Can They Do It?

Remember about 10 years ago when the United States introduced Project 2010, which was geared toward the Americans winning the 2010 World Cup? Seemedd of ambitious at the time, and it turns out, it was. The United States probably isn't going to win the World Cup this year.
But, that doesn't mean it can't be a successful tournament. But only if the U.S. beats Algeria today (right now, in fact!). A win and the Americans move on to the knockout stage. A loss, and they're probably out. And they can't afford that.
Not after failing miserably in 2006, not getting out of group play and losing most of the momentum they'd built up with a solid 2002 tournament.
After a solid tie against England and a disappointing but well-fought tie with Slovenia, the United States are in position to move on to the next round, and even surprisingly win Group C. That would be a big step for U.S. soccer.
So, can the United States win today? Of course, and they should.
Coach Bob Bradley made some surprising moves today, most notably leaving out Oguchi Onyewu, who has struggled at center defense coming back from injury. A huge key will be the play of Herculez Gomez at forward alongside Jozy Altidore. The U.S. needs Gomez to be a threat.
The United States has to come out strong, something it has yet to do. They have to attack from the start and put Algeria on its heels. Algeria is not a strong attacking team and the United States have to prevent them from having any easy chances. The U.S. marking in back hasn't been great and teams have gotten too many easy looks. Nothing can come easy for Algeria. That means strong marking on set pieces and preventing counterattacks.
Mostly, the United States have top play like the favorites. They have to be confident, strong, attacking and set that tone from the start. Game's on! Let's see if they can do it.