So most of you have probably already seen it by now, but if you haven't, this is the goal that the US Men's National Team scored to defeat soccer-powerhouse Italy on Wednesday. The goal encapsulates some of the biggest concepts we've been discussing in practices lately: 1)playing the way you face, 2)not turning into a defender if you're hesitant that you might not beat them, and 3) playing leading passes to your teammates. Here, to become the fourth American to ever score against Italy, Clint Dempsey secures a crisp goal as a result of his teammate Jozy Altidore implementing all 3 of those tactics.
They'll break it down for you at the end of the clip, but here's what the coaches think is important to notice here. You'll see that when Jozy Altidore (in the yellow cleats) receives the ball, his back is to the goal. There are three defenders closing in on him, and Clint Dempsey (#10) is running up towards the goal. In one calm, easy, clean touch, Altidore gives Dempsey a leading pass in the way that he is already facing. Dempsey then has the chance to strike the ball with full power for the goal.
Although you might be the best dribbler on the team and although you might want desperately to score a goal, sometimes the best decision for the team is to play the way you face. Dempsey might be known for scoring that goal this season, but Altidore made the best decision in this play for his team, and in the end, thanks to him, the US Men's team went home with a win.
Enjoy the weekend: rest well, and be ready to go next week.
-Coach Hunter
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