Football, or soccer as they call it in the United States, is far from the number one sport in a country of approximately 317 million people. Having to battle against a number of other major sports, the USMNT has come a long way over the years. Their first World Cup presence was in 1930, where they finished third, making that their best ever finish in the tournament. From 1954 to 1986, the Americans failed to qualify for the tournament, but since then, they have taken part in six consecutive World Cups, with Brazil being their seventh.
Ranked 14th heading into the tournament, Jurgen Klinsmann’s side are far from favorites. They will try to improve on their 12th place finish in South Africa, but a very strong Group D will be a tall order.
Knowing that the top three teams in the Hexagonal would get a guaranteed spot in Brazil will have motivated all six teams in the group. The fourth placed nation would have to take part in a playoff, and after the USMNT’s first match against Honduras where they lost 2-1, fans and critics were extremely concerned.
Putting that defeat behind them, the USA went on to top the group with 22 points, while scoring 15 goals and conceding only eight. Their defensive unit will really be put to the test against Germany, Portugal and Ghana.
Michael Bradley to lead the midfield
When he first came on the scene, fans were critical of the Toronto FC midfielder, claiming he was only on the squad because of his father being the manager. Over the years, Bradley has earned the respect of fans at the club and international level.
In the absence of Landon Donovan, Bradley and Clint Dempsey will have to use their talent, as well as their experience. Both have played in Europe, and if the USMNT are to pull off any surprises in the group stage, they will have to lean on both of them to pave the way to success.
Jurgen Klinsmann
The German manager has had his highs and lows while in charge of the USMNT. To start the Hexagonal he got some criticism in regards to how the squad was performing, but he was able to steady the ship. But after making his final decision on the 23-man squad that is going to Brazil, Klinsmann will have a lot of questions to answer if the Yanks put on a poor performance.
He has played at the highest level for club and country, and the US Federation as well as their fans will be hopeful that he can use that to his advantage. Failure to at least put up a fight could really put his job in jeopardy, especially after the exclusion of the countries all-time leading scorer.
On the plane to Brazil
Landon Donovan will not be on the plane to Brazil, unless he decides to head down their on a vacation. The LA Galaxy star did not make the final cut, much to the frustration of most American fans. Without him, they are missing a lot of experience, and the ability to score goals, but that will give players like Jozy Altidore and some of his younger teammates to make a name for themselves.
Where to watch the USMNT
For all the info you need in regards to the USMNT from their schedule, live stream, start times and broadcasting info, please visit the USA match page.
