United States vs. Italy: Clark's Red Card & Rossi's Goals Down the U.S.

Ricardo Clark and the United States lost to Italy 3-1.

Ricardo Clark’s red card in the 32nd minute doomed the United States, as they lost to Italy, 3-1 in their first group stage match of the Confederations Cup.

What a difference three years makes, or does it? The United States and Italy, playing each other for the first time since the 2006 World Cup, recaptured the intensity in Pretoria, South Africa.

The U.S. left the field with questions, complaints and no points. Did Ricardo Clark’s foul on Gennaro Gattuso really deserve a red card? Probably not. But it was a late challenge with no attempt to play the ball. Clark did little to persuade the referee to give him a lesser penalty.

After Clark’s sending off, the U.S. performed admirably. Hustle and dedication can carry a team a long way, but with a teammate in the locker room, not long enough.

The U.S. managed to find themselves leading at halftime, 1-0, from a Landon Donovan converted PK that Jozy Altidore drew. The score was equalized by substitute Giuseppe Rossi’s (yes, he was born in New Jersey) 30-yard cannon shot. Rossi’s goal lifted the Italians and condemned the U.S.

Rossi's long-range goal sparked the Italian comeback.

Danielle De Rossi followed with his own long-range goal in the 71^st minute and Rossi capped the night with another goal in the 90^th minute.

Enough about Rossi. The American-born striker grew up with the objective to play for the Azzurri, and all the best to him. Let’s just hope the U.S. can stay away from Italy for a while, just long enough to let that stinging sensation subside.

No points are given for moral victories, but the U.S. demonstrated substantial improvement from their recent World Cup qualifiers. The back line played well and in rhythm, even without Carlos Bocanegra.

Michael Bradley stood up to the Italian midfield after going a man down and Landon Donovan finally found a fit in the U.S. lineup by playing under Jozy Altidore.

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