The United States have a pretty simple task. A win against Algeria and they are into the 2nd round. They could have had qualification wrapped up but thanks to an error by the official and slack defending in the first half. We will get to that later. The truth is that the USA must come out against Algeria and defend well.

Although the US might not be quite in sync, Algeria and Slovenia don't look all that good either. Algeria just recently got beaten by Ireland 3 to 0, and the Slovenians haven't played together since March. The Slovenians will be playing New Zealand this Sunday. This bodes well for us as they will only have one game together against inferior opposition before they start the World Cup.

This will be Algeria's third World Cup and their first time going back to the tournament since the 1980's. This team finished first in Group C in African qualifying. They have had some baffling results leading up to this tournament. The African Cup of Nations saw them beat by Malawi 3-0. Then they beat African powerhouse Ivory Coast 3-2.

Friday couldn't arrive soon enough for Robert Green after his gaff against the Americans on Saturday. Whether or not Green will continue in goal is one of several decisions Capello must face this week. A change of formation will be mulled over, along with who will partner John Terry after Ledley King picked up a groin injury early in the first half against the U.

Here at American Treble we always enourage soccer fans to come and contribute to the blog. Our friend Jason Kelley has given us a preview of the upcoming match between the United States and Algeria on Wednesday. Jason lives in Savannah, GA, and like Kirt is an Arsenal supporter. Unlike Kirt he supports the Yanks!