Should have won based on missing a couple of sitters, could have easily lost based on a giving up some dangerous counterattacks and parking the bus in the last 20 minutes. Getting a point makes life a little less desparate.
I have a problem with GG replacing 2 forwards with so many key players on yellows. I have a real problem with him wasting a sub on Pefok. I don't see a meaningful difference between him and Pepi lately. Subbing one for the other doesn't have much tactical or attitude value.
I also have a problem with him leaving Arob on an island (partially this is CP's fault) It was an easy attack option for Mexico and it almost paid off a few times. Arob did a better job later in the match but got caught out a bunch in the first half.
I have a problem with GG not pulling Mrob late seeing as he had a yellow. Got away with one.
Yedlin had a pretty good game and will give GG an option if Dest gets sloppy.
We do have 4 very good midfielders. Pick a 5th one for the final roster and focus on other positions.
I'm starting to think we should be playing a false 9 with either CP or Reyna at the top of the diamond in a 4-4-2. The other and Weah/Aaronson can play the wingers. At least our best offensive players are on the field. We are getting zero out of the striker position. This cycle started with us excited about the offense and very concerned about the defense. The D is a bit spotty at times but it is light years ahead of the offense right now.
Steffen still makes me a lot more nervous than when Turner is in net.
Looks like the 8 of the starting 11 is set and GG is going with Zimmerman/MRob at CB, Dest/Yedlin and Arob at FB, Adams/Mckinnie/Musah in the middle and CP/GR/???? up front. I'll still put Turner/Steffen at GK because recent form will matter a lot but Turner should be the choice.
Acosta is the first MF off the bench in case of cards/injury/schedule and could still displace Musah, but I think GG likes his versatility off the bench and I'm now inclined to agree given how well Musah is doing.
Morris doesn't need to play anymore. Shouldn't have played last night unless you agree with GG saving CP/Adams the last 15 minutes because they may need to do back to back 90's to qualify. I don't think I agree with that.
This team is still buttery soft on the ball and gets tossed around easily. Qualifying plus getting out of the group will be a good WC result. Experience for the 2026 cycle is really job 1.
