It was something the U. S. men’s national team wanted, that their Copa America hopes needed and, for USMNT chief Gregg Berhalter, it might have leaned more into the realm of wishes than desire.
Regardless, nothing can be taken away from the Yankees’ functionality on Wednesday, especially since the team didn’t fade away once brilliant Brazil took an early lead in Florida.
[ MORE: USMNT 1-1 Brazil Highlights | Pulisic hits a loose shot]
Christian Pulisic’s fantastic dribble to win a free throw was made even more fun through his conversion from the center play, as the AC Milan player once supported the Yankees’ most productive player.
It wasn’t a perfect day for goaltender Matt Turner, but he was in the vast majority of situations, while several other players surprised in Orlando.
Here are the ratings of the USMNT players vs. Brazil as we saw them, ranked out of 10 with six as a benchmark and any value below that is a very smart sign.
Matt Turner: nine. It’s almost the best. Perhaps he did his best after his mistake in the 16th minute and gave Brazil a chance to take a 1-0 lead. However, 11 stops and an intelligent distribution for the rest. Would a 2-1 or 3-1 loss be just as nice, even with the functionality Berhalter wanted?No.
Antonee Robinson: 7 – He took care of Raphinha’s risk and also kept Danilo busy. Robinson is lately one of the left-backs in the world.
Tim Ream: 7 – Not bad for someone 37 or anyone of any age, however, the number is noticeable when you know that Ream was preparing for his freshman year at St. Louis. Louis when his second-half opponent, Endrick, was born in Taguatinga.
Chris Richards: 5. 5 – He didn’t do anything impressive, but it was enough to thwart some of Brazil’s chances.
Joe Scally (85′): 6. 5 – Probably his most productive day in a USMNT jersey, looking more like the guy starting out at Borussia Mönchengladbach.
Yunus Musah (75′): 6 – Not his most productive game, but he solidly opposes a big opponent.
Giovanni Reyna (64′): 6 – Once he was forged in defensive purposes, but was not at his best in dribbling. Brazilian defenders have smartly enjoyed this specific skill.
Weston McKennie: 6. He may have done more to attack Turner’s unfortunate kick. I was busy as always, but I didn’t take the ball and I lacked sharpness. Happens.
Timothy Weah (75′): 7 – He created, shot and looked for the maximum for the game. He stood his ground on the defensive end.
ORLANDO, FLORIDAE – JUNE 12: Ricardo Pepi #9 of the United States advances the ball in the first half against Brazil at Camping World Stadium on June 12, 2024 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/USSF/Getty Images for USSF)
Getty Images for USSF
Christian Pulisic: 8 – Fantastic player at his best. The free-kick goal, of course, was excellent, but on two occasions he came close to giving his team the lead. The Americans will only get as far as it.
Ricardo Pepi (Off 64′): 6 – Some clever moments of delay but otherwise, they didn’t have many chances for the match.
Johnny Cardoso (over 64′): 6. 5 – Neat in ownership and as comfortable as you would expect from a guy who has lived 95% of his life in Brazil.
Folarin Balogun (in the 64th minute): 6 – A brilliant moment, but I had a day for Pepi.
Tyler Adams (at 75′): – N/A
Brenden Aaronson (75th minute): – N/A
Shaq Moore (in the 85′): — N/A
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