Goalkeeper Criticized for Conceding Panama's Winner
Former national team stars have criticized Matt Turner's performance in the USMNT's shocking 1-0 defeat to Panama. The Crystal Palace goalkeeper, who rarely plays for his club side, was beaten by Cecilio Waterman's 94th-minute strike, Panama's only shot on target of the match.
Tony Meola, a National Soccer Hall of Fame goalkeeper with 100 caps for the USMNT, provided a technical analysis of the decisive moment: "Matt Turner is a little bit tucked in near that near post... his feet aren't planted. He doesn't have some explosion to his right." Meola emphasized that in crucial moments, "a goalkeeper has to find a way to make a save."
Landon Donovan was more direct in his criticism: "My one surprise when I first saw the lineup was Matt Turner in goal. Not playing consistently, obviously. And he's not going to be sharp. And my first thought when Waterman scored was Zack Steffen saves that."
Turner's lack of playing time at Crystal Palace—just four appearances since joining on loan in August—has raised questions about his readiness for international duty. Meanwhile, Zack Steffen has been playing regularly for the Colorado Rapids in MLS, leading some to wonder if Pochettino should consider a change for Sunday's third-place match against Canada.
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