The United States leave Port of Spain with just one point after settling for a 0-0 draw against Trinidad & Tobago in CONCACAF World Cup qualifying.
The U.S. was outplayed in the first half and didn’t finish their chances in the second, as it was another lackluster performance from Jurgen Klinsmann’s men.
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The Soca Warriors nearly went ahead within the opening 30 seconds, but Chicago Fire’s Joevin Jones hit his shot just over the bar as the USMNT was lucky to avoid a disastrous start.
T&T continued to control most of the play in beginning of the match, although the U.S. did settle in and gain a bit more possession. However, most of the play was kept in the middle-third of the pitch, as neither side looked overly threatening going forward.
After a slow opening frame, the United States could have turned the tide a minute into the second half. Jozy Altidore played a cross into Gyasi Zardes at the back post, whose header rang off the crossbar. Zardes really should have done better as the game remained scoreless.
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The USMNT controlled possession in the second half but lacked intent, never making T&T pay for sitting back. Unable to break through the defense, Jermaine Jones took his chances from 40 yards out in the 78th minute. His strike was headed for the top corner, but Jan-Michael Williams was able to get his fingertips on the shot, deflecting it off the crossbar and out for a corner kick.
Darlington Nagbe and Bobby Wood both came off the bench to try and bring some energy to the U.S. attack, but neither changed the run of play as the match ended a scoreless draw, a deserved result for both sides.
Four points from two matches is good in the standings, but there weren’t many positives to take away from tonight’s performance.
