It's been an encouraging first 45 minutes for the United States, but they've failed to turn their solid play into clear-cut goal scoring opportunities. They're tied 0-0 with Costa Rica after 45 minutes of play in their international friendly match, and that's not because Costa Rica are playing fantastic defensively. The Ticos have been surprisingly lackluster and have not put any pressure on the United States, and it's a bit surprising that they've been unable to create a high volume of chances.

The USMNT are playing a very fluid five-man midfield that has Maurice Edu as a deep-sitting defensive midfielder. The other four players have played various roles, with Landon Donovan and Jose Fransisco Torres both covering deep while also getting forward, while wingers Brek Shea and Robbie Rogers have switched sides.

Costa Rica's strategy, if it's intentional has been a very odd one. They are not putting pressure on the ball, allowing the United States' back line, Edu and Torres to have lots of time on the ball. At the same time, when they do make challenges, they're making sloppy fouls. Honestly, it's been a sloppy game in general with both teams committing silly fouls, getting caught offsides frequently and struggling to complete passes in the final third.

The fluid nature of the team and the amount of possession has been encouraging for the United States, as has the fluid nature of the midfield. However, Costa Rica is allowing them to play this way with a lack of pressure, and they look like they're going to have to make some changes if they want to find a goal.