Adu unable to dazzle DC fans

The Gold Cup was expected to be Freddy Adu’s opportunity to shine with the USMNT. With lower quality sides Haiti and Grenada in the group, Wednesday night’s game against Honduras was the game in which Adu’s play could be assessed against a tougher opposition before he leaves the team to join Benfica’s preseason camp. In 63 minutes, Freddy failed to dazzle the hometown crowd, which included 102 of his friends and family members.

Adu was guilty of a few too many touches several times during the first half. Early on, he was dispossessed easily while trying a clever turn 30 yards from goal. Later on, Adu found himself in a 1v1 matchup on the right wing that provided a great opportunity to attack with speed and flair. After a slew of stopovers, Adu still had not created much space and allowed several Honduran defenders to get back behind the ball before serving in a weak cross to the near post.

Freddy had some good moments throughout, such as his deft touch to Robbie Rogers that helped spring him past the Honduran backline. When he played simple 1-, 2-touch soccer, Adu also was effective in moving the US attack along. Adu was able to put himself in a good spot to get on the end of Heath Pearce’s cross in the first half, but his header was straight down the middle, making for a comfortable save by Donis Escober.

Adu had another opportunity to attack the Honduras backline with speed early in the second half, after Kyle Beckerman slotted a nice ball through the midfield. Freddy did not make the most of this opportunity, however, as he took a few too many touches before being stripped.

At times, it almost seemed like Freddy felt as if he had to show everyone his magic every time he touched the ball. Without a doubt, Adu felt some pressure to perform well in this game, particularly in front of his hometown fans. This led to him forcing the issue at times, opting for an elaborate, flashy play when a simple pass would have served better.

One must consider what effect rust has on the Freddy Adu we have seen thus far. With only 169 minutes of playing time at Monaco this past season, it’s understandable that Freddy’s game sense and technical abilities are not at their peak. Regardless, Adu might not have many more opportunities like the Gold Cup to show what he can do with the USMNT before next summer’s World Cup. Adu will need to have a strong club season to make his case to Bob Bradley for more playing time in the lead-up to South Africa.

-STTU