Netherlands 2-1 USA
International Friendly
3 March 2010
The Dutch dominated most of the play but a late surge from the United States made for an interesting finish.
The Netherlands would grab the lead in the first half with a penalty converted by Dirk Kuyt in the 40th minute. They would double their lead midway through the second half as Jan-Klaas Huntelaar scored on a shot that was deflected.
The United States struggled to hold onto possession and get any scoring chances for most of the match. With an 0-2 deficit to overcome, the Americans would pull one back in the 89th minute as Carlos Bocanegra headed a free kick into the back of the net. The USA continued to attack and had a few more chances including a Jozy Altidore shot from outside the box but none would reach the back of the net.
It would end as a 2-1 win for the Netherlands and not a strong performance for the Americans. Bob Bradley did not have his strongest side (because of injuries) and did give some players a chance to prove themselves (Robbie Findley) so a win was likely unrealistic. The match does show that the USA still has a way to go to compete with the top several countries and how key some players are to the team (Dempsey, Onyewu, and Davies).
Netherlands 2-1 USA Video Highlights
Full Highlights
Kuyt 40′ (1-0)
Huntelaar 73′ (2-0)
Bocanegra 89′ (2-1)
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