WORLD CUP TEAM: USA

World Cup Football Boots: USA

Fifa Ranking: 14

Form Ahead of the World Cup

Despite a hard slog of a qualification process, the USA squad did enough to overcome their competitors when it mattered and qualified with ahead of some good teams . They also excelled in the Confederations Cup in South Africa last year, with the highlight being their victory over European Champions Spain who at the time were on a record unbeaten run.

Key Players

Landon Donovan and Michael Bradley.

Landon Donovon proved a few doubters wrong during his spell at Everton last term. Having previously had an unsuccessful spell in Europe at Bayer Leverkusen, some thought that European football was a step too far for the LA Galaxy number 10. However he flourished at Everton and is undoubtedly a major force and inspiration for the US national team, whether it be creating, or getting on the end of goals.

Michael Bradley is the son of manager Bob Bradley, but there is no nepotism in his selection. Bradley is a clever midfielder who leads the central pack well along with the more experienced Dempsey and Donovon. Has a knack of getting in the box when it matters.

The Gaffer

Bob Bradley is often cited as too defensively minded, but he has a good record since taking over as manager. He’ll need to have his wits about him to go far, particularly due to the lack of fire-power at his disposal.

Prediction: Round of 16.