Draw between United States and Ecuador in a Thrilling Friendly
A second-half goal from Folarin Balogun secured a 1-1 draw for the United States men’s national soccer team against Ecuador in an exciting friendly match played in Austin, Texas. Despite the home team finding themselves at a disadvantage after a goal by Enner Valencia for Ecuador in the 24th minute, the United States demonstrated promising offensive play from the start of the match. The USMNT dominated possession with 66% and generated six shots in the first half, but failed to score, thanks to the outstanding interventions of Ecuadorian goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez. In the second half, the American pressure in the rival area continued. With the entry of offensive players like Diego Luna and Alex Freeman, the team intensified its efforts, which ultimately led to Balogun’s equalizing goal in the 71st minute. Coach Mauricio Pochettino made changes, including Christian Pulisic and Haji Wright, seeking victory. However, Ecuador remained firm in defense, securing the 1-1 draw until the final whistle. In preparation for the FIFA World Cup, Pochettino and his team will close out this month’s FIFA date with another friendly against Australia on Tuesday.Party Analysis and Ratings
Coach Rating
Mauricio Pochettino, 7: Although victory was not achieved and the early goal against was not ideal, Pochettino implemented a dynamic approach with a quick build-up in his 3-4-2-1 formation. If it weren’t for Galíndez’s outstanding saves, the USMNT could have taken the lead. Pochettino will have to work on details, such as efficiency in set pieces and possession. Overall, it was a satisfactory performance against a dangerous opponent.Player Ratings
Goalkeeper:
Matt Freese, 6: Although there were no major errors in Valencia’s goal, Freese couldn’t secure it at a crucial moment. However, he made a good save and a high claim in the second half.Defenses:Tim Ream, 7: Reliable in aerial and ground duels, the 38-year-old captain performed well in defense. Currently, his position is difficult to lose.Chris Richards, 5: An up-and-down game for the defender, who was a step behind on Valencia’s goal, but almost scored from a corner. He received a yellow card.Miles Robinson, 7: He looked comfortable in the back three, and despite a yellow card, he didn’t diminish his aggression and forward movement.Midfielders:
Max Arfsten, 6: Average in defense, but creative in attack, Arfsten should continue to have minutes in the 3-4-2-1 formation. However, he could be surpassed by Antonee Robinson, once he is recovered.Tanner Tessmann, 6: An important connector in midfield, but did not stand out, despite his “hockey assist.” Still has to prove more.Aidan Morris, 8: In his first start in almost a year, Morris had an active and constant participation in midfield, showing his ability to progress the ball. A step forward for the 23-year-old player, who also made important tackles.Tim Weah, 7: Playing as a “false full-back” (as he himself said before the match), Weah made exciting runs down the right wing and also attempted some shots. Versatile in his positioning, he didn’t seem to mind being in a more withdrawn position.Forwards/Offensive Midfielders:Weston McKennie, 7: He should have had an assist at the end of the first half, and as the game went on, he became more involved in creating intelligent plays. Effective in a high-pressure role.Malik Tillman, 8: Connected well with Balogun, made quick connections in the front line and midfield, and finally provided a deserved assist in the second half.Folarin Balogun, 9: Balogun worked hard in the duels against Ecuador. Despite this, he made decisive runs in the final third, generated dangerous shots and scored the equalizing goal for the USMNT in the second half.Substitutes
(Players introduced after the 70th minute do not receive a rating)Diego Luna, 6: Showed a desire to participate in the attack and took a shot on goal.Alex Freeman, 7: Recovered the ball at crucial moments and made quick runs down the right wing.Mark McKenzie, NR: Made two clearances and blocked a shot.Christian Pulisic, NR: Pochettino mentioned before the match that the player had an ankle problem, which limited his playing time.Cristian Roldan, NR: Quickly connected 10 of 12 passes in the final stages of the match.Haji Wright, NR: Quickly took a couple of shots in his brief appearance.
