No goals, but US gets points for its physical play

The United States failed to score a goal in three games leading up to its opening World Cup qualifying series with Barbados. But the experience of competing against England, Spain, and Argentina certainly helped prepare the team for the run to South Africa 2010.

Though Argentina set the tone in Sunday's 0-0 tie by dominating possession and creating chances, the US displayed an ability to withstand pressure and match up physically.

Argentina had routed Mexico, 4-1, four days earlier. Though the Argentines had a difficult trip from San Diego (a storm-induced overnight layover in Kansas City), the competition they faced against the US was much different from what they got from the Mexicans. Argentina faced a test of finesse and skill from Mexico, physical force from the US.

The US improved despite the three-game winless series, starting with losses to England (2-0) and Spain (1-0).

Also remarkable was the atmosphere at Giants Stadium. The crowd of 78,682 was the largest for a US home match since 1998 and the ninth-largest ever.

Nor were the stands dominated by Argentines. At least half the spectators were supporting the US, including a colorful and lively Sam's Army group that took up a section behind one goal.

Argentina's attack faltered after halftime, partly because Lionel Messi left the game, and partly because the team started looking ahead to qualifiers (against Ecuador and Brazil), instincts of self-preservation kicking in.

The US performance indicates that advancing through regional qualifying should not be difficult.

But the real progress must be measured by these types of games. Competing against European powers, plus South America's top teams, is the best way for the US to improve.

Besides qualifying, the next big test for the US will be next year's Confederations Cup in South Africa, a prelude to the World Cup.

Dempsey on the attack

Former Revolution star Clint Dempsey has demonstrated an ability to take on defenders at the highest levels, both with Fulham and the US team. Dempsey pressured the Argentines with his ability to run with the ball, and narrowly missed scoring when his shot was deflected by Gabriel Heinze in the 32d minute. After Dempsey was replaced early in the second half, the US attack faltered, reviving only when Argentina relaxed defensively in the late going. US coach Bob Bradley is attempting to balance the playing time of Dempsey and others who have had little rest since European seasons ended last month. "Clint is a unique player and he has grown in his overall understanding of the game, so he can apply his special qualities when he plays," Bradley said. "The thing that we have to deal with is that he has played a lot of games. As we enter qualifying, we have guys who have played a lot of games this year - Dan Califf, Steven Cherundolo, Tim Howard, Clint. And we have guys who have the exact opposite situations - Heath Pearce, Freddy Adu, Carlos Bocanegra, DaMarcus Beasley." Dempsey was sold to Fulham for $4 million, an MLS transfer record until last week, when Villareal paid $8 million for New York's Jozy Altidore. "The league has played a huge role in the development of players," Bradley said. "They are making waves and, hopefully, that will be good for all of us. Overall, it's positive for everyone." . . . Sergio "Kun" Aguero, who has combined with Messi and Julio Cruz in the Argentina attack, could be moving from Atletico Madrid. Chelsea is apparently willing to pay the 55 million euro buyout clause for Aguero. But Inter Milan appears to have the inside track and could get him at a reduced price by sending Dejan Stankovic to Atletico Madrid. Inter president Massimo Moratti has met with Diego Maradona regarding Aguero, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport. And Maradona apparently has a strong influence on the deal because his daughter is engaged to Aguero.

Revolution effect

The Revolution are missing three players for World Cup qualifiers: Shalrie Joseph (Grenada), Kenny Mansally (The Gambia), and Khano Smith (Bermuda). All are expected to miss the Revolution's visits to Houston Thursday and Real Salt Lake June 21. Mansally was on the bench for The Gambia's 0-0 tie with Senegal in Banjul Sunday. The Gambia, which has earned 2 points in two games, has two matches against Algeria in the four-team group. Grenada meets Costa Rica and Bermuda plays Trinidad & Tobago in two-leg elimination series.

Frank Dell'Apa can be reached at f_dellapa@globe.com