U.S. Faces Tough Task in Last 2 Games

After the tough loss to Italy on Monday in opening game of the 2009 Confederations Cup, the United States must put in the same effort and even more to advance into the semifinals.

The U.S. plays Brazil on Thursday in what will be an even harder task than playing the Italians. The number of playmakers with speed on the Brazilian team like Robinho, Kaka, Elano, and Dani Alves will produce even more problems for the American fullbacks than the Italians did. Brazil did show that they could be beaten though. Earlier on Monday, Brazil faced Egypt and barely won 4-3, due to a late penalty kick made by Kaka, they were able to win. If the Americans thought that their game Sunday against Egypt would be easier, it will not be as Egypt almost played Brazil to a draw. The Egyptians pose a scoring threat as well with Mohamed Zidan. So how can the U.S. defeat these two teams and advance to semis?

They need to do a few things to keep themselves in the tournament.

1. Fullbacks have to step up and stop the wing players especially from Brazil. If Jonathan Spector and Jonathan Bornstein play like they did today, the U.S. should be alright.

2. Midfielders need to push forward when the opportunity is given. Michael Bradley can not be the only one pushing forward consistently. Whoever is playing alongside him in the central midfield, whether it be Sacha Kljestan, DaMarcus Beasley or someone else to replace Ricardo Clark, who was sent off in the first half of Monday's game, they need to penetrate the back four of both Brazil and Egypt.

3. Finish chances in front of goal.

The U.S. had very few chances against Italy in front of goal and did not succeed except for Landon Donovan's penalty. Jozy Altidore did a good job on Monday but he needs to finish his chances and put pressure on the opposing side to produce goals.

The United States defintely faces a tough task ahead, but it can be done with a perfect game being played by everyone and advance to the semifinals of the Confederations Cup.