USA vs Spain

June 23, 2009

Few would have bet against Spain reaching the semi-finals of the FIFA Confederations Cup South Africa 2009 but the identity of their last-four opponents has surprised everyone. Not even the most optimistic of USA fans would have tipped Bob Bradley's team for a place in the knockout phase after they lost both their opening games in disappointing fashion. Yet the Americans whipped up a perfect storm in the final round of games in Group B on Sunday 21 June to snatch second place in the section from Italy and Egypt.

The Spanish can be excused for welcoming USA's unexpected presence at this late stage. After all, before the tournament started the European champions were bracing themselves for a stern semi-final test from reigning world champions Italy. But now that the CONCACAF Gold Cup holders have negotiated their way out of a fiercely competitive group, Spain would be well advised to treat them with maximum respect.
After making several changes for the final group game against South Africa, with every member of the squad bar third goalkeeper Diego Lopez having enjoyed some playing time, Vicente del Bosque will field his strongest line-up once more. Iker Casillas returns in goal, determined to chalk up Spain's fourth clean sheet of the competition, while Xabi Alonso and Xavi will reclaim the central-midfield reins. Up front the deadly twosome of David Villa and Fernando Torres will continue their private duel for the adidas Golden Shoe.
In contrast Bradley has plenty of selection issues to ponder. His decision to hand starts to goalkeeper Brad Guzan and forward Charlie Davies paid off handsomely and the US coach will surely be tempted to keep faith with them, while also considering the role of Clint Dempsey, who made a decisive contribution against the Egyptians as an attacking spearhead.

Wednesday's meeting between Spain and USA will be a special occasion for Jozy Altidore, who signed for Villarreal last year but spent the second half of the season on loan at Xerez. The big American striker will be returning to the Yellow Submarine for the upcoming league campaign, where he will team up once more with Spain squad members Joan Capdevila, Santi Cazorla and Diego Lopez. Which of them will be smiling when the final whistle blows at the Free State?

"It's always tough to win when you're the favourites. We'll need to work hard to reach the final," Spain defender Gerard Pique.
"We came up against Spain before EURO 2008 and we played a great game. We've been watching them during this tournament and we've been taking note of their style. We know how to stop them and we are very confident," USA coach Bob Bradley.

Semi June 24 1st Group A vs. 2nd Group B 2:25 p.m. ESPN, TF






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