Initial Impressions: Brazil 2 - USA 0
Brazil take their first victory in this post Russia World Cup 2018 era. The team played at half speed for most of the match and easily over matched their younger opponents. USA had several good chances off set pieces that left the Brazilian back line chasing shadows. I hope TIte continues to experiment in their next match against El Salvador. Let’s start with player ratings:
Allison: 8 ... had little to do but made an important save in the 2nd half.
Fabinho 7 ... Surprised he got the start considering he is not playing regular ball for Liverpool this season. HIs physical presence was welcome however his lack of pace stood out as a warning sign.
Marquinhos 7 ... played a steady game however looked lost on at least 2 USA set pieces
T. Sila 7 ... also had a steady match however worryingly out of sorts on 2 USA set piece plays.
F. Luis 7 ... Looked a steadying presence on the left but he is no Marcelo. Neither wing back lit things up as we’re accustomed to. Both content to remain at the midfield mark and play the ball in to midfield.
Fred 7 ... A nearly anonymous performance in the middle. Made a few runs up the middle but gave way to a cleaner, more active Arthur in the 2nd half.
Casemiro 8 ... A work horse in the midfield that cleaned up several tackles, spread the ball with vision, and looked to be the boss in the middle of the park. He will one day be a captain for this squad.
Coutinho 7.5 ... Had 2 semi attempts on goal and worked the left side of the field with Ney. Still am not convinced he works best as a pure midfielder.
Douglas Costa 9 .... The man of the match IMO. Had outright pace all night on the left. Provided the cross for the 1st goal. Constant threat all evening up the left and looked confient on the ball.
Firmino 8 ... Had a good goal, and yet had some errant touches off of Costa crosses that let him down.
Ney 7.5 ... Played in spurts throughout the match with moments of speed and clever touches.
Honorable mention: Arthur 6 ... Looked assured and classy in the middle of the park in his short amount of time. I would like to see him push the ball more but a good start for the highly rated Barca midfielder.