After watching the full 90, here are some of my takeaways:
- Pepi has improved a lot over the last year, mainly on the technical side of his game. His pass in the buildup on the first goal demonstrated great vision and wasn't something he likely would've done a year or so ago. His physical ability and finishing inside the box has always been elite. Adding the technical ability, the hold-up play, and the passing vision is going to push him to another level.
- Pepi and Balogun are IN FORM right now. It's going to be exciting to watch Team USA play with two big, in-form strikers. We've had good strikers in past World Cups, particularly McBride and Altidore, but I think Balogun and Pepi are both a level up from those guys.
- Adams looks to be in top form right now. I thought McKennie was off his game, but he was playing with the B Team, so it's tough to draw too many conclusions. Overall the center of the field should be strong if those two can stay healthy.
- I loved where Poch put Dest. Pushing him further up the field really allowed his technical ability, playmaking, and creativity to show while covering his defensive shortcomings.
- Pulisic obviously had a great game, but he still looked just a step slow to me. For a player that relies so much on pace, it's a bit concerning. He can still be effective as a playmaker versus a pacey, get-behind-the-defense winger, though — especially with in-form strikers in front of him.
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