England vs. USA World Cup 2010: U.S. Bench Could Decide Outcome of Opening Game

By
at Internationaled.org

Published: June 12, 2010

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For those watching the South Africa-Mexico game to start the 2010 World Cup, there was a moment, halftime actually, where the game was in the hands of the coach.

0-0, Mexico with the bulk of the play, many believing that South Africa was barely hanging on. However, there was a five to ten minute span close to half where the host nation had controlled the play, especially on the wing.

There was hope. There was a chance. The much more heavily favored Mexicans appeared to be susceptible in the back.

And what could "el tri" do to score? How could they finally capitalize on all their possession?

Whatever team made the right adjustments could break the game wide open...

Many already know the story. in the 55th minute, Siphiwe Tshbalala opened the scoring with what will most likely be one of the best goals of the tournament by finishing off a perfect through ball on a South African counter.

It all hapened as the Bafana Bafana calmed down. They covered their flanks (where Mexico started most of their attacks), and played with two defensive midfielders and an attacking midfielder/target player, to start the counter.

All of these were adjustments made at halftime.

Of course, Mexico made late-game changes to scrounge up a point. They brought on Andres Guardado in a deep holding and distributing role, and he eventually assisted on the goal with a long cross to Rafael Marquez.

The choice to give Cuauthemoc Blanco playing time also made an impact.

This gave Mexico an option on just about any play, and it relieved pressure on the younger players as Blanco always wanted the ball (not that he always did something with it).

Finally, the goal came by capitalizing on South Africa's inability to mark-up properly; an issue seen throughout the game and more than likely stressed during the halftime speech.

The tournament's first game is a portent a...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - International Football

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