Graham Zusi (seen in blue with Sporting K.C.) scored for the U.S. (Brent Flanders/Creative Commons)

The defense struggled mightily

After a very respectable performance Saturday night, the United States ran into many issues against the Panamanian attackers, namely Blas Pérez. Pérez gave the U.S. defenders fits all night managing to get behind their line on multiple occasions; early in the second half, Pérez drew a red card off young standout Geoff Cameron. Fortunately for the Yanks, the ensuing free kick did not result in a good chance for Panama. 

Spectacular goalkeeping kept the U.S. ahead 

Panama had some quality chances in this game, including a one-on-one with goalkeeper Nick Rimando, but Rimando was on his A-game tonight, making amazing save after another. With the shaky line, the keeper needed to step up big, and Rimando was lights-out the first half. Sean Johnson was substituted in for Rimando at halftime, and while he was not required to make the same caliber of saves Rimando needed to, he was sharp.

Slow offense

Perhaps it was the hangover of the late win or the travelling, but the American offense exhibited more malaise than Saturday. Namely, Brek Shea looked exhausted and barely attempted to run past people. Teal Bunbury also seemed tired in addition to being quite selfish on the ball. He took one shot from outside the box in traffic for no apparent reasons besides wanting to pull the trigger. He had Shea making a run on the left and Graham Zusi doing the same on the right. Sometimes making the extra pass needs to happen. 

Here are some other quick thoughts: 

-- Once again, Jermaine Jones was very good going the full 90 minutes. While he appeared fatigued, he was still a maniac all over the pitch. It was good to see him play strong again. 

-- C.J. Sapong was a late substitute once again and was more effective than Saturday. He used his big frame to hold onto the ball in the waning minutes to keep possession up the pitch. 

-- Jeff Parke came in to central defense after the Cameron red card and was a weak spot in the back four. A very poor first impression for Klinsmann.

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