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.

The Americans must now regroup and forget about that game. They face Brazil on Thursday and Egypt on Sunday with a chance to advance out of their group.

Here are my match grades for the United States:

Tim Howard (6.5). Stopped many of Italy’s shots, but was undone by Rossi’s first goal and seemed to be screened on De Rossi’s goal.

Jonathan Spector (7). Put a stranglehold on the Italian wing play and the U.S. right back starting spot.

Oguchi Onyewu (6.5). Had a great game, rarely lost a header, shut down the Italian attack, but his gaff on De Rossi’s goal hurt.

Jay Demerit (6.5). Complimented Onyewu well in the center of defense, but slowed at the end of the game. If Bocanegra doesn’t play Thursday, here’s to hoping Demerit is in game shape.

Jonathan Bornstein (6). Stood up to the Italian attackers and showed good vision on outlet passing. The disallowed own goal is still sharp in U.S. fan’s minds.

Michael Bradley (7). Tackled with bravery and elevated his play after Clark was sent off. His missed chance on goal was his only blunder in an otherwise stellar game.

Benny Feilhaber (5). Attempted to bring creativity, but showed his lack of game shape, especially with Clark out. Feilhaber was dispossessed by Rossi for Italy’s first goal.

Ricardo Clark (3). Had a solid effort before a misguided and game-changing foul on Gattuso.

Clint Dempsey (5). Dempsey seemed uncertain as to whether or not he was playing for Fulham or the United States. His confidence is lacking in taking defenders one-on-one and his unsatisfactory pass to Feilhaber led to Rossi’s first goal.

Landon Donovan (7). The U.S. captain deserved the arm band for this match. His determination to push the ball led to both of the United States’ best scoring chances. His set-piece delivery needs to be refined.

Jozy Altidore (6.5). Altidore continues to find his game shape. The pass in the box he tried to give to Donovan should have been a shot on goal. The young forward needs to find the confidence to attack the goal.

Subs

DaMarcus Beasley (5). Didn’t look nearly as lost as he has looked of late. It seems his role off the bench will continue.

Charlie Davies (5). Gave great energy late in the game, but poorly placed an open header late in the game.

Sacha Kljestan (5). Put a solid shot on goal late in the match, but didn’t make much happen besides that.

Bob Bradley (6). Put a good product on the field that would have given Italy trouble all match but his game plan was negated by the Clark red card.