US readies for Mexico clash in Ohio

Wednesday marks the opening of the final round of CONCACAF qualifying for World Cup South Africa 2010, but it also marks the renewal of the heated USA - Mexico series.  Once again Mexico must travel to face the Americans in Columbus, Ohio, a place Mexico has yet to win or even score a goal in its previous two qualifying trips.  The US won both qualifiers in Ohio 2-0.  The Americans are also 8-0-2 against Mexico on US soil since 2000.

The trip also comes at a bad time for Mexico as they have struggled mightily over the last year losing recently to Sweden, Jamaica and Honduras.  They will also be missing several players out with suspension or injury. 

The big drawback for the Americans is that the domestic players are out of season and thus match fitness could be an issue.  A majority of the US squad is playing overseas and thus will be primed and ready to go.  Landon Donovan has made a good start in Germany and should be a force in the match.  Steve Cherundolo will be missed as he is out with injury. 

Look for a very strong American midfield with the likes of Donovan, Dempsey, Beasley, Sacha Kljestan and Michael Bradley.  One question is who will Bob Bradley choose to play up top.  Will it be Dempsey and Ching?   Expect Tim Howard in the nets and strong defenders Oguchi Onyewu and Carlos Bocanegra in front of him.