviting supporters to calm down, he and his American teammates were in control.
Dempsey again played a vital role in the USA’s second goal. His driving run had Costa Rican defenders on their heels, and his final touch sent the ball into the path of the advancing Jermaine Jones. He wrapped his foot around the ball and sent a curling effort just inside the far post. It was a gloriously constructed and finished goal from an American perspective.
Jermaine Jones 37’ Goal:
Bobby Wood effectively sealed the game for the USA just over five minutes later. Pushed out wide for the USA, Wood found himself in his more natural position, back turned and in front of goal, in the 42nd minute. He held up his defender well, quickly turned and buried his shot.
Bobby Wood 42' Goal:
The halftime whistle was nothing if not mercy for Costa Rica, but the second half would improve their fortunes little. Graham Zusi grabbed USA’s fourth goal of the night with a fine run and finish.
Graham Zusi 86' Goal:
By the time the final whistle blew, things looked a whole lot clearer in the American camp. A victory, and a dramatically improved goal difference, means the USA controls their own destiny going into their final group match against Paraguay.
Jurgen Klinsmann can rest a little easier tonight, a path to the quarterfinals is now ensured. USA veterans Clint Dempsey and Jermaine Jones reestablished their positions in the squad, as if they were ever really in doubt, and Michael Bradley was back to his best in midfield.
TFW your team is up 3-0 but you’re trying to hide your excitement: https://t.co/oY00Tgyt4F #USAvCRC pic.twitter.com/DTFfcRwF1a
— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) June 8, 2016
The only visible negative from the game remains the swaths of empty seats on account of ridiculous ticket prices. Having to shell out $100 to sit in the upper deck of a group stage match has effectively priced out many supporters.
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