Honduras will go into the locker room thoroughly pleased with the dull and boring 45 minutes of soccer they just completed against the USA. Neither side was able to look particularly dangerous, with only the US managing to get a shot on goal that was truly dangerous. After a flying performance against Panama, Jurgen Klinsmann will need to get the hairdryer out at halftime.
USA vs. Honduras: Halftime score 0-0, not much happening in the first half
The United States looked asleep at the wheel, and Honduras will be just fine with how things are going, as the two teams are scoreless at the break.
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
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The idea that the somewhat weakened Honduras side would either roll over for the United States or not be able to trouble the Americans was quickly wiped away in the opening minutes of the match. Honduras looked dangerous in possession, and their quickness and pressure on the ball led to some nervy moments. More importantly, Honduras looked more energetic, jumping on every loose ball and outworking the US.
The US were able to trouble Honduras as well, especially down the left side with Fabian Johnson and Clint Dempsey looking lively in the attack.
It was the United States who generated the match's first real chance on goal in the 17th minute. Dempsey's ball out wide to left back Fabian Johnson was immediately crossed into the box where Eddie Johnson got inside his marker and directed the ball on goal. Honduras goalkeeper Noel Valladares was in the right place and made a solid save on the shot.
Despite Jurgen Klinsmann’s aggressive arm flailing on the touchline, his players seemed either unwilling or uninterested to up the tempo as their coach demanded. Honduras -- who appeared more than happy to sit back and play for the draw -- were pleased to play into the apparent US malaise.
In stoppage time, Andy Najar generated the first and only great chance for Honduras, getting free on the right and blasting a low shot that forced Tim Howard into action.
Other than that, it was a boring affair that left the crowd quiet and seemingly disinterested.
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