:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/61254363/usa_today_11202625.0.jpg)
While the United States was defeated by Brazil and looked generally ineffective on the attack, the back line — particularly the center back pairing — is a source of optimism and hope for the future. Based on his performance, Stars and Stripes FC readers voted and selected Matt Miazga as Man of the Match.
His standout moment came in the 51st when he cleared Neymar’s effort off the goal line.
Matt Miazga goal line clearance vs. Brazil #CFC pic.twitter.com/jZ9d2f8FFw
— The Blues (@TheBlues___) September 8, 2018
Miazga has earned eight caps with the national team since making his debut in 2015. He’ll likely be a key player moving forward, partnering with either Cameron Carter-Vickers or John Brooks.
Following the friendly, fans, pundits, and writers took to Twitter to praise his play.
Hard to really have many takeaways from that game. Better 2nd half than the first. Matt Miazga was the best US player on the field, Robinson looked better once Costa was subbed out, and I'll take Acosta over Trapp on set pieces every day of the week.
— Future USMNT (@FutureUsmnt) September 8, 2018
Yedlin and Miazga were fantastic tonight
— Major League Shocker (@MLShocker) September 8, 2018
Miazga was our best player tonight and is probably our best defender overall. Someone cast a protective spell on his body for the next four years.
— Rob Usry (@RobUsry) September 8, 2018
I've been entertained by this game and am encouraged by the Miazga/Brooks partnership. I also won't let a naive performance from Robinson sour me on him. Kid's got heart & talent.
— Matthew Doyle (@MattDoyle76) September 8, 2018
Now go ahead and string me up.
Stick Matt Miazga in the center of the #USMNT defense and leave him there for the next eight years
— Ryan Rosenblatt (@RyanRosenblatt) September 8, 2018
Miazga is currently on loan with Nantes in Ligue 1 and has made three appearances this season. He previously spent two season with Vitesse in the Eredivisie. The 23-year old New Jersey native joined super-club Chelsea in 2016 after three seasons with the New York Red Bulls.
Check out the rest of your player ratings below:
Zack Steffen - 6.59
DeAndre Yedlin - 6.28
Matt Miazga - 7.29
John Brooks - 7.04
Antonee Robinson - 4.80
Wil Trapp - 5.03
Paul Arriola - 3.95
Weston McKennie - 5.89
Tyler Adams - 6.06
Julian Green - 5.04
Bobby Wood - 4.61
Tim Weah - 5.50
Kellyn Acosta - 5.31
Gyasi Zardes - 4.60
Cristian Roldan - 4.67
Marky Delgado - 4.48
Is Miazga the correct MOTM to you? Let us know in the comments.