Yank 2010 Draw Reactions - Key to the City

All things considered, the 2010 draw for SA must be looked upon as the first victory in the finals for the USMNT. Though passage will not be a forgone conclusion, the alternatives to the reality of Group C seem a more daunting nightmare. Not only does the competition in the group appear to favor American passage, but travel arrangements and geography , along with a general familiarity with their home base area all suggest the Americans hold the keys to the round of 16.

England is the obvious choice to provide the Yanks with their toughest test of the Group Stage. A draw, or dare I say win, in the 1950 rematch would prove a dream start. Neither is beyond the capabilities of Bob's side, but a performance on par with that of the Confederations Cup triumphs would have to be in order. That being said, for better or for worse, the Brits pose a different challenge than the Spaniards or Brazilians did. A physically gifted group that would have the upper hand on flighted balls and restarts, as well as (depending on team selection) pace to burn down the flanks could cause major problems for what may prove to be a cut and paste backline for the US. This is also the same backline is still searching for an answer to the enigma that is left back. Nothing, however, should come as a surprise to Bradley and company as a litany of his squad ply their trade week in and week out in England's top flight.

After the Brits, a perplexing Slovenian side awaits. Still the team that surprised Russia in the playoff, they lack the instant recognition of any big names. A team that will surely rely upon their cohesiveness, organization and desire, it resembles a team that could be likened to a Greek side from Euro '04 (organized and driven). The US should expect to be favored in the match, but must be wary of such precedents as the Iran debacle of '98.

Another surprise addition would be the Algerians to round out group play. Once again, a side that the US will have little familiarity with going into the match which is always a tricky proposition. Qualification out of a strong CAF field after upsetting bitter rival Egypt is no small task. Players, coaches, pundits and supporters alike will expect an American result from this match as well, which, in a perfect scenario, could be a game the US are looking to gain goal difference to win the group. Both matches after the opener should be ripe with opportunities for athletic American forwards (Jozy, Clint, Landon, Robbie Findlay, Jeff Cunningham or whomever they may be) to exploit spaces behind and between less gifted backlines.

The draw, however, will only ultimately be considered favorable upon successful passage to the knock phase. At least for this WC cycle in South Africa, the USMNT has been handed keys and shown the correct door in the game show of FIFA ping pong ball lottery. Now they only need to seize the opportunity and open the door.