Busy Summer for the American Soccer Team

This month kicks off a key stretch of games for the United States men's soccer squad. They are in the midst of qualifying for next summer's World Cup, and will also be participating in the FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa two weeks from now. Later on this summer, they will defend their title in the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

But first thing's first. Bob Bradley's squad will continue World Cup qualification tomorrow with a huge road match at Costa Rica. The Americans have never come away victorious in the famed Estadio Saprissa, and historically these two squads have an even record against each other.

To add importance to the game, these two teams lie atop the qualification standings through three games:

1. United States (7 points)
2. Costa Rica (6 points)

3. Honduras (4 points)

4. Mexico (3 points)

5. El Salvador (2 points)

6. Trinidad & Tobago (2 points)

A U.S. victory would almost stamp their passport to South Africa next year with a four-point lead over anybody else, approaching the halfway point. A loss would put Costa Rica atop the table and put the Americans' World Cup hopes in danger with tough upcoming games against Honduras and at Mexico. A draw would be satisfactory, I think, and would keep the U.S. on pace for first place.

The United States has been dominant at home, so they should defeat Honduras just three days later in Chicago. But this is no guarantee since Los Catrachos will be well-rested and are a quality team anyway. Besides, they were the last team to defeat the United States on home soil earlier this decade, so nothing is a given.

Six points would be incredible. Four points would be pleasing. Three points would be okay. Anything less would be disappointment. Go USA!