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USA World Cup Draw 2014: Analyzing USMNT’s Road to Knockout Stage
Published: December 7, 2013
They didn't.
Instead, optimism for a memorable run on the world's largest stage wavered as the Americans drew a dreaded "group of death" that includes Germany, Ghana and Portugal. According to MLSSoccer.com's Ben Jata, the group boasts the highest average FIFA ranking:
However, that doesn't mean that the U.S. are eliminated just yet. As Paul Carr of ESPN notes, the USMNT still holds the third best odds in the group according to Soccer Power Index numbers:
Here's a look at each of the opponents that the U.S. will see in the group stage as they fight to survive a difficult draw.
Germany
FIFA Rank: 2
World Cup Appearances: 17
Best Results: three championships (1954, '74, '90)
Of all the nations that the United States could have been placed into a group with, Germany may have been the worst-case scenario. The Germans are ranked No. 2 in the FIFA world rankings and placed third in the 2012 Euro championships behind a perfect showing in group play.
The Germans have also racked up a perfect record in World Cup qualifying in 2013, including a 2-1 win over France and 1-0 win over England.
With one of the most dominant squads in international competition, it's easy to see why the SPI in Carr's tweet gives Germany about a 90 percent chance to advance. But as Ian Darke points out, Germany's dominance could have its benefits for the U.S.
Portugal
FIFA Rank: 5
World Cup Appearances: 6
Best Results: Third-place (1966)
Portugal not only feature one of the top two ...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - International Football
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