On Friday, October 2, 2009, the US Men’s National U-20 team lost by a 0-3 margin to South Korea in the final group match of the U-20 World Championship, which is being contested in Egypt. The US team now rests in third place and awaits the results of three other group matches. Finishing as one of the best third place teams will ensure the US advance to the second round of play. If not, they’ll have a long return flight to the United States and plenty of time to reflect upon their dismal performance in Egypt.

In watching the three matches played by the United States, it became increasingly evident that the team lacked organization, composure and on the field leadership. Overall, their play was extremely naive, uncreative and purposeless. This was most noticeable when linking short and medium length passes through midfield and especially apparent against the Germans and South Koreans. Against Germany for instance, the inexperienced Americans were totally outclassed by their more professionally seasoned opponent. The high-pressure defense and intense speed of play left the US team totally unsettled throughout the match.

On Friday against South Korea, the result was even more embarrassing. Down 0-2 at halftime, head coach Thomas Rongen chose to make a single substitution. The team resumed play in the second half, as they had concluded the first: without conviction, determination or purpose. With numerous inaccurate long balls played to the opposing defenders and short passes to midfield teammates who were swimming in a veritable sea of red jerseys, possession was freely given away.

Seldom was there ever a change in the point of attack or in the rhythm of play, for that matter. Instead, we witnessed a boring, lifeless example of how to play the game poorly and without invention. Not exactly inspiring a great deal of confidence in the future of the US men’s national team program.