U.S. Men’s National Team head coach JURGEN KLINSMANN
On the match against Russia:
“We saw a very entertaining game. Russia proved why they are one of the best teams in Europe, and we wanted to see how good we are against such a strong team. I think you saw we can compete with very good teams in the world. The way our team fought back twice after being down a goal was great. It showed a lot of personality. It showed a lot of character. This is a young team, and a team that is growing. We are pleased with the game overall, and to score in the last minute was great.”
On the introduction of several young players into the roster:
“It was important for us to introduce some younger players to the senior level. I think they all did great. There is nothing to lose for them in a game like that. They can only win. Obviously, Joshua Gatt won his first cap for the United States. So, you are pleased for them. For us, it’s important that we have these youngsters grow step-by-step. Our team over the last 6-12 months grew a lot. We developed a lot more personality and confidence to compete with the best teams out there. We still have a long way to go, but I think we have a very good path and these younger players are a very important part of this path. Hopefully, we get more opportunities to give them playing time.”
On the slow start and how the team got better as the game progressed:
“At halftime we said to the team if they continue to play like they did the 20-25 minutes before halftime, then we have a game. There’s a whole half to play, and maybe we can equalize or win that game. For our players it’s important that in an international game you have to be spot on from the first second on. We have to be sharper and mentally fresher in those decisive moments. We can’t give away things like we did the first goal, but I think I see a team that is really growing together. We have even more youngsters and players coming through. We are pleased that we have great leaders like Tim Howard, Jermaine Jones, Michael Bradley… I think they are role models for the younger players so they grow around them. Geoff Cameron is becoming a very important player. I think you saw Jozy Altidore today was a handful. He gets a big, big compliment for his performance.”
