Argentina started slowly against the USA, so slowly in fact that they went a goal down in the 8th minute to an Eddie Johnson strike. And in truth, they never really shone except in patches against a reserve side from a weaker footballing nation. What they did do, however, was score a few of their chances – two from Hernán Crespo, one from outstanding substitute Pablo Aimar and another from Carlos Tevez.
In the first half, Argentina lacked the surprise element, and went in drawing 1-1. The second saw a freer role given to Lionel Messi and the introduction of Aimar for Esteban Cambiasso in the 57th minute. It worked - Crespo doubled his tally with a fine effort to make it 2-1, and the favourites never looked back.
It will be encouraging at least, for those who worried that with his inclusion Argentina would rely too much on Juan Román Riquelme, that Aimar’s introduction changed so much. They do have other playmakers, and against a side set out for damage limitation, Aimar was enough to make the difference. Ultimately, Argentina have sterner tests to face in this group (though whether Colombia count as one after their annihilation at the hands of Paraguay is debatable), but in the opening match they did what they needed to.
Goals (Argentina 4 – 1 U.S.A.):
Johnson: Argentina 0 – 1 USA (7th min)
Crespo: Argentina 1 – 1 USA (11th min)
Crespo: Argentina 2 – 1 USA (63rd min)
Aimar: Argentina 3 – 1 USA (77th min)
Tevez: Argentina 4 – 1 USA (84th min)
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Mascherano was brilliant, carrying the burden of being the only DM. Cambiasso played a bit like Sorin: he was everywhere but nowhere.
Veron is past it and so is Zanetti. they gave the ball away very often.
Tevez should start. But Basile is a bit stubborn and will not touch the starting eleven.
Great blog!
keep it up mate
Awesome blog. Thank you.