TheNearPostThis shape is actually pretty much exactly like what Juergen Klinsmann used later in the U.S. - Russia game. Bradley is/ was at the tip of the diamond, with Jones in an almost free role on the left side, given the freedom to surge up the middle or drift to the flank. Another twist here is Graham Zusi, who will move wide right to whip in crosses and combine with Cherundolo, but also come slightly deeper for the ball and almost create a double pivot with Maurice Edu.

Donovan and Dempsey as a strike partnership seems to make both perfect and no sense at all. One is the highest goalscorer for the U.S.. The other is the country's highest goalscorer to have ever played in probably the best league in Europe. However, neither is a prototypical striker. Donovan's burst of pace is perfect for exposing high defensive lines. Dempsey also shows excellent aerial ability and movement in the box when the ball is wide. Moreover, they could easily feed one another. Donovan's crossing is excellent, and while Dempsey is no target striker, he's quite adept at holding the ball under pressure and has good vision.

It could happen. Juergen clearly switched the U.S. to a diamond formation similar to this one against Russia. He clearly was going for a win, and I don't imagine he would have used this shape if he didn't think it could help him do just that, especially since he has used this same shape before.

04.01.2013