USA 1-1 Argentina

Phenomenal result for the Yanks, given the complete domination by the Argentines in the first half.

Esteban Cambiasso's goal right before halftime summed up a miserable American midfield experience, as well as athletic superiority for the Albiceleste attack.
The second half, however, showed us what the US can do when on the ropes: play physical but patient soccer.  Juan Agudelo (again) was able to tap one home in the 59th minute off a free kick rebound, solidifying the encouraging draw.
The result was not the only encouraging aspect of last night's match.  Both halftime substitutions (Agudelo and right back Timothy Chandler) made Bob Bradley look like a genius.  Agudelo, while his goal seemed like it was of the right-place-at-the-right-time variety, was able to show some athleticism and good instincts when left with a well-deserved rebound off an outstanding free kick by Landon Donovan and a great header by Captain Bocanegra.  It was his second goal in three games with the national team.  Now, let us watch the media drool over the 18-year-old for a few weeks and Freddy Adu-ize the shit out of him.

Juan Agudelo

Chandler made it very clear that he wanted to be part of the offense, frequently running up the right sideline like it belonged to him.  His 45 minutes of play on both sides of the ball was enough to earn him praises.
I'm slightly miffed by the choice to put Jozy Altidore as the lone striker in the first half, an experiment that obviously did not work particularly well.  Donovan and Clint Dempsey had trouble finding options on the run, and we all know Jozy is not at that caliber (yet).
And while I'm second-guessing the lineup selection, is it bold or unrealistic to say that it's about time Michael Bradley and Mo Edu (and Jermaine Jones) learn how to play in the midfield together?  I understand the idea that these identical players who prefer to roam in the dead center of the pitch is causing a logjam at the position, so I think it's time for them to figure it out.  It's blowing way too many offensive opportunities.
My man of the match is obviously Tim Howard.  For the gazillionth time, he bailed out his fellow countrymen on numerous occasions with terrific saves, and is the most deserving of the honor.  The score could easily have been 3-1 or 4-1.  Another great showing by #1.
Had a great time at the match.  Boozed it all the way to the stadium, met some really cool people tailgating, and I think I hugged a stranger after the Agudelo goal.  As ugly as it might be from the outside, a sold out New Meadowlands Stadium is an incomparable experience.




***Just announced: USA-Spain at Gillette Stadium, June 4.  I'm a tad surprised that such a high-profile friendly would be scheduled three days before our Gold Cup opener, but I'm assuming this means that the starting lineup won't be playing the whole match.  Great warm-up match for the Yanks, though, and a phenomenal one for New England.