The United States men's national team, full of talent and confidence after a banner year from its Europe-based players, was given a valuable lesson on Thursday. Things like pedigree and reputation count for nothing when it comes to competitive fixtures in CONCACAF.
The good news is that the U.S. managed to prevail over Honduras 1-0 in the semifinals of the CONCACAF Nations League courtesy of substitute Jordan Siebatcheu's 89th-minute winner. It's infinitely more enjoyable to absorb lessons when you win. Now the U.S. will play Mexico in Sunday's final after El Tri beat Costa Rica on penalties in the other semi.