The United States men's national team dropped points once again in CONCACAF World Cup qualifying on Sunday, a 1-1 draw against Canada as the road to Qatar 2022 became a bit difficult. US They had the chances they needed to win the game, but they had almost nothing in the open and back-and-forth match in the second half. Brendan Aarons scored for the Americans at the start of the second half, moments before Pyl Larin's equalizer, which was set up by Alfonso Davies.
Sitting on two points after two games, it was the start of an unimaginable victory for the United States. Next up to close the September international window is another touch matchup away from home in Honduras (Paramount+). With Sunday's overwhelming result in the books, here are three takeaways to digest ahead of Matchday 3.
1. This result was much worse than in El Salvador
The draw against El Salvador was not ideal, but it is difficult to win anywhere in Concacafé, especially on the road. This result, against Canada, was far worse than failing to win at home. Although the play would have been a little more exciting going forward, it was still far below average. There continues to be a disconnect in the team, the lack of experienced attendance means we have what seems like eight to 10 kids struggling to stay within the system. Sliding Sebastian Llette into the starting lineup helped a little, but there are just too many questions. Now, to be fair, the absence of Weston McKennie (suspended) and Gio Reyna (hamstrings) didn't help things, but there's still no producer on the side that they find dangerous. It is time for some serious changes in constitution and system.
2. Pulisic needs someone to provide the ball
Christian Pulisic, who made the long-awaited comeback on Sunday, is not being used properly, as he is getting too deep in the middle and constantly getting away from the target. You can't blame him because he hasn't got any help at least. Sometimes it makes sense to drop the ball to get it, but when it's being hacked over and over again, something has to be done, and it didn't.
Numbers wise, he had a good night with three shots, an xG of 0.56, three chances scored and an xA of 0.29. But he still needs to be up, will someone get him the ball wide out and let him go to work.
3. Where's the Deputy, Berhalter?
In another familiar scene, American manager Greg Berhalter waited too long to make changes to the squad. At first, he didn't even use all five sub-permissions, and three of the four he scored entered the match after the 80th minute. The first was due to an injury to Sergio Dest. Why wait so long? It's one thing if your team is on the front foot and looks capable of winning. It's another thing when your team feels like it can just slip one point. This is unforgivable and just shocking. The off-the-bench options might not be ideal, but take some fresh legs off them and give someone a chance.