The United States will face its toughest challenge of the 2009 campaign when it squares off against the defending world champions, Italy. The Italians have a brought a star-studded team to the Confederations Cup.
Breaking down the veteran defense of the Italian squad will be a tough challenge. It does not help matters that the US has failed to click on offense and has not scored a goal from the run of play in its last two matches. The Americans seem to lack a creative spark and organization in the attacking third, which has led to few quality chances.
Talented striker Jozy Altidore has failed to live up his expectations this summer after a hat trick against Trinidad and Tobago. There are questions concerning his health following a lingering toe injury. Connor Casey started against Honduras, but he struggled and was substituted before making an impact on the match. However, if Bradley wants to deploy his traditional holding striker, Casey is the only option. It is possible that the US could line up in hybrid 4-5-1, with Landon Donovan playing an attacking midfield role. Donovan will need to use his pace to go at players in the attacking third.
Ricardo Clark, who had a very good game against Honduras, will have to play well for the Americans to keep things close. Michael Bradley will need to have a workman type performance as a box to box midfielder, while avoiding an early caution. Clint Dempsey has to be a constant danger on the right wing.
There are several options on the left wing. DeMarcus Beasley is the veteran of the group, but his his form is in question. Sacha Kljestan could provide some much needed creativity to the attack, but has also struggled with form. Jose Francisco Torres is another option, but he has fallen out of favor with Bradley after being at yanked at half-time against Costa Rica.
Carlos Bocanegra’s probable absence has led to a question mark as to who Bradley will pair with Oguchi Onyewu. Jay DeMerit came on as substitute in the Honduras match, and is expected to get the starting nod. However, another option would be to slide Jonathan Spector over to the central defender role. Marvell Wynne, who would fill in at the right back slot, did have a poor match against Costa Rica. However, Wynne has performed well in tournaments similar to the Confederations Cup (see U20s, Copa America, and the Olympics). Jonathan Borenstein looks like a safe pick for the left back spot, and he will need to provide overlapping runs and good service.
The Americans will likely need to convert a set piece opportunity and hope that Donovan and company can spring a counter attack. The defense will likely leak a goal or two. However, with Brazil and Egypt on deck, the US will need to take some chances and try to get the full three points.
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