now in charge of the U.S. U-20 national team -- had to rely on a very young team. But in addition to Adu, Schmid was still able to call upon a number of age-eligible players plying their trade in MLS.
San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Arturo Alvarez captained the U.S. team in each of the side's two matches, playing a total of 159 minutes and notching an assist on the opening goal against Honduras. Columbus Crew midfielder Danny Szetela played every minute of both games, and MetroStars midfielder Michael Bradley got 65 minutes of action. Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Guillermo Gonzalez played a significant role in the win against Mexico, drawing the late penalty kick that Adu converted to claim the victory.
The USA fell behind Mexico early in Sunday's match, but according to Adu, the veteran leadership of the side's MLS players helped them pull out a win.
"Some of the younger players were a little overwhelmed and we had to calm them down, and then we started playing our game," Adu said. "Me and Danny Szetela and Arturo Alvarez and other guys that have been with the U-20s were able to calm everyone down through playing, and the guys responded pretty well."
Though the U.S. did not play Brazil -- the fourth team at this weekend's event -- they won the tournament by virtue of being the only team to go 2-0-0 through the weekend. The USA took home a $20,000 prize for finishing first.
This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
