Wondolowski: Spain is in a different league

In their last warm-up before the Gold Cup tournament the US men national team lost to the World Champions Spain 0:4. Chris Wondolowski, similarly to the whole American team, did not have a good game, but he hopes to make up for it during the CONCACAF championship.

Can you recap the game in a few words?

CW: It was a tough game against a world class opponent. We lost and are not satisfied with the result, but by just playing those guys you learn and get better.

Coach Bradley said the same thing at a post-game conference, but can you give me an example of what exactly did you learn?

CW: They are the best in the world. It is amazing how well they position themselves on the field and how quickly they distribute the ball. Their passing is top-notch and their ability to quickly go from defending to attacking is simply amazing.

How different was it for you to play against the World Champions from playing in the MLS?

CW: No comparison, really. Those guys are professionals, the best in business. Not to take anything away from MLS, but Spain is in a different league.

Were you frustrated with the result and your inability to create a scoring chance?

CW: World Champions or not no one likes to lose 0:4 at home especially in front of such a great crowd. So of course I am a little frustrated, but it just shows us where we are as a team and how hard we have to work to make up that ground. In terms of chances – I was close to having a shot on goal, but I was pushed in the box by a Spanish defender, who prevented me from heading in a cross from Goodson. Apart from that I had no passes, which I could do something with. But of course it’s partially because of the way Spanish defense played.

You are only a couple of days away from playing Canada in your first qualifying game in the CONCACAF Gold Cup. If Bob Bradley lets you in even for a minute you will forgo a chance to play for Poland – no regrets?

CW: No, playing for Poland was never an option. I am really glad I am on a US national team and I am ready to start contributing. It does not matter, if I play a minute or a whole game. I plan on scoring my first goal in the next few games.

Tomek Moczerniuk
kemot74@optonline.net
facebook.com/papatomski