Three matches and a little more than a month into the Jurgen Klinsmann era of United States soccer, and you have to look pretty hard for positives. Tuesday's 1-0 loss to Belgium was far from disastrous, but it didn't exactly represent the step forward many were hoping to see and leaves the U.S. 0-2-1 in Klinsmann's matches.
Belgium Vs. USA, International Friendly: Another Frustrating Loss For U.S.
It is worth noting that the U.S. did have a potential tying goal waved off . Maurice Edu was able to head the ball past the Belgium goalkeeper off a free kick, but the sideline referee's flag was raised, signaling an apparent off-side call even though no player involved in the play was anywhere near off-side.
Aside from Edu's chance, there wasn't much to speak of for the U.S. on the offensive side. Clint Dempsey created one good chance, but his shot was aimed directly at the keeper and lacked much pace. Brek Shea had some moments, but never put anything on frame. The U.S. did manage to take four shots in the second half after only taking one in the first half, but only one was on goal.
Defensively, the U.S. looked fine other than on Nicolas Lombaerts' 55th minute strike that came directly off a throw-in. Dempsey got to Lombaerts a little late, allowing the fullback to get a clean look at the goal from about 22 yards out, and he blasted it past a diving Tim Howard.
The best news for the Americans is probably that these games do not count for anything other than pride. As frustrating as the results -- and even general play -- may be, it is important to note that the U.S. does not play a meaningful match until next June.
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