USA vs. Belgium - 2014 World Cup: Watch ESPN Live Stream Free, Schedule, Start Time & Players to Watch
- Angelica Leicht
- Jun 30, 2014 10:09 PM EDT
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The big question in Tuesday's match is whether the American underdogs hand Belgium their first loss in 13 games. Belgium's performance has been unimpressive during the group stage, but they still managed nine points to top Group H.
The Americans, on the other hand, made it out of Group G relying on grit and determined performances. It looks to be a very tight game, but this American team seems to be unafraid of all opponents.
When: Tuesday, July 1
Where: Arena Fonte Nova, Salvador
Start Time: 1 p.m. PT
Schedule: ESPN, Univision
Live Stream: ESPN
Players to Watch For:
Belgium:
Hazard (wing) - Although Hazard has struggled to produce during the group stage for Belgium, he was involved in the game winner against Russia. The Chelsea attacking midfielder is always a threat, but his defensive abilities might be called into question against the U.S.
de Vruyne (attacking midfielder) - The Wolfsburg midfielder typically plays underneath the striker for Belgium. He has created a number of chances for his teammates already in this World Cup. He will most certainly look to be involved with the Belgian attack.
Kompany (centerback) - Vincent Kompany, who captains both his country and Manchester City of the English Premiere League, has health that is questionable for tomorrow's match, but is almost sure to play. He is arguably one of the best centerback's in the world right now, as shown by his 10.4 million pound salary.
Courtois (goalkeeper) - Courtois and the Belgian defense only allowed one goal in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, a goal which came from a penalty kick. Regarded as one of the top goalkeepers in the world, he has been awarded the goalkeeper of the year in the Spanish La Liga the past two seasons running.
United States:
Dempsey (forward) - With a goal on Tuesday, Clint Dempsey could tie Donovan for the all-time American World Cup goal scorer. He could have a tough time finishing out of the air if Kompany is fit.
Beckerman (midfielder) - Kyle Beckerman is playing in his first World Cup for the Americans at the age of 32, and he is doing so brilliantly. Beckerman, along with fellow midfielder Jermaine Jones, have been a disruptive force and have made it difficult for opponents to break through the American line. He will need another outstanding performance for the team to make back to the quarterfinals since 2002.
American Centerbacks - It is still questionable whether Cameron or Gonzalez will start next to Belser as the second American centerback. But regardless, the combination will be a key element to the success or failure of the American performance.
Predicted Lineup:
United States: Howard, Beasley, Besler, Cameron, Johnson, Beckerman, Bradley, Zusi, Jones, Bedoya, Dempsey
Belgium: Courtois, Vertonghen, Kompany, van Buyten, Alderveireld, Fellaini, Hazard, De Bruyne, Mirallas, Lukaku
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