Looking Beyond

First off, have to send a big congratulations out to the USMNT on a job well done. I read nothing but criticism from most people following the victory over much hated el tri. Yes, some of it is warranted, our finishing, but let's enjoy the moment. We are now tied for the most Gold Cup titles with four, and don't be surprised if a fifth is to follow in two years. Plus, we finally saw an absolutely beautiful world class strike, and from all players and in the largest of all moments in this tournament, it was provided by the recently heralded Benny. He, along with Bradley, headline a very promising future for the national team. But, that also lends hand to another much debated topic as of late. The roster for Copa America. Ah, yes, I can imagine you all salivating at the mere thought of disputing every text that follows: I absolutely love the roster that coach Bob Bradley has put together.

Yes, call me ludicrous, but why in the world should we even think about doubting this man? All he has done is come into a position amongst great scrutiny for not being international, then had to deal with Sunil's pitter patter and the interim tag for so long. And, as of now, he has a wonderful record of 10-0-1. Why in the world should I even consider questioning his motives at a time like this? And you know what? I won't.

Don't get me wrong, I would love to see the best that we have to offer go to Venezuela in order to put on the best showing possible. But in the end, this is nothing but a meaningless, glorified NIT tournament for the USMNT. Yes, it is very important for the region, but we've already slotted a Confederations Cup spot, and winning this tournament would only give us that much more pride and momentum. That would be fantastic, but realistically, did you think we could win this tournament even with our best? Not two years from now, not two years prior, but in the following two weeks? More than likely not. So with that said, what can the US possibly gain from this tournament? Hopefully a much doubted upset of Argentina, arguably the number one team in the world, the only team that comes close to rivaling the talent of Brazil? Hopefully advancing from what guarantees to be a tremendously difficult group? It is possible, but wishful.

The moral is, there is one possible way this can be a truly meaningful experience for us, and this is being executed. All of the young players being sent to play will gain unparalelled experience. Of the 22 players attending, 14 are under the age of 25, and 16 have 10 or fewer appearances for the USMNT. These players will be our headliners heading into World Cup 2010, when the tournament really does matter. Let's not forget that the structure of tomorrow is based on the foundation of today.

And just as important, who knows that our boys will fall flat on their face anyway? With a team as young as ours, you know stamina should not be an issue, and every single player has something to prove. Maybe coach Bradley knows something we don't, and the lineups that will be arranged could be a surprise to us all. Remember, many of these players are relatively unknown on the international stage, and that could be the deciding factor for us. Yes, maybe negatively, but certainly positively as well.

One last note. There is only one request I would have at this time, and that is to give Jozy Altidore the nod for some playing time. I don't believe anyone can effectively argue that in some way, shape, or form, he will not impact the squad before or (hopefully) during 2010 in South Africa. We keep hearing of the lack of forward play, which does hold true to an extent. Again, our finishing is suspect, but we have had nice chances created, and whether people like it or not, both Twellman and Ching have been a part of that. But while we go through the testing phase of the "revolutionized national team", I say give Altidore a shot. He's earned that much.

-Matt