The Daily Dirt: FIFA narrows presidential list; USMNT U-23s fall in Brazil

Taking another step toward the post-Sepp Blatter era, FIFA has whittled its list of eight candidates for president down to five. Michel Platini, Musa Bility, and David Nakhid have all been ruled out for one transgression or another. That leaves Prince Ali Al Hussein, Sheikh Salman Bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, Jerome Champagne, Gianni Infantino, and fan favorite Tokyo Sexwale in the running.

USA U-23's vs. Brazil: Final score 1-2, Brazil dominant despite flattering scoreline [SSFC]

The USMNT U-23 squad played the first of two friendlies against Brazil in Recife Wednesday night. The scoreline looks respectable, but when a Brazil-dominated first half, red card, and penalty decision against the home team are considered, it's clear the United States was pretty well outmatched.

Meet Matt Miazga, the future of the USMNT defense [SBN]

The USMNT's back line has been less than stellar in recent years. Hopefully Miazga can live up to the hype and help turn things around.

Crystal Palace set for deal with 76ers owner Joshua Harris - sources [ESPNFC]

It looks like Crystal Palace will become the latest Premier League club to be handed over to American ownership. Like so many American soccer fans, Harris apparently picked Palace as his club after watching a few games on TV. While it's a cute story, surely anyone who would volunteer to be a Palace fan isn't fit for a leadership role.

What's happening in The A?

The Hawks returned to the win column Wednesday night with a 106-98 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans at Philips Arena. The Pels got off to a hot start shooting and a double-digit first-half lead, but without Anthony Davis and Jrue Holiday they ran out of gas.

Having traded just about every recognizable piece of the roster over the past couple of years, the Braves are now considering offers for shortstop extraordinaire Andrelton Simmons. The Angels are interested, because who wouldn't want the best defensive shortstop in the game. After overcoming initial reactions of shock and disgust, Braves fans might want to keep their minds open regarding the rumors.

The Falcons seem to have three strong candidates for Pro Bowl consideration.