(Photo: ESPNsoccernet.com)USA men’s national team defeated Italy, in Genoa by the score of 1-0. The lone goal coming off a Clint Dempsey shot that squeaked past Italian keeper Gigi Buffon. The victory marks the first against Italy in nine tries. USA is now on a four game winning streak and unbeaten in 2012. Jurgen Klinsmann improves his record to 2-2 in Europe, a continent which USA traditionally struggles to find wins.
Yes this was a friendly but to gain a win in hostile environment cannot be underestimated. The stars and stripes saw a solid team effort and herculean output by the defense. The European giants brought plenty of pressure and created large amounts of opportunities but were unable to capitalize.
If anything can be taken from this game it is not to doubt Jurgen Klinsmann. He had all of America scratching their heads when young winger Fabian Johnson got the start at left back. By the end of the game fans are convinced that the youngster will be starting for years to come. Fabian who has recently joined the American national team is often used as a midfielder but has started playing defense for his club Hoffenheim.
Clint Dempsey’s goal moves him into fourth overall for USMNT goals scored but the MVP of the match is goalie Tim Howard. Tim Howard was able to record seven big saves. Tim Howard’s effort stole the show from legendary keeper Gianlugi Buffon who made his record setting 112 appearance for the Azzuri.
On a side note USWNT put a 5 to nothing beat down on Denmark. Goal scoring machine Alex Morgan netted two goals. Abby Wambach was able to net her 132nd goal for the national team.
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