Brianna Scurry will start for the U.S. against Brazil. I see. The 36-year-old goalie is better at “reaction-type saves” than the 25-year-old. That must be why Hope Solo has started every game so far.The U.S. is the No. 1 team in the world. On the men’s side, Brazil, Italy, Argentina, etc. don’t change their lineup midstream, not with such a key position. They look at the opponent, and say “Here’s our best 11. Come and get it . .. if you can.”

Ryan should not let the opponent dictate a damn thing. He should tell his team to dictate terms and pace. Which admittedly is tough when your midfield is ignored and your team has been playing a bunch of bad long-ball soccer.

Oh, they will likely still win. But the coach of the supposed best team in the world is letting opponents know that they’re on his mind.