Honduras vs. USA, 2014 World Cup Qualifying: 2-1 to Honduras as USMNT suffer early Hex blow

Klinsmann’s side struggled to find the ball as they pressed for an equalizer, and didn’t get a good chance until deep in stoppage time. With the last touch of the ball, Gonzalez headed over on a corner by Zusi, and the home crowd went wild as the referee blew the final whistle to signal a Honduras win.

Let’s go to the tape...well, let’s go to the digital video capture.

I’m sure most USMNT fans will not be all that excited about the goal given the context but even the most ardent supporters of the red, white and blue should admit that’s an extraordinary effort.

It’s been a scrappy first 45 minutes, with neither team establishing much of a rhythm, but Honduras have been the stronger side. The United States won’t be disappointed with a draw from this match, but will need to do a better job of keeping the ball in the second half.

Forget about the mythical transformations and all the zen-like nonsense you’ve read, Klinsmann’s grander goals and ideas for US Soccer won’t mean a hill of beans if he can’t successful guide his team through the hex and in to the World Cup. Today he must get off the right foot by naming the right lineup to take on Honduras. Selecting that lineup is tricky thanks to several factors but fortunately our US Soccer blog Stars and Stripes FC has it all broken down for you.

Before you get outraged, USMNT supporter, remember that U.S. soccer has no say over where away games are broadcast. The Honduran federation can sell the rights to whomever they please. In 2009, the away qualifier in Honduras was sold to a horrible pay-per-view company that charged $30 for an atrocious stream that was essentially a slideshow. This is a massive improvement.

If you live in the United States, do not have access to beIN Sport and want to watch the game, we recommend your local AO bar.

They also have a chance to finish third, and will get off to a great start if they can manage a result against the United States on Wednesday. A draw would probably suit both teams just fine, which could make for an ugly and difficult to watch match. It’s unlikely to be enthralling stuff for the neutrals, especially given that CONCACAF officials have a tendency to be extremely lenient in big Hex games.

Honduras’ best players are, arguably, their defensive midfielders. Their last competitive match was a stunning 8-1 demolition of Canada, and they kept a clean sheet in four consecutive matches before that. They’re extremely difficult to break down, especially at home. The good news for the United States is that Los Catrachos’ captain and goalkeeper, Noel Valladares, is a bit erratic. He’s a much better player than he was during the last World Cup qualifying campaign, but is still good for the occasional howler.