The United States men’s national team simply throttled Trinidad and Tobago in Jacksonville on Tuesday, breaking through before halftime en route to a 4-0 win.
The win gives the Yanks the top spot in Group C heading into the Hex, meaning it will open the final round of World Cup qualifying at home against Mexico on Nov. 11.
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The way they looked on Tuesday, USMNT fans will be saying, “Bring it on”.
USMNT Starting XI
Tim Howard — 8 — With loads of respect to a pure pro in Brad Guzan, I have no idea how this man doesn’t start against Mexico.
Fabian Johnson — 7 — The U.S. is better off when he doesn’t have the defensive responsibilities of a left back, but also doesn’t have many options at left back.
Omar Gonzalez — 5 — Wasn’t tested much once the second half hit, but not amongst the U.S. bright lights.
Steve Birnbaum — 6 — Didn’t have much to do.
Geoff Cameron — 7 — Bright when called upon, and man he gets down the field quick for a big man.
Christian Pulisic — 9 — Exceptional, stunning, electric, dynamic… We’re running out of shining adjectives.
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Michael Bradley — 6 — Had his stumbles getting into the flow early, but showed his typical clever passing as the game wore on.
Sacha Kljestan (Off 73′) — 7 — Entirely capable of succeeding in the final third against this sort of competition, but will he get the chance to do it against better sides?
Alejandro Bedoya (On 65) — 6 — Worked his butt off, was difficult to play against, but didn’t quite have his cutting edge.
Bobby Wood (Off 60′) — 6 — It wasn’t a particularly bright night for Wood, who was just inches off for most of the night.
Jozy Altidore — 9 — A slow, clumsy start had us wondering if this wasn’t his night, only to find out how wrong we were. A bull as usual, and two deft finishes. His intelligence doesn’t get enough credit.
Substitutes
Jordan Morris (On 60′) — 6 — Good work rate, nothing splashy from the Sounders man.
Paul Arriola (On 64′) — 7 — Scored his second U.S. goal, missed a possible third, though. Just 21.
Caleb Stanko (On 73′) — 6 — Game was dusted when he earned his first cap.