The United States beat World Cup hosts South Africa 1-0 in a friendly on Saturday at Ellis Park in Johannesburg, thanks to a goal from a rather unlikely source -- defender Steve Cherundolo.
As in the Swiss match, US youngsters made the difference in this match, as an impressive build-up, featuring Benny Feilhaber, Freddy Adu, Michael Bradley and Maurice Edu led to the goal. Edu played the ball perfectly to Cherundolo, who had moved up into the attack from his right back position, and Dolo's fired home his second career goal from near the six.
“The result is important,” said U.S. head coach Bob Bradley after the game. “We have some young players with us, so the experience to play in front of this kind of crowd and get a result is important. I thought Steve scored a very good goal, and we defended well as a group. To be able to maintain a lead in that type of atmosphere is a positive."
The USSF will try to make a lot out of Coach Bob Bradley's 12-5-1 record in 2007, but they should consider the absolute crapfest that was the Copa America before signing him through to WC 2010. He still hasn't proven himself as someone who can win consistently away from the comfy confines of American stadia. That said, the last two matches, in which Bradley finally selected more youthful rosters, demonstrates a willingness (although apparently begrudgingly) to give the kids a chance. It is a positive development to be sure, but I'm doubtful that Bradley's the man to develop this young talent.
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