USA vs. Argentina isn't an Ideal Matchup

Tonight the USMNT faces off with Argentina in the Copa semifinals in a David vs. Goliath matchup. Argentina has taken no prisoners so far, registering a 4-0 record with 14 GF and only 2 against and is coming off a 4-1 drubbing of upstart Venezuela. The Argentinians boast as dominant a front line as you'll find in the world, led by Angel Di Maria, Gonzalo Higuain/ Sergio Aguero, and some guy named Messi. While their northern rivals Brazil may have brought their 'B' squad to the Copa, Argentina has made it clear that they came here to win a trophy.

The US has been the surprise team of the tournament. The Americans are riding a 3 game win streak against solid Costa Rican, Paraguayan, and Ecuadorian sides who all qualified for the 2014 World Cup, but will be without starters Bobby Wood and Jermaine Jones. It will be interesting to see who Klinsmann decides to go with to fill those holes, though one would assume his plans include Darlington Nagbe and Christian Pulisic. Defense will be key for the US in this one. If the US can slow down the South Americans' attack they just might be able to parlay defense into offense on the counter and possibly steal a goal or 2. Michael Bradley will need to be almost perfect in the holding midfield role for the Americans to have a chance, but he does have a knack for rising to the occasion on the big stage. If the US want to get on the score sheet they will rely heavily on Clint Dempsey to capitalize on the presumably limited amount of chances he gets. The US has had 2 more days than Argentina to prepare for this game so let's hope Klinsmann has something up his sleeve because we're going to need it.