Russel Isabella-USA Today Sports
In Wednesday’s international friendly, the U.S. Men’s National Team‘s first-half performance against Bosnia-Herzegovina was somewhat disappointing. However, USMNT fans were not disappointed for long into the second half. Between Jurgen Klinsmann‘s tactical change to a 4-4-2 and Jozy Altidore‘s hat trick, the United States defeated Bosnia in a thrilling and historic 4-3 victory.
With the victory, the United States accomplished three historic feats. Altidore scored his fifth goal in five straight games, the United States won their 12th straight game, and for the first time ever, the United States came from behind on European soil.
Klinsmann’s genius decision to switch to a 4-4-2 out of the half spread out Bosnia’s tough back line. Instead of just Altidore up top, Eddie Johnson and Altidore tormented Bosnia’s defense. Midfielder Michael Bradley‘s tremendously accurate passes and effective runs allowed Altidore to score his second USMNT career hat-trick.
In addition, Altidore’s confidently took a free kick and sent it screaming to the left upper 90 and past the keeper. If you know anything about Altidore, you’ll know it has been awhile since he has taken a free kick. Usually, he is inside the box trying to deflect home a chance, but he wanted a crack at taking the lead.
In the end, Altidore continued his impressive 2013 campaign for both club and country. Flash back to 2012, when Klinsmann challenged Altidore to find his form, and there is no question now that Altidore has found it.
Because of Klinsmann’s great tactical changes, Altidore’s performance, and Bradley’s all-around awesome performance, the U.S. Men’s National Team erased a 2-0 deficit en route to a 4-3 victory. Now the United States’ attention turns to World Cup Qualifying in September 2014.
Phil Naegely is a writer for www.RantSports.com. Like him on Facebook, follow on Twitter @PnaegelyRS, and on Google.
