Player Ratings
United States 1 | Germany 4
Bobby Convey was one of the few effective players for the United States.
Before a crowd of nearly 65,000 in Dortmund, the U.S. took the field without much to lose. They were playing a German team desperate for a win after a recent 4-1 loss at the hands of Italy; their fans were restless and manager Juergen Klinnsman's job was on the line.
After a scoreless first half, where they effectively shut down the German attack, the U.S. entered halftime seemingly full of confidence while the Germans left the field listening to a chorus of whistles. Facing what could best be described as the United States' "B" team, the Germans were being outplayed on their home soil and Klinnsman was probably wishing he were back home in California.
But things changed quickly in the second half. A clumsy foul right after the kickoff resulted in a German free kick. Second half substitute Bastian Schweinsteiger's free kick into traffic froze Kasey Keller, went untouched, and landed in the goal just inside the far post.
"I thought our first 45 minutes were pretty good," said U.S. manager Bruce Arena. "But it was just a huge mental mistake to start the second half with our kickoff to give the German team a restart and a goal. After 45 minutes of good concentration and smart football, we started the second half very poorly."
Eddie Johnson almost equalized in the 66th minute but his header was denied by a brilliant save from Oliver Kahn. From there, the floodgates opened with three German goals in a six-minute span. All three goals were the result of errors on the U.S. backline.
The United States got a bizarre consolation goal late in the game when Steve Cherundolo's long ball intended for Eddie Johnson eluded Kahn, as he came out to challenge Johnson, and found the back of the net. Cherundolo's 75-yard goal was his first international tally.
Not many U.S. players helped their chances of making the final 23 man World Cup roster tonight while a few probably eliminated themselves from contention and will be watching the games on television with most other Americans.
"Certainly, the better team won," Arena said. "The game served the purpose of evaluating players and I don't think too many players played themselves onto our World Cup roster tonight."
With the U.S. now has four more scheduled games before their World Cup opener on June 12th. The team will have their full roster for the final three games in late May. It will be interesting to see how many of the players on the field tonight will be part of that roster.
Player Ratings
Kasey Keller (5) – Didn't make any big saves but was solid in the air. Couldn't be faulted on any of the goals but when you give up four your rating is bound to suffer.
Cory Gibbs (6) – After a series of injuries, this game was his first for the national team in nearly a year. He had a strong performance, winning most of the battles with Gerald Asamoah while still pushing forward on occasion. He has all the attributes you want in a defender and Arena has to be happy with what he saw. He could challenge for a starting spot if he remains in form.
Jimmy Conrad (3) – Of all the U.S. players he seemed to show the most nerves and he looked uncomfortable throughout the match. He misjudged, and was beaten to, the ball leading to the second goal. For the last ten months Conrad has been solid but today, when he had the chance to prove himself on a big stage, he looked out of place. This effort hurt his already slim chances for making the squad.
Gregg Berhalter (4) – He had a strong first half, particlularly when Germany created immense pressure early in the game. Along with the rest of the defense, he had trouble keeping its shape in the second half. His poor pass led directly to the third goal. Still on the bubble for a spot in Germany.
Steve Cherundolo (6) – One of the few bright spots for the United States on this evening. He is excellent with the ball and his speed allows him to recover from any errors. His first international goal was lucky but I'm sure he'll take it. Solidified his spot as the starting right back.
Kerry Zavagnin (5) – Made a couple of key defensive stops in the first half but disappeared for long periods. Does not have the same impact as Pablo Mastroeni. Could still make the team as cover for Mastroeni but I wouldn't bet on it.
Pablo Mastroeni (6) – A solid, professional performance. Mastroeni was all over the field, he didn't back down from anyone and his tackling was excellent. I remain surprised that he's still playing in MLS. Probably a starter in June.
Bobby Convey (6) – Convey was the best attacking player for the United States. He displayed confidence throughout the match and was one of the few players who looked dangerous. He has really grown as a player over the last year and should find himself with a role in Germany.
Josh Wolff (4) – Didn't do much in the attacking midfield role before having to leave the game with a mild concussion. In fairness, he never really had the time to get into the flow of the game.
Eddie Johnson (4) -- Johnson was not able to exploit his speed throughout the match. He did not work well with Brian Ching and the offense was ineffective. He did not receive much quality service which was a major factor in his performance. Only a great save by Oliver Kahn prevented Johnson from tying the game at 1-1. On the positive side, he went the full 90 minutes and seems to be getting closer to game shape.
Brian Ching (3) – Ching has run out of chances. Needing an impressive performance to have a shot at making the roster, he did virtually nothing in the match and failed to leave a mark on the game. He was replaced by Taylor Twellman for the last 30 minutes and Twellman, while not impressive either, was at least able to get involved in the play.
Substitutes
Chris Klein (17th minute for Wolff) (4) – Unexpectedly received substantial minutes after Wolff's injury. Despite the golden opportunity to make a big impression on Arena, Klien was ineffective for most of the match. He favors his right foot too much and lost the ball on a few occasions after passing up opportunities to cross the ball with his left foot. Should be watching the World Cup from home this summer.
Taylor Twellman (60th minute for Ching) (5) – Twellman hustled and brought some energy to the game in his 30 minutes but didn't accomplish much. Did not have any opportunities on goal. Still on the bubble but considering the weak competition at forward he should probably make the roster.
Ben Olsen (74th minute for Mastroeni) (5) – An Arena favorite, Olsen had a satisfactory performance in relief of Mastroeni. He didn't do much to distinguish himself on either end of the field and has to be considered a fringe national team player at best.
Heath Pearce (77th minute for Gibbs) (4) – Clearly a player for the future, Pearce got some needed experience after Gibbs left with a minor injury. Should be a player in the national team pool for years to come.