The United States is still struggling to create chances, but for 45 minutes they have hung tough with Italy and have even grabbed their fair share of the midfield, which is no easy task against the Italians. The result is few chances for the Italians too and as the two sides head into halftime, they will both be banging their heads against a wall as they try to figure out a way to break the scoreless tie in Genoa.
Italy Vs. United States: Midfield Battle Leads To Few Chances In Scoreless First Half
It was Italy who flew forward first and almost scored early, but Tim Howard did well to kick the ball away and keep the home side off the scoreboard. After that, it just became a series of Sebastian Giovinco runs in behind the U.S. defense, mostly offside, but occasionally on and threatening the U.S. goal.
For the U.S. Michael Bradley and Maurice Edu have been strong, cutting out Italy's forays forward and even distributing the ball well to keep Italy form intercepting the ball for cheap chances. Toss in a very strong Fabian Johnson at left back and the Americans have to be happy with what they've done in their defensive and middle third.
The problem for the U.S. has been in the final third, where Brek Shea and Jozy Altidore have combined to torpedo a shocking amount of American attacks. At the same time, Clint Dempsey has gone without the ball for long stretches. All in all, it's not tough to see why the U.S. has struggled in the attack, but elsewhere there are reasons for smiles in the first 45 minutes as Italy have been frustrated.
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