The U.S. Men’s national team were brought back down to earth on Wednesday night as they saw their four-match winning streak halted by a 4-1 battering courtesy of Brazil.

The Americans had their chances, and played better in the second half, but the first half was a shaky display, particularly by a backline that looked particularly vulnerable in central defense.

The U.S. offense showed some positive signs, particularly with Herculez Gomez making his first start since the 2010 World Cup. Landon Donovan couldn’t duplicate the magic he delivered vs. Scotland, while Clint Dempsey looked good in a second-half cameo.

Read on for a rundown of how the USA’s lineup fared tonight against Brazil.

Made some tough saves, and couldn’t do much to stop Brazil’s goals. Won’t be taking his defenders out for dinner any time soon after a night like this.

Rating: 6

Neymar finished with a goal and two assists, but the goal was a PK and one assist was a corner. Cherundolo held up decently against one of the dangerous players in the world.

Rating: 5.5

A shaky night for the big centerback, who cost the USA a penalty and looked to lose his mark on another goal. Played better in the second half, but still struggled to keep up with the speedy Brazilian attack.

Rating: 4
 

Had his hands full with Leandro Damiao, and looked to struggle with Brazil’s quickness as the match went on. Was strong early, and remains the best centerback in the pool, but the match did show some of the weaknesses in his game.


Rating: 5

Looked extremely dangerous getting forward, and delivered some beautiful crosses. Assisted on the lone USA goal, and had another potential assist negated by a goal-line clearance. One of the two best American players on the night.

Rating: 7

Best American player on the field, and that’s becoming a bit of a routine. Played in a deeper role that didn’t really suit his strengths early on, but he came on strong as the match went on. His killer pass set up the Herculez Gomez goal and he drove the midfield in the second half.

Rating: 7.5

He showed his class at times, but also showed the volatility that can make him a liability at times. He brings some toughness that the U.S. team needs, but he clearly struggled to deal with Brazil’s quick combination play, which left him frustrated.

Rating: 6

Marcelo thoroughly frustrated Donovan throughout the first half, keeping the U.S. star from being much of a factor. Donovan got more involved in the second half but overall it was a forgettable night for a player who has had his share of success against Brazil in the past.

Rating: 5

Pushed into a more advanced role than he had against Scotland and didn’t really excel there. Struggled with his passing and possession, particularly in the first half. Might wind up being the odd man out in the crowded midfield, especially if Klinsmann goes to a 4-4-2.

Rating: 5

No player improved their stock more than Gomez, who made a strong case for more playing time with an outstanding night as the lone forward in a 4-3-2-1. He finished off one goal and had a second net-bound shot cleared off the line. Look for him to get more starts as the year rolls on.

Rating: 7

Had some nice moments, and pulled off some good moves, but overall it wasn’t a great night for a player who some expected to show well against Brazil. Their heavy defensive pressure made things tougher for Torres, who like Edu, might have hurt his case for being a sure-fire starter when qualifying begins.

Rating: 5.5

Came on as a 56th minute sub and provided an immediate spark. He clearly looked a step off, but was still a key in the team’s improved play later in the match.

Rating: 6