We checked in with U.S. Hall of Famer Tab Ramos after the U.S. national team finished fourth in the Concacaf Nations League with losses to Panama (1-0) and Canada (2-1). Ramos played for the USA in three World Cups (1990, 1994, 1998), was an assistant coach at the 2014 World Cup, and he coached the USA at four U-20 World Cups.
SOCCER AMERICA: What was your reaction to the USA’s Concacaf Nations League final four losses? Were you surprised?
TAB RAMOS: I was extremely surprised. We had given this team time and had seen some signs of a team that was trending up. I expected, and in my mind demanded, for all of those moments to start coming together this week in meaningful games against average teams.
SA: Any aspects of the USA’s play that you found particularly troubling?
TAB RAMOS: The lack of desire to punish the opponents’ mistakes all over the field and the complete lack of ideas and chance-creation in possession.
SA: The U.S. team could barely create scoring chances in either game. To what does one attribute their inability to unlock Panama’s defense? Or Canada’s?
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