But while many of the key players have remained the same over the last five years _ Bocanegra, Dempsey, Altidore, Landon Donovan, Tim Howard, Steve Cherundolo, Michael Bradley _ there is little evidence of growth. Slow starts have been a problem since the last round of World Cup qualifying, and no one has an explanation _ or worse, an answer. The U.S. still hasn’t developed an identifying style of play beyond grit and determination, a problem that plagues its lower-level teams, as well. And the deeper talent pool expected to follow the spike in American interest in the game has yet to materialize.
After years of being a sideshow, the Americans finally have captured their country’s attention. To keep it, they’re going to need to do more.
___
AP National Writer Nancy Armour can be reached at narmour(at)ap.org or follow her at http://twitter.com/nrarmour
'Your papers, please' must never be heard in America
Independent voices from the TWT Communities
Although contemporary American politics is an unforgiving environment, it’s still wide open to implement a legitimate worldview based on timeless Biblical values.
We all eat, and food should be fun and healthful. Food Commune celebrates the food we eat, the people we eat with and the spirits we enjoy.
First over-the-counter column approved for fast and effective relief from even your worst media-induced headache.
Benghazi: The anatomy of a scandal
13 Photos
Vietnam Memorial adds four names
18 Photos
Cinco de Mayo on the Mall
11 Photos
