Bob Bradley has revealed his final squad for the world championships, but can the U.S. make an impression when hopes are so high? After South Africans, Americans are will surprisingly be the largest group present in the fans section this summer. This show of faith unfortunately has not turned into a convincing pre-World Cup run.
Tuesday night saw Bradley's Team USA lose to an unqualified Czech Republic on home soil 2-4. Albeit
Donovan, Altidore and
Dempsey were not present, this is still a difficult pill to swallow for American supporters. All 3 attackers will be in the lineup for Saturday's clash; eager to get on good footing to raise spirits before their historic opener against England.
The two english speaking countries have not faced each other in the World Cup since 1950, when the Yanks pulled one over their European counterparts. Joe Gaetjens 38th minute goal put the Americans ahead, who were able to hold on til the final whistle for a 1-0 victory against one of the world's top sides. This year's meeting is no less lopsided in terms of favorites, but the U.S. will feel they have a better chance against the British elite.
Although missing out on qualification for the 2010 finals, Turkey have found a good turn of form with new manager
Guus Hiddink. Last weekend saw the Crescent Stars defeat North Ireland 2-0 at home. This has just been the latest in their post-qualification success that included consecutive victories over Honduras and Czech Republic as well. Stars like
Arda Turan,
Hamit Altintop and Nihat Kahveci will not make it easy for Bob Bradley's men who were noticeably vulnerable last week against the Czechs.
The
United States have had a tough time in their post-qualification campaign, but this weekend Bradley will start his first 11 expected to face-off against England in June. Despite not booking a ticket to South Africa this summer,
Turkey have seemingly been resurrected under new management and will be a force to be reckoned with tonight in Philadelphia.
United States - Turkey
Saturday 29 May, 2010
Kickoff: 7:00 PM (GMT)
Venue: Lincoln Financial Center (Philadelphia)
Tip: United States +0 (Asian Handicap)
Best Odds: 1.73 @ Betfair
