It was a decent showing for the United States Men’s National Team today in Prague where a group of World Cup 2014 vets and some stars for the future gathered to defeat Czech Republic 1-0.
Ale Bedoya found the back of the net in the 39th minute after Mix Diskerud nipped the ball from the Czech defense, dribbled into the box unmarked and put his show directly at Petr Cech. The Chelsea keeper made a good stop but the rebound sprayed left where Bedoya was waiting with a one-touch left-footed finish.
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Both sides enjoyed first half chances with the Yanks coming off their possession-based play and the Czechs, their counter-attack. In the second half, however, the Czechs seized control and it was substitute goalkeepers Nick Rimando, on for Brad Guzan, who made a number of spectacular saves including a one-on-one encounter with Ladislav Krejci from close range.
In the end, the Czechs couldn’t find an equalizer and it was three points to Jurgen Klinsmann’s side, who utilized a number of new players and options throughout the match.
USMNT Lineup
United States: Guzan (Rimando, 46′), F. Johnson, Orozco (Ream, 46′), Brooks, Chandler (Garza, 63′); Bedoya (Hyndman, 68′), Corona (Shea, 63′), Diskerud (Morales, 63′); Green, Altidore, Gyau
Goal: Bedoya (39)