USMNT World Cup Player Ratings vs. Wales: Tyler Adams stands out as Walker Zimmerman foul costs USA

The United States men’s national team put in a far from consistent performance Monday in their World Cup opener, Wales drew 1-1. The Americans looked great in the first half despite not creating as many chances as Tim Weah scored, but in the second half, it was a very different story as Wales took control and Greg Berhalter’s team was on the ropes and Gareth Bale scored a penalty. Of course, it came after the biggest mistake of the game as LAFC’s Walker Zimmerman needlessly cut inside the penalty area, conceding the game-changing penalty.

But how did he and all the other Americans play? Here are our player ratings:

goalkeepers

The Arsenal goalkeeper had absolutely nothing to do in the first half, perhaps not even breaking a sweat. In the second, he made a wonderful save for Ben Davies in the 64th minute. He could do nothing with the penalty, yet he assisted in what was called a missile.

The Defenders

I got an early yellow card, but it was tough. On the ball, it was his touch at times, but most of the time he was solid. There were moments when his defensive position was called into question.

Sturdy and reliable, at least in the air, he cleans some dangerous balls out of the box that could cause big trouble. It was another story on the ground. His foul on Gareth Bale for conceding a penalty was reckless and surprising. He knew right away that he had made a huge mistake.

He did well early on with Bell by looking tough in the air, and was always composed. He maintained his good positioning late in the game and definitely got more minutes. But don’t be surprised if he doesn’t play against England because he has a yellow card.

Really a bright spot. Strong when playing the ball forward. He moved well, connected great with his team mates and helped create chances. He recovered the ball well and always looked ready.

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midfielders

The best player on the field. The captain was cool and consistent. Always play smart, check the ball, guide those around him, and lead by example. He got to deal with Bell late on and that was impressive. He is the heart and soul of this team.

Peppy, he breaks lines with his runs on several occasions to start the attack. He would have liked to have been more involved, but his chemistry with these guys is increasing, and it shows. It hasn’t been consistent, but we have to remember he’s only 19 years old.

It wasn’t McKennie’s best performance as the early card limited how aggressive he could be in offense. His death was not at his best, and he never participated in the attack. A performance like this should only fuel him though.

attackers

Hit the post with his first good chance, heading hard at the near goal. He was decisive in goal with his sustained play, allowing Christian Pulisic to get the ball and go. He faded a bit as the match went on but he’s still in a good turnaround.

He moved into space well and showed that speed to catch the ball off Sargent and feed Weah in the opener. He’s been dislodged quite a bit, so it will be worth watching how he recovers over the next couple of days. But his help was enormous.

He did well down the right flank in limited touches early on but grew as the game went on, scoring the first goal with a stunning volley just after the hour mark. His diagonal course was excellent, and he finished it off with class, definitely gaining more minutes from going forward.

alternatives

It just adds a little dynamic ability. His space transformations are awesome, and he’s given this team some juice it just couldn’t get away with. He probably should have gotten more than 24 minutes.

A powerful little shift highlighted by a good movement of the ball’s head towards the back post that wasn’t dangerous in the end. But his large structure and ability to protect the ball can be an advantage if used properly.

His performance would be remembered by his teammate Bale’s yellow card. The Welsh superstar had turned Turner off his line and aimed to score from midfield. Acosta didn’t give him a chance, treating him like he was playing the other football. Smart play.

A late sub managed to get the ball out once, winning his only ground duel. He had a number of chances to put the ball in the box but didn’t do much with it.

A late outsider had three touchdowns and was not a factor.

Coach Greg Berhalter

He had this team ready… to play 45 minutes. It was a good start for them and the energy was there. They played the ball smartly and didn’t give anything away. In the second, it was as if they were playing to keep holding on and their pain was finally over. Why not be more aggressive there? Not that they played scared, but he was very discreet, especially after the hour mark. Rating: 6