Anything after this is gravy. We have a shot against the Dutch which would be amazing. I'm excited to see this team in 4 years on US soil. We could make a lot of noise.
Great effort by the team. Scoring is going to get even harder is Pulisic can’t go. The Dutch are a tall order but anything can happen in soccer.
Yup. Talk about a high stakes game. Also wondered how young iranian women at the game can where their countries colors on their face along with other makeup considering how they are treated there.
Aside from the fact that the government apparently sent loyalists as fans to clean up the imagery from the first game, I have typically found that Iranians often have a very complicated relationship with the government and country. A lot of pride combined with a lot of anger.
I mean you can still support your country while not supporting your government. Iran was there before the current regime came into power and likely will be there after. The Iranians I know have a lot of pride in their country, their history, yet also have a deep dislike for their government.
likely expats living outside Iran. Iranian thugs were there filming and photo everyone who showed any form of protest shouting we know who you and your family are.
That's what makes soccer so much different than a sport like baseball or football. It's non-stop so you can't relax
Plus, Persian culture is one of the great historical traditions of humanity, with so many characteristics that transcend the current government and render it all but insignificant.
I understand this and experience it myself as an U.S. citizen who despises our political system and what's become of it. It's a little different when a woman is subjected to morality police for refusing to cover up. Not to mention the farce of an investigation into her "natural death" and treatment her family has been given following.
I don't like the strategy, but I get why Berhalter put in a back 5 and parked the bus. 270 minutes plus stoppage time and we've given up one goal, on a PK, that wasn't necessary to give up. Just over-aggressive play. Our back line is very good at absorbing pressure, and it's going to have to be a perfect cross for us to give up a goal this way. Berhalter was gambling Iran didn't have one in them the last 20 minutes, and the gamble payed off. Still, when we high pressed the first half, we controlled the game. Yes, pressing opens up for a quick counter, but just letting the other team have the ball the last 20 minutes does take years off your life.
