When a Possession Game Doesn't Work

In watching the USA Men's team play the Egyptian squad the other day, several things came to mind. One, while possessing the ball is usually a key ingredient to winning a game, it isn't that necessary and the other item I noticed is passion can carry you quite far.

With the planets lining up just perfect for the USA men's team to advance to the semifinals, you couldn't help but notice how the team from Egypt had a lot of possession time on their side, but they never got a ton of dangerous chances. So while possession is great, doing something with some penetrating passes is also important...it just never really happened for them.

Secondly, how about the fight the USA team put up? Talk about desire and passion rolled into one. They clearly wanted the game more and won in my opinion, because of that! Their work rate all game was terrific.

So what I learned from that game is ball control by itself is not enough, you need to mix in some plays and take some chances with the ball. Also, while your skills may not be the best in the world, you can show heart, determination and hustle which will carry you far as well.

Tough day for the Italians and Egyptians, but a great day for the Americans!

Have a great day!

Gary

www.soccerandspeedcoach.com