The United States performance in last summers Confederation Cup has resulted in all time high expectations for the team going into South Africa this summer. The U.S. team was able to defeat Spain, the then number one team in the world, 2-0 as well as take a first half 2-0 lead over now number one ranked team, Brazil. The U.S. team didn't seem to have much trouble qualifying this year either, despite playing typically solid teams like Mexico, Costa Rica, Trinidad, and Tobago. The teams first match of the Cup is set for June 12 against England. This match-up is anticipated to be the most difficult for the U.S. in the first round with many expecting the U.S. to focus most of their energy on the defensive end. The next two games include Slovenia on June 18th and Algeria on June 23rd. Both of these games are expected to be significantly easier for the U.S. team which may give them the opportunity to catch up on points in hopes of advancing to the next round. All in all the U.S. teams success in the World Cup is look much more promising then usual which is nice to see. However, I still think it if the U.S. has any hopes of advancing into the later rounds of the tournament they will need to be playing at an all time best.
Donald Crandall
KIN332i Sec. 2
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