Posted on 05/28/2014 4:04:44 AM PDT by Berlin_Freeper
Second-half substitutes Mix Diskerud and Aron Johannsson scored to lift a heavy legged United States over Azerbaijan 2-0 on Tuesday night in the first of three World Cup warmups for the Americans.
On a night when captain Clint Dempsey was scratched just before kickoff because of a sore left groin, the 14th-ranked Americans had trouble breaking down No. 85 Azerbaijan.
Diskerud, a Norweigen-American wearing the No. 10 jersey that freed up when Landon Donovan was cut from the roster last week, entered in the 71st and scored four minutes later off Brad Davis' free kick.
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Brooks holds both German and American citizenship. Brooks was named to the United States's final 23 man roster for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
This was hardly a performance to inspire confidence ahead of their Group of Death matches against Spain, Holland and Chile next month as the Socceroos could manage only a 1-1 draw in front of 50,459 at ANZ Stadium.
World Cup 2014: Socceroos farewelled by green and gold throng as they board flight to Brazil
"If we think it's going to be our last World Cup, we're going to try and finish it the best way we can," he told a media conference.
"It's in the back of our minds that it could be our last. We're all going to try and make it our best."
I’m happier about the 0 than the 2. If the US has any chance of advancing out of group play, the defense has to step up and play better than they have over the last year or so.
As do the world rankings, which place Australia last of the World Cup qualifiers in 59th spot (between Mali and Burkina Faso).
And judging by the social media response to the Socceroos’ stuttering 1-1 draw against a less-than-fearsome South Africa on Monday night, large numbers of the Australian public share that pessimistic view.
14th ranked? That sounds pretty good to me. Can’t wait for the games to begin.
I am concerned about 0 for 75 minutes. So tired of teams turning on the play late in the game.
Yeah, but that’s kind of the mentality at this level - play defensive, don’t make mistakes, and try to eventually wear out lesser opponents. Yes, the offense could be better and more consistent, but if the defense is showing signs of solidifying, that’s a big step in the right direction.
I bet Obama will attend the World Cup.
That would be the only time I rooted for Ronaldo....to rocket a free kick off his head!!
Reminds me of a quote by comedienne Rita Rudner.
“I got kicked out of ballet class because I pulled a groin muscle. It wasn’t mine.”
4 or 5 dual German/American citizens on the team. All from fathers in the service.
World Cup 2014 - Wayne Rooney accepts he has 'no excuses' in Brazil
The 28-year-old has said he will seek out the help of renowned sports psychiatrist Dr Steve Peters to try and end his barren run in South America, and acknowledges he needs a big tournament for his country.
"I'm in the best condition," said the Manchester United striker.
"I want to show the world what I can do. There will be no excuses if I don't."
Stephen Hawking reveals formula for World Cup success
South Korea apology as Tunisia tune-up falls flat
South Korea’s coach apologized to fans Wednesday after a 1-0 defeat to Tunisia tempered World Cup hopes in their final home friendly before the tournament in Brazil.
Hong Myung-Bo, a hero of South Korea’s run to the 2002 semifinals, said his team would struggle in Brazil if they cannot fix their problems.
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