Wil Trapp captains the United States in defeat against Ireland

Columbus Crew SC’s midfielder Wil Trapp earned his fifth international appearance and his third match wearing the captain’s armband for the United States Men’s National Team this Saturday, as the Stars & Stripes were defeated 2-1 by the Republic of Ireland at the Aviva Stadium, in Dublin.

Trapp, 25, was used by interim coach Dave Sarachin on his preferred role as the only holding midfielder of the team. Crew SC’s captain was directly involved in the team’s goal as he launched a 40-yard cross into the penalty box on a free kick which Matt Miazga flicked on for Bobby Wood’s finish right before the halftime whistle.

The Crew SC midfielder showed solid positioning and passing efficiency, skills Black & Gold fans are used to see of the team’s captain. Trapp played all 90 minutes and registered 39 completed passes out of 44 attempted, two, interceptions, two recoveries, one clearance, one shot, two fouls committed and took three corner.

Goalkeeper Zack Steffen, who was also on the roster, was left on the bench for this match behind starting goalkeeper Bill Hamid. The former D.C. United shot-stopper was shaky at times, especially when trying to catch crosses in the penalty box, and his hesitant attitude was on display on Ireland’s first goal, scored by Graham Burke at the 57^th minute. Alan Judge scored Ireland's game-winning goal at the 90^th minute.

The U.S. National Team will remain in Europe for another week, as the team will face France in Lyon next Saturday, June 9. Because of that, Trapp and Steffen, who will miss tonight’s match against Toronto FC, will not be available for Wednesday’s U.S. Open Cup matchup with the Chicago Fire and for Saturday’s Major League Soccer game against the New York Red Bulls. All three matches will be played at MAPFRE Stadium.