USA 2 - 0 Brazil [U17 friendly] 8th December 2007.

USA u17 1 - 0 Brazil u17
For you scouts who missed this one, here are some thoughts on some of the players on show here today in Florida for the Development Academy Nike Friendlies tournament.

For the U.S. team, there is a lot of talent on show. The full US national team has a bright future with these guys in the picture.

Carlos Martinez. He started the move in midfield that led to his nice goal - a deft flick with the outside of his foot with both feet off the ground. Seems willing to tackle and block as well as create.

Joseph-Michael Gyau[pronounced "Jao"]. He fed the ball to Martinez for his goal and looked a threat because he was so comfortable on the ball in midfield, though he was dispossessed once in the game. Looks like a real prospect for the future. Unexpected pullbackturn with back to goal on edge of box beat two Brazilian defenders.

Charles Renken. Only thirteen, but has trained with the full US national team. Very calm and composed on the ball. Was badly fouled by Mauricio and had to leave the pitch in the second half. He wants to play in Europe. He is, like Dennis Bergkamp, afraid of flying in aircraft.

Earl Edwards [GK]. Made ten saves, though none of these required great effort. Good positioning at near post to make saves. Looked proficient and solid.

Stefan Jerome. Scored the second goal from the penalty spot - opened his body at the last second to hit the ball right-footed past the Brazilian keeper's left hand. The penalty came after his skill on the ball caused a Brazilian defender to handle the ball on the ground. Good ball skills and perhaps the player with the most potential.

Brazil:

Their only player of note was Cotinho, number 8 attacking midfielder. The US bested their Latin American counterparts in every department.





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