Nick Dorrington


The United States come into the Confederations Cup in decent form, having lost just two of their last 15 internationals. They are in a strong second place in their World Cup Qualifying Group and look all but certain to be back in South Africa this time next year. Their away form has, however, been less than impressive in recent times, with two defeats and one draw in their last three competitive games off of American soil.

Coach

Bob Bradley

Bob Bradley has performed impressively since making the step-up to the top job after his spell as assistant under Bruce Arena. The 51 year-old led the United States to the 2007 Gold Cup, thus qualifying them for this tournament, and has fashioned a solid young team that looks to have a promising future ahead of it.

Players to Watch

Michael Bradley – Midfielder – Borussia Mönchengladbach (Germany)

Son of the coach, Michael Bradley has swatted away early suggestions of nepotism to establish himself as a vital component of the national side. Scorer of both goals in their recent victory at home to Mexico, his influence is seemingly growing by the game, and there will be much emphasis placed upon him to pull the strings in the United States midfield.

Clint Dempsey – Midfielder – Fulham (England)

Dempsey has improved immeasurably since his move to English football in 2007 and played a big role in Fulham’s qualification for the Europa League this season, making just under thirty starts for the West London side. Close control and an eye for goal make him one to watch.

Landon Donovan – Forward – LA Galaxy (United States)

Donovan has much to prove following another disappointing attempt to establish himself in European football at the turn of the year. The Confederations Cup could be just the setting for him to show the world the ability that puts him among the very best in MLS.

Jozy Altidore – Striker – Villarreal (Spain)

It has been a frustrating season for Altidore, who has suffered from a major lack of game time since making the switch to Spain last summer. He will be keen to prove the doubters wrong with a strong performance in front of a worldwide audience and give new Villarreal coach Ernesto Valverde something to think about ahead of next season.

Prospects

The United States’ hopes of success in the Confederations Cup were dealt a severe blow when they were drawn in the tougher of the two groups, vying for one of two semi-final places with Brazil, Italy and Egypt. In such illustrious company it is hard to see them progressing, so the focus is likely to be shifted to the development of a young squad, many of whom will be experiencing their first major tournament with the national side.

Facing world-class opposition is not something that the United States do on a regular basis, so the opportunity is certainly there for the squad to pick up experience that could be vital if they wish to show well in next year’s World Cup. However, there is always the chance that outside of the fairly comfortable bubble of CONCACAF deficiencies that were not previously apparent could come to the fore.

Bradley has done a solid job thus far, but the Confederations Cup will be a good gauge of just how far he has taken his side.

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