U.S. Soccer confirms clash against world's 'No. 1' Argentina

• by Soccer America , Mar 28, 2008

Fresh off its 3-0 at Poland, the U.S. men's national team faces an ambitious schedule of friendlies as it prepares for the start of 2010 World Cup qualifying this summer. After playing England May 28 at Wembley and Spain June 4 in Santander, Coach Bob Bradley's men host Argentina June 8 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.

Argentina is currently No. 1 in the FIFA World Ranking , ahead of Brazil, Italy, Spain and Germany. The USA is ranked No. 28.

Argentina beat the USA, 4-1, at last year's Copa America. In 2003, the Americans fell, 1-0, to Argentina in Miami. In 1999, the USA beat Argentina, 1-0, in Washington, D.C.

In one of the greatest upsets in U.S. soccer history, the USA beat Argentina, 3-0, at the 1995 Copa America in Uruguay.

On June 15, the USA hosts Barbados in the first leg a two-game series, the winner of which advances to the semifinal round of Concacaf World Cup qualifying play. Barbados hosts the second leg on the weekend of June 21.

If the USA advances, they most likely will its in a semifinal group will likely comprise Cuba, Guatemala and Trinidad & Tobago.

"Argentina is clearly one of the best teams in the world and playing against an opponent of that caliber is a great opportunity for our team," said U.S. coach Bob Bradley. "Combined with the matches against England and Spain, we have put together a very good schedule to help us prepare for World Cup qualifying. We expect it will be a fantastic crowd at Giants Stadium, and we are looking forward to an exciting atmosphere."