The United States will head into their final two CONCACAF matches against Jamaica and Panama knowing that they already have a spot at next year's World Cup. But although the USMNT already booked their place, they are also in a tight race for first place in the group, and they could also spoil the party for Jamaica and Panama.
A victory over Jamaica would eliminate The Reggae Boyz, but if they were to allow the visitors to steal three points, that would give Winfried Schafer's squad some hope heading into their last match.
As for their match against Panama, Los Canaleros are tied in the fourth spot with Mexico, so that final match in Panama City will be full of energy and meaning for the hosts.
We will take a look at some of the main talking points involving the USMNT at the moment, and what the world can expect from Klinsmann's squad going forward.
Rating and reflecting on the USMNT's 2013 year
The Americans have enjoyed a great run of form over the last few months, although their initial start did not look so promising. After losing their first Hexagonal match in San Pedro Sula against Honduras, questions were being asked of Klinsmann and whether or not he was the right man for the job.
Since then, the former German international has led his side to five wins, one draw and one loss in the group, which has put them in the top spot with 16 points. Along with that, they also claimed the Gold Cup in a 1-0 victory over Panama with a 68th minute goal from Brek Shea.
But although they may have struggled in a match here and there, and may have looked average in some of their friendly matches, Klinsmann has managed to sort things out. A first place finish in the group would cap off an oustanding year for the US Soccer Federation.
The USMNT and its Donovan Factor
It goes without saying that Landon Donovan brings extra flare, experience and talent to the USMNT. We are talking about a 31-year-old striker who has enjoyed great success in the MLS, but has also spent some time abroad.
His time in Europe will have given him a different view of competitive football, and he has carried that with him in every match. From his decision making, vision and ability to put the ball in the back of the net, Donovan can be a key player for any squad.
After taking an absence from football, Donovan's future with the USMNT was up in the air. But Klinsmann decided to give the Galaxy star another go, and he certainly impressed at the Gold Cup.
Now that he is back and playing regularly, Donovan believes that he is playing some of the best football of his career.
"The enegery I had when I was 20 is pretty close to being matched now, but I have the experience of all the years," he told reporters last month. "Everything has really slowed down for me now. I see everything very clearly on the field. Everything sort of makes sense."
What does make sense is Donovan's inclusion in the squad for the remaining two matches, and next year's World Cup. He has contributed over 150 appearances and 57 goals for his country, and Klinsmann would be under serious fire if he failed to take Donovan with him to Brazil.
How the USA must approach the Jamaica and Panama World Cup qualifying matches
Both these matches will have a lot of meaning for the Americans, their manager, their fans and their players. For one, everyone involved will want to come out in the top spot of the group. But they will also be going up against two countries who need these points.
Jamaica's World Cup dreams are dependant of two victories from their last two matches, while Panama could also use the points. This means that neither team will lay down for Klinsmann's squad, but if the Yanks want to claim the top seed, they will have to work for it.
Respecting their opponent will be the key component in both these matches. Not allowing the fact that they have already guaranteed qualification settle in will help. And for some of the younger players, they will want to leave it all on the pitch in order to prove to Klinsmann that they too should make the trip to Brazil.
In favor of the USA is the fact that they defeated both these sides in their previous meeting. A 1-2 victory in Kingston over Jamaica was then followed up by a 2-0 victory in Seattle against Panama. Being able to repeat that and grab six points from their remaining two matches would set them well on their way to the samba capital of the world.
What we can expect from the United States at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil
Looking at the current squad that Klinsmann has at his disposal, and you add in some of the key players who are injured, you would expect the USA to make somewhat of an impact next year. Obviously that will depend on who they get grouped with, but not many countries will overlook the Americans.
They have a great balance of talent, experience and fighting spirit to cause problems against most teams. And although they may not have many high profile players who are known worldwide, the players that they do have are willing to leave it all on the pitch.
Adding to all of that will be Klinsmann's knowledge of the game. He has not only played on the big stage for his country, but he also managed Germany in a World Cup.
USA's October 2013 World Cup Qualifying matches - Live stream and TV info
- Where to watch USA vs Jamaica live on Friday, October 11, 2013
- Where to watch Panama vs USA live - Monday, October 15, 2013
LiveSoccerTV will also provide live scores of these two USMNT matches on the website. Stay tuned.
