On Saturday, the U.S. men's national team endured a tough lesson in execution as Germany asserted dominance in the second half, securing a 3-1 victory in Hartford, Connecticut.
Image Credit: - Hardford Courant
Despite the positive return of Gio Reyna, who played for the first time since his fibula fracture in June's CONCACAF Nations League final, it proved to be a challenging day for the U.S.
Image Credit: - USA Today
In the early phases of the game, both teams appeared comfortable, but the USMNT came close to paying a heavy price in the 11th minute when Germany took them by surprise, hitting the post with a shot by Pascal Groß.
The USMNT encountered difficulties for the subsequent 15 minutes, and a penalty appeal from Christian Pulisic was dismissed by the referee.
The match grew chaotic, with opportunities arising for both sides. Pulisic managed to score a remarkable goal, but Germany found an equalizer in the 39th minute.
Germany persisted in their pressure in the second half, and Niclas Füllkrug eventually broke through with a strike in the 58th minute.
The USMNT's shaky defense allowed Germany to score again a mere three minutes later, with Jamal Musiala completing the move.
The U.S. team struggled to stage a comeback, and the match underscored significant deficiencies in their transition play. Winning such games on a consistent basis may be a work in progress for the U.S. team.