USA vs Brazil Preview

Not a typical preview today.  This will be the fourth match-up between the two sides since September 2007, when Brazil won 4-2 in Chicago.  The other two match-ups were at last summers Confederations Cup where the US fell 3-0 in the group stages, but then held Brazil on the ropes for 45 minutes in the final game and succumbed 3-2.  Both teams bring experienced but exciting squads to camp but both only had one training session together.  MLSnet.com reported this as Brazil's first team choice in training:

-------------------------Victor

Rafael-----David Luiz-----Thiago Silva-----Daniel Alves

-----------------Ramires-----Lucas--------

Neymar----------------Ganso------------------Robinho

--------------------------Pato

That's a pretty intimidating front line.  Amazing that this is primarily their second team.  This lineup suggests a redirection in Brazilian football, back to their old "samba" style.  Neymar, Ganso, Rafael, and Pato are part of the youth movement that Brazil is sure to bring back in to the side which featured several aging veterans under former manager Dunga.  But Mano Menezes is instilling a side which is sure to feature more flashy players but who can still get the job done.

As for the United States, I reckon this could be the end/or close to the end of the Bob Bradley era.  One last go in front of the home fans.  At least, that's what I would like to see.  As far as a lineup goes, here is who I believe Bob Bradley will go with.

--------------------------Howard

Cherundolo-----Goodson-----Bocanegra-----Bornstein

-------------------Bradley---------Edu

Donovan----------------------------------------Feilhaber

-------------------Altidore-------Buddle

A dangerous but conservative lineup that gives the US the best chance to do damage against a young Brazilian back four.

Ticket sales have surpassed the 65,000 mark, so the stadium should be rocking and could come close to the capacity of 82,566. 

More information will be posted as it becomes available.