“The Selecta American tour started with a tie, adding on the winless streak to 20.”
FIFA International breaks are always special. This includes the CONCACAF Nations. El Salvador went on tour in the United States for a series of friendlies against Bonaire, Argentina, concluding in Texas vs. Honduras.
El Salvador played the first game of the tour against Bonaire in Washington, D.C., at Audi Field, the home of D.C. United. The fans responded by attending the stadium, although the scenario was different from what we are used to seeing in an area with a high Salvadoran population.
From the first whistle, a dominating Salvadoran team was expected to create chances and goal opportunities. The team came with a 5-5-2, which Doniga later displayed for the first time as a 4-4-2. The big surprise of this game was Nathan Ordaz’s senior team debut, who plays for MLS side LAFC and has played two matches in the current season.
During the first half, Bonaire affected El Salvador’s mental tactics, especially in the midfield area, making it challenging to create death in the defense against Bonaire. The clearest chance to score was in the 38th minute of the game.
During the second half, El Salvador came out with eight substitutions. In the 62 minute of the game, an own goal by Germán Fuentes gave Bonaire the lead. As far as the goaltending started, Mario Gonzalez was unavailable for this game. El Salvador responded with a goal by Pablo Punyed, who returned to the national team after almost three years of absence.
Time was ticking, and El Salvador did not have more time to try to win the game. The disappointment of the Fans in attendance was evident, and the players felt the same. Some opted to get all the good out of all the bad.
After the game, Nathan Ordaz spoke to the press, expressing his frustration and self-criticism for not scoring.
“We played well, but I need to score; you know we all need to score, and we can’t make those mistakes, but we played well. We need to take advantage of the opportunities, score them, and keep that result safe,” Nathan Ordaz said after the game.
He was asked whether Ordaz will continue suiting up for El Salvador. An uncertain Nathan responded with a simple answer.
“No comments.” Nathan added.
Nathan admitted that his decision to represent is not up to him; there are factors to evaluate. Nathan will be absent for the next two games because he has no Salvadoran passport. Bonaire is not affiliated with FIFA, which allowed him to play.
Pablo Punyed talked to the media and took the best out of the game.
“These games are for us to learn and keep working.” Punyed Said.
He noted the mental aspect and the current winless streak.
“To end the streak, we need everyone because it is what it is; winning is a habit, and losing becomes a habit. The fans are anxious about winning, but we need to take the small steps. Results will matter in June and September.” Punyed added.