NFL
By: Marisa Cali
In the world of international soccer, the USMNT has often been seen as an underdog, struggling to make its mark on the global stage.
However, recent developments suggest that the tide may be turning…or are they? Coming off a 3-1 loss to Germany over the weekend, the 5th meetup between the US Men’s National Team and Ghana, is something many are used to… “Just a friendly”.
Zooming out, the match provided a glimpse into a brighter future for American soccer, and for fans in the Nashville area, it’s part of the moving needle that’s bringing more attention to the game. Nashville has emerged as a hotbed for soccer enthusiasm, and it’s no surprise.
Just a short while ago, the Leagues Cup final brought global superstar Lionel Messi to Music City. Nashville area fans were treated to a spectacle like no other, witnessing one of the greatest footballers of all time on their home turf and a penalty shootout to determine a winner.
Tuesday’s match against Ghana was another chapter in The Book of Gregg (Berhalter): 2nd edition. With a mid-week kickoff and cooler temp at kickoff, the roughly 14,000 who showed up represented Nashville’s growing love that extends far beyond club competitions. And the players were ready for their spotlight.
From the first whistle, it was evident that this lineup would put on a show. Up against Jordan Ayew (Crystal Palace), Thomas Partey (Arsenal), and Mohammed Kudus (West Ham), the young and energetic squad, led by Folarin Balogun and Christian Pulisic, displayed impressive teamwork.
The midfield, marshaled by Giovanni Reyna, controlled the game’s tempo for the full 90 minutes, while the defense, anchored by the reliable Sergiño Dest and goalkeeper Matt Turner, stood firm against Ghana’s attacks. But it was in the attacking department where the USMNT truly shone. Within the first two minutes, the U.S. boys had their first shot on goal.
Balogun, getting another start for USMNT spoke of the atmosphere and the quality of the pitch, “The home support was great and the ball moved quickly.”
Gio is Blonde, gets a brace, and he’s Back!
Sporting a bright blonde hairdo, Reyna scored his first in the 10th minute. Berhalter said that Reyna’s “focus and ability from the 1st training session led to a strong camp and a great mindset.” With Pulisic scoring from the spot and Balogun electrifying the crowd with a goal in the 22nd minute, USA was coastin’. Reyna earned his brace in the 40th minute and that all but deflated Ghana.
Balo meshed well with the While the USMNT’s 4-0 victory was decisive, it’s essential to remember that this was just a friendly match. The second half wasn’t as convincing and Berhalter seemed to be disappointed with the substitutes that came in at the half.
Berhalter was looking for aggression after the 1-3 loss to Germany – and that’s what he got — “We’re using these 2 games as a learning experience,” Berhalter said.
The road ahead includes World Cup qualifiers and next year’s Copa America tournament. The USMNT is on the cusp of a renaissance with Gio scoring, Weston winning duels, and the young guys looking like they are having fun playing soccer. Let’s see how the 2nd edition of The Book of Gregg turns out.
Noteables:
Leonard Mallory gets his 1st start, the 60th player to debut under Berhalter’s management.
Sergiño Dest is the man of the match, played the full 90 minutes.
