Just as we saw on Wednesday night with the United States National Team, Darlington Nagbe can have a tremendous effect on the game. Since the Portland Timbers took off last year on their run to the cup, Nagbe has been one of the most influential players in Major League Soccer, pulling the strings in the midfield, taking on opponents, and combining with his teammates to create numerous dangerous opportunities. His play in the center of the field, along with Diego Valeri and Fanendo Adi, has made the attack tick. Over the next two games, potentially longer if the United States progresses out of their group, the Timbers will have to find a way to replace Nagbe and everything that he does for the team.
Stumptown Breakdown: Filling in for Darlington Nagbe
