Today in Enschede, Holland!

The US faces Italy in the FIFA WYC in the round of 16. The US won its group with victories over Argentina and Egypt and a draw against the Germans.

US Coach Sigi Schmid had this to say about the Italians.
“Italy has a big center forward (Graziano Pelle) who they try to target up front who’s good with his back to the goal and decent in the air. He had two goals against Canada. They’ve got a number of midfielders who are very busy and active. Number 7 (Marino Defendi) comes off the forward line a little bit, so he’s really a second forward or a very attacking midfielder. Number 8 (Lorenzo Carotti) is very active for them in midfield. Number 11 (Daniele Galloppa) is also a solid player. They play with one holding midfielder. So, a little bit like Argentina, with the four in the back and the one holding midfielder, we’ve really got to make life miserable for that holding midfielder. That’s the key for our success. We’ve got to make them defend us. Against Canada, they were able to get four goals because Canada didn’t make them defend enough.”

I must say that I believe the US stands a decent chance in this match. Some really good youth players are making an impact, with fullback Marvell Wynne being one of my favorites. Midfielder Eddie Gaven has also been effective in making quality runs in the attack.

Should be a good match! Of course my skills with the VCR mean once more I shall have to wait for the replay on Thursday evening to see it.....