Back in 2007 many United States fans were disappointed that Bob Bradley sent an "A" team to the Gold Cup as opposed to the tougher Copa America. But Bradley insisted that the focus lied on the CONCACAF trophy as it held a ticket to 2009's Confederations Cup. Bradley's side ended up winning the Gold Cup 2-1 by making a second half comeback against their number one nemesis Mexico.
Fast forward a year and a half later and the United States has been drawn into a difficult group that will surely test the team's ability and character. Earlier this morning, the Americans were drawn into Group B of the Confederations Cup, which will be played in South Africa next June, along side Copa America winner Brazil, reigning World Cup champion Italy and African champ Egypt.
Group A is much weaker as it consists of hosts South Africa, European Champs Spain, New Zealand and Iraq.
But each contest for the stars and stripes, even the one against low-profile Egypt, will present a different challenge to the Yanks and should make for an intriguing group. Don't forget that the confrontation against Brazil will be the United States' second under Bob Bradley, as the Americans displayed a valiant effort in a 4-2 loss in Chicago, Illinois back in September of 2007.
But the match most fans are looking forward to is the date with Italy. After the controversial, physical battle that ended in a 1-1 draw in 2006's World Cup, you can bet Americans like Landon Donovan, Oguchi Onyewu and Clint Dempsey want another go at the World Cup winners.
Could you imagine if Giuseppe Rossi gets called in to the Italian side? The American-born player who elected to play for Italy, would be in for the game of his life. Add in the fact that Bob Bradley has more young talent at his disposal than the 2006 side (with players like Freddy Adu, Josmer Altidore, Michael Bradley) and you've got yourself quite an entertaining game in a very entertaining group.
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