The US has taken care of business in the group stage and now it’s onto the knockout stage, where they face the winners of Group H in Belgium. Having won one game, drawn one game, and lost one game, the Americans look to make a deep run towards the final in Rio and with the way this World Cup has played out, anything is possible. The US will be looking to make it to the quarter finals for the first time since 2002, but I'll need to be on top of their game against a Belgian squad that is young and determined to make a strong run. What must the United States do to keep their prospects of their very first World Cup title alive??
1. SCORE FIRST- With this year’s World Cup being so unpredictable, the US must set the tempo of the game and get the first goal, preferably within the 20 minute mark. Force the Belgians to change their game plan and dictate what the style of play is going to be like. Having a scoreless draw late into the game will most likely favor the Belgians.
2. DEFENSE, DEFENSE- There have been times when the defense has looked impressive, especially with Omar Gonzalez against Germany, but then there have been times when they’ve left Tim Howard out to dry. The backfield needs to be on point against Belgium and can’t give up too many opportunities. This also means not to park the bus and get completely defensive if they acquire the lead early on.
3. BRADLEY, BRADLEY, BRADLEY- Look, I know most people have been ripping him apart for the overall lackluster performance, but he must play up to the level of superstar in order for the US to advance. There have been times where costly turnovers and miscues have led to chances for the opposing team, and this can’t continue to be a factor in the knockout stage.
4. BRING ALTIDORE IN- This doesn’t mean start him, but if he is truly healthy and ready to go, having Jozy Altidore subbed into the game midway or just before midway through the second half can perhaps be the difference between the US advancing or going home. They still need to give Clint Dempsey some support and this could be the move that does it for them.
This is the last round of 16 game, and the winner of this matchup will face the winner of the Argentina/Switzerland matchup earlier in the day. With the Belgians not having been that impressive in group play, it’s quite difficult to pick a winner in this game. With that being said, I feel as though the US will continue to relish in the underdog will and pull out a close victory in this one.
SCORE: 2-1 USA
*This article was contributed by Executive Producer Gregory Delaney, and completed before matchplay*
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