SC Soccer Forums SCSoccer.com Forums College, Pro & International Soccer USA 3, Portugal 2 -- FINAL!!!

Did your neighbors get any sleep.Doubt if mine did!And I have a preacher next door.

Although I was a little weary at Arena's decision to not start Mathis and Reyna I think that Arena's choice of young speed helped the Americans. Not saying it will always work w/ every team though. Hopefully we will get to see Mathis play some during the next 2 matches and HOPEFULLY more matches after that. Beasley added a lot of speed on the left wing and made some great plays. Also Sanneh made some offensive attacks from his defensive position to help out the US in their 3 goals.

Looking ahead, if the U.S. can survive the next two games as either Group winner or runner-up, then we will face either Italy or Mexico more than likely in the Second Round. Not a bad draw - at least we are familiar with both sides.

We just need to make sure and take care of business in the next two matches agains Korea and Poland.

Mathis has had a slow recovery and was feeling pain in his knee as of late. In regard to Agoos, he had to make a play on the ball as two Portugese players were in prime position to get a toe on it. Agoos is a positive influence back on defense. To disagree is to say Arena doesn't know what he's doing. It is obvious that BA knows soccer.

Mathis may be ready to play against South korea. It will be interesting to see what BA does with his lineup.

Given the offensive result from Game 1 I'd say leave Donovan upfront with McBride.

Good call, but they say that BA likes to tinker with his lineup. Friedel or Keller in goal?