Here is, perhaps, the best way to sum up Jurgen Klinsmann’s debut as U.S. men’s national soccer team coach:
He is undefeated. But he is also winless.
There was plenty of bad — but enough good — for the U.S. to earn a 1-1 draw with Mexico in an exhibition match tonight at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
The Americans were lethargic in the first half, and paid for it when Oribe Peralta wrapped a leg around marker Michael Bradley to finish a cross from Andres Guardado in the 16th minute.
But the U.S. drew even in the 75th minute, when sub Brek Shea sent a cross along an unguarded goal line. Robbie Rogers, another sub, was there for a criminally easy equalizer.
Rogers could have had the game-winner in the 88th minute, when he took a long ball deep in Mexico territory, beyond both holding defenders. He had a clear chance on goal, but was dragged down from behind by Gerardo Torrado.
Torrado was given a yellow card, rather than a straight red.
Landon Donovan’s ensuing free kick ricocheted off the wall, to no avail.
In the second half, at least, the U.S. seemed more forward-thinking than under previous coach Bob Bradley. Possession in the midfield seemed to turn into scoring chances more often than not — but a few mishandled balls in the box cost the Americans dearly.
Mexican star Giovani dos Santos played the last 35 minutes of the game. He was largely contained by the American back line.
