USA Vs. Chile: 1-1 Full Time, USMNT Salvages Late Draw

It was an up and down performance from the USMNT in the so-called “Camp Cupcake” match, but there were plenty of positives to take out of their 1-1 draw with Chile. Some players put in so-so or even poor performances to rule themselves out of competitive United States teams in the near future, but there were just as many players who put in positive performances that make them appear to be viable options for the senior squad.

The first half was rather uneventful, with Dax McCarty creating the United States’ best chance on a 30 yard shot where he attempted to catch the Chile keeper off his line, which was saved. MLS Golden Boot winner Chris Wondolowski was often isolated up top and failed to make an impact on the game. Sean Franklin was the player who hurt his stock and the team the most in the first half, getting caught out of position and committing silly fouls on more than one occasion.

Chile opened the scoring in the second half through Esteban Paredes, thanks to some poor defending by Marvell Wynne. Zach Loyd was not completely blameless for the goal either, as the left back was turned around and provided little opposition to Chile’s cross into the box. This would not be the last error for Wynne, who was substituted on for Omar Gonzalez, in the center of defense.

That goal prompted Bob Bradley to bring Juan Agudelo and Teal Bunbury into the game for struggling players Brek Shea and Chris Wondolowski, and they made an immediate impact.

Eventually, their impact lead to a goal as Agudelo drew a penalty. Though he embellished the contact, it appeared that he was, indeed, fouled. Teal Bunbury stepped up to the spot and buried the penalty kick, tying up the game at 1-1.

Bunbury and Agudelo were among the best players for the United States, and their performances has probably cost Chris Wondolowski any place in the team in the near future. Dax McCarty and Tim Ream were also very good for the United States. Zach Loyd, while he made a few mistakes, looked very promising and provided the team with a lot of energy. All in all, while some players disappointed, there were more positives than negatives tonight from a young, inexperienced United States squad.