V

It all comes down to this.

The good news is, our destiny is in our own hands. The not-so-good news is we need to get a result against the #2 ranked side in the world — Ze Germans — A win or a draw advances us to the knock out stages of the tournament but if we lose, then we’ll have to rely on the tie breakers (which I just don’t want to have to worry about).

Yes, a result v Die Mannschaft is a tall order, but I know the boys will be up for it. To no one’s surprise, Jozy Altidore has been ruled out, so we’ll probably see the same lineup that we did v Portugal with “The G.O.A.T.” playing up top again as the lone striker. It think it’s possible that we could see a change with either Alejandro Bedoya or Graham Zusi. We haven’t seen much impact from Bedoya in his 2 starts and yes, Zusi has 2 assists (and the assist on Dempsey’s goal showed some great poise), but he has never been an effective winger. I don’t know if the manager will play either Brad Davis or Julian Green, but it would be sure nice to have the option of running Landon Donovan out there wouldn’t it? But I digress.

I haven’t heard anything about Matt Besler’s hamstring, so my guess is we’ll be seeing the same back four again. Jermaine Jones and Kyle Beckerman will have to offer even more support to the back line than they have been. Portugal only had one guy they had to worry about…ze Germany have several, both in their starting XI and on their bench. It will be quite a test to keep them out of Timmy Ho’s net.

Apparently, there is some serious weather coming through the area so the pitch may be in bad shape. With this recent development, I can’t imagine we’ll see either team take too many risks to go for the win, so it may be a methodical match of trading off possession between the two sides as they try to find some space when given the opportunity to counter-attack.

Win, lose or draw, I think the boys will give a good account of themselves today which is all I can really hope for. Well, I guess I can hope that a bounce or two of the ball goes our way, but I’m not going to count on that!

The Shin Guardian did a good preview of the game here, so be suer to check it out.

Coverage starts Thursday at 11:00AM on

Also, if you’re worried that you won’t be able to get away from work for the match, have no fear. Jurgen Klinsmann has fashioned a permission slip to give to your respective bosses so they can excuse you from work today. Just click on the picture below, print it, sign it and be on your way!