USA vs. Colombia: The Pre-Match Tailgate
The U.S. men's national team takes on the Colombian national team tonight at PPL Park (8pm, ESPN2) in a match that should provide a stiff test for an American squad sure to feature several fresh faces.
The 2-2 tie against Poland on Saturday provided some positives and negatives, but tonight's match will deliver completely new challenges. Colombia features a stingy defense as well as a dangerous attacking duo in Radamel Falcao and Giovanni Moreno.
Veteran defenders Carlos Bocanegra and Steve Cherundolo have returned to their European club teams after starting against Poland, opening the door for the likes of Heath Pearce, Jonathan Spector and Eric Lichaj. Bob Bradley will choose between those three to fill two fullback spots, while also deciding on who to start in central defense against some dangerous Colombian strikers.
There are also questions to ask about the offense and whether Bradley shakes things up dramatically. Given the short turnaround time it is unlikely he starts the same from six, with Eddie Johnson and Alejandro Bedoya potentially earning starts.
SBI will be providing extensive coverage from tonight's match, but for now, feel free to share your pre-game thoughts and opinions in the comments section below.
