Why Jozy Altidore Was the U.S. Star Player Against Germany

Jozy Altidore’s clinical performance in the United State's 4-3 win over Germany justified why Jurgen Klinsmann consistently chooses him as his preferred center forward.

Certainly there are arguments for other players when debating who the star player was in the U.S.' massive international friendly victory over the world renowned German side. 

Clint Dempsey’s brace was definition Deuce. His first goal was a tidy finish inside the box, where his grit and clever positioning constantly brings him success.  His second goal might have been the highlight of the afternoon, a technically proficiently left-footed strike from well beyond the 18-yard-box after shaking off German midfielder Lukas Poldolski. 

Tim Howard made some typical solid saves, and the addition of Michael Bradley back into the lineup beefed up the bare-bones midfield version from the Belgium game.  Jermaine Jones also showed his workhorse qualities and cultured skills. 

But considering all these performances, it was Altidore who not only set the tone for the Yanks, but played to the sort of potential that his fans have been dreaming about. 

The opening goal was crucial for the U.S., who was coming off of a match where they performed like they did not belong on the same field as Belgium.  The goal relieved pressure, gave the home side confidence that they could play with a talented side like Germany and most obviously, gave the U.S. a 1-0 lead. 

It also showed off an aspect of Altidore’s game that makes him so appetizing: his superior technique in terms of finishing.  The one-touch volley was sublime, and his movement to get open so close to goal may have been even more encouraging.   

Altidore’s assist to Dempsey was another display of how the American is a multi-facetted striker.  His first touch following the beautifully weighted long ball from Jones was well taken and his service to pick out Dempsey was reminiscent of that of a visionary midfielder.

Apart from those two plays, Altidore’s positioning was disciplined and defined, particularly in the first half.  Instead of straying wide, as he is sometimes wont to do, the American stationed himself effectively within the channels of the center backs, causing communicational and spacing issues for the Germans.  He played quickly when necessary and allowed the States to bring numbers into the attack.

Indeed, Jozy will almost certainly be satisfied with his expert performance for the USMNT.  However, the celebrations cannot last too long as the true tests of June still await for Jurgen Klinsmann and company.  If Altidore can repeat his performance in the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers, than his match against Germany will be remembered as a turning point in his international career.  If he is shut down, it might well be considered an aberration. 

Time will tell.  Friday in Jamaica is the first test.