Feb 11, 2009
American defender Carlos Bocanegra may not be one of the biggest names on the two rosters that will meet at Columbus Crew stadium Wednesday night. However, the 29-year-old captain of the U.S. squad will certainly have his say in the match.
As an international player for the United States, Bocanegra has met his share of criticism. First capped for the U.S. in 2001, the Upland, California native struggled to find his place in the American squad until 2003 when he led all defenders with 13 appearances and was a stalwart during the U.S.?s run to a third place finish at the Gold Cup.
Used by Bruce Arena as both a central and left back during qualifying for the 2006 World Cup, the UCLA product seemed to have a hard time cementing his role as a sure-fire starter for the U.S. Despite unsure role, and stiff competition from a number of defensive prospects, Bocanegra made two starts at left back during the World Cup.
After the disappointment of Germany, new national team manager Bob Bradley seemingly turned to Bocanegra to help bring some continuity to the U.S. back line. Since wearing the captain?s armband for the first time in June of 2007, and holding the honor through the 2007 Gold Cup championship run, Bocanegra has become Bradley?s first choice captain.
A move to France in the summer led to the former Fulham player regaining his form and heading into Wednesday night?s showdown with Mexico, Bocanegra is the undoubted captain of the U.S.A.
Strengths:
The biggest strength Carlos Bocanegra brigns to the table is his ability to organize the back line. A vocal leader and intelligent player, the Rennes man?s best quality is his ability to keep his back four, and the midfielders in front of them, in working order throughout the match.
While his organizational skills are without question his best attribute, Bocanegra also brings a wealth of defensive skill into the match. He is a dominant player in the air and, teaming with Oguchi Onyewu, allows for some level of comfort in dealing with set pieces and crosses. The American captain is also a sure tackler with a knack for filling passing lanes and breaking up combination play.
Maybe the most underestimated ability in Bocanegra?s arsenal is his attacking prowess. The defender has been known to score goals in big spots for both club and country and is always a danger on set plays.
Weaknesses:
Two weaknesses show up when breaking down the captain?s play.
First, his pace is not exceptional. Too often Bocanegra gets caught chasing the play when he fails to intercept a though ball. His speed does not allow for him to make up ground on most forwards. He is also suspect when dealing with balls played in over the top.
Second, he struggles with stronger forwards. This particular attribute is often covered up by the massive Onyewu, however a powerful striker can play with his back to goal effectively in front of Bocanegra.
Influence On The Match:
Bocanegra is the leader of a back line that will need to be well organized in order to deal with Mexico?s attacking style. The off the ball, free form, running of the Mexicans from midfield is always a challenge for any defensive group. The Americans have dealt with the dilemma well in the past by being well organized and holding their shape, rather than chasing the play.
Captain Carlos will be in trusted by Bradley to make sure both his fellow defenders, and the defensive midfield pairing of Kljestan and Bradley, know their duties throughout.
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