The US have been doing fairly well in world football, but their major test lies against Netherlands on Saturday during an international friendly.
Netherlands might pose as a strong challenge at Amsterdam Arena and the Dutch are surely going to test the strength of Jurgen Klinsman's side. The US are aware of the tough task at hand as the Dutch have defeated Spain in their last international friendly as well.
Klinsman, US coach has given chances to a number of players to represent a case and find a slot in the national squad.
"We want to see now throughout that whole year, what was the learning curve from those players that we gave that opportunity to? Where do they stand right now?" Sports Illustrated quoted Klinsmann as saying.
The US need to treat the international friendly as preparations for the upcoming CONCACAF Gold Cup, which starts on 7 July. Not only are the US going to face a top side like Netherlands, but they are also going to be up against Germany in the coming days.
These fixtures will give them a fair idea about where they stand as well.
"I think with these two games with Germany and with Holland, now we can kind of close the loop and say 'OK, now we know where to put them in the ranking.' Eventually, it's down to naming a roster for the Gold Cup that is able to win that Gold Cup, and you have to kind of leave the transition phase or the experimentation phase on the side."
But Netherlands have not looked the usual dangerous side, which they resembled under Louis Van Gaal, who was replaced by Guus Hiddink after the former left for Manchester United job in England. Netherlands have looked below par in the 2016 Euro qualifiers as well as they lie on third place in group A with just 7 points. It is a must win game for Hiddink's men.
Hence, the team in orange will also be looking to up their confidence by defeating the US ahead of their crucial European qualifiers fixture against Latvia.
Hiddink has some problems with injuries in his squad as well with Ron Vlaar, Stefan de Vrij and Jetro Willems having fitness problems. Another major drawback will be the absence of Bas Dost, Wolfsburg striker, who withdrew from the squad due to hamstring problems.
But the US will also not be in full force, as they will miss the services of Jozy Altidore (hamstring) Alejandro Bedoya (knee) and captain, Clint Dempsey, awaiting birth of fourth child.
Where to Watch Live
The international friendly between Netherlands and the US is scheduled for 8:30 local time (12 am IST, 2:30pm ET, 7:30pm BST) start with no live TV coverage in India.
Viewers in the US can watch it live on ESPN and Univision Deportes with live streaming option on Watch ESPN and UnivisionDeportes.com
UK audience can catch the action live on MUTV.
