Ezra Shaw
How refreshing would it be for referees to give public post-match explanations on some of the more controversial decisions they make in professional games where the stakes are so high. Maybe it's a tad unrealistic, knowing there would be a furor on just about every call they make. But with instances such as the United States' disallowed goal in the final minutes of their game with Slovenia, it would at least give a perspective from the horse's mouth on such an important moment.
Television replays could not highlight any specific infringement against the U.S. when a cross was played into the Slovenia penalty area and midfielder Maurice Edu was able to provide a clinical finish. If anything, the Slovenia players appeared culpable for overt fouls against the American players, which would have meant a penalty. Declan Hill, the author of The Fix, may have some thoughts on the call and should be consulted.
As for the game itself, the U.S. surprisingly started slowly without the urgency required to win the game. They gave way too much respect to Slovenia and decided to take more of a defensive posture as opposed to seizing the initiative.
Bob Bradley surprisingly started with his two top players Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey in wide positions similar to the England game. It was a decision that backfired as Slovenia took a 2-0 lead in the first half by exposing weaknesses in the U.S. backline. Not only do the Americans lack pace at the back, but in committing to a strictly zonal marking system they all too often allow forwards to make diagonal runs in the gaps between centre backs Jay DeMeritt and Oguchi Onyewu. Rather than track and man mark at the right moment they leave opposing forwards free in these instances all too often. Today they paid the price for not being flexible and balanced on their marking philosophy.
Meanwhile, moving Landon Donovan into a more advanced forward position paid immediate dividends for the U.S. as he scored a terrific individual goal within minutes of the restart. Combined with the addition of Maurice Edu into the centre of the park and the resilient mentality of the U.S. team, it was a remarkable comeback. It was so fitting that the coach's son, Michael Bradley, tied the game knowing the immense pressure there would have been on his father.
In the end, this as a get-out-of-jail-free card performance by the United States. Against Algeria, they cannot make the same mistakes. Knowing they have to win to get through to the second round, it should influential their tactical approach and urgency. An attacking mentality will be essential for them to get through.