The United States and Ecuador are through 45 minutes in their international friendly match at Red Bull Arena, and...there isn't a whole lot to say. This looks very much like a friendly between two disjointed teams who are coming off of another game and a decent bit of travel. Both teams look fit enough and are putting in effort, but the passing, ability to keep shape in defense, and movement off the ball have been poor for both sides. Needless to say, it's 0-0.
USA Vs. Ecuador, 2011 International Friendly: Halftime, Not A Lot Going On
Neither manager will be satisfied with the way their team played in the first half and will be looking to make some changes, whether that's in halftime substitutes or just some changes in instructions. The midfield pairing of Maurice Edu and Kyle Beckerman looks average at best for the second straight game, despite the fact that Ecuador aren't flooding the middle by any stretch of the imagination. Brek Shea has had some encouraging runs, but it still hasn't been his best game. Clint Dempsey looks good, but his teammates look statuesque when he's on the ball.
Going the other way, even Antonio Valencia looks poor for Ecuador. No one is connecting on their passes and both teams seem to have little idea about what to do off the ball when their team is attacking. It's been pretty dire stuff, to be honest. Hopefully the second half is better.
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