World Cup qualifying continues for the U.S. soccer team tomorrow at historic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. So why do the Americans feel so much confidence going into tomorrow's matchup?
U.S. soccer has never won at Azteca Stadium putting up an 0-22-1 record overall. However, don't let that discourage you. The Americans have won nine of the last ten matches against Mexico, including a 2-0 victory in February in Columbus.
The last time we saw this particular group of guys represent U.S. soccer, they took Brazil to the brink before collapsing down the stretch to lose the Confederation Cup final.
There are many factors that make winning at Azteca Stadium so difficult. The stadim sits more than 7,000 feet above sea level, the smog will make it diffcult to breathe, and the stadium holds more than 100,000 people. All those factors stand in the Americans way probably more so than the Mexican team itself.
There is a lot more pressure on the Mexicans. If they come up with anything less than a win, then their chances for qualifying for the World Cup in 2010 will be drastically decreased.
The Americans are on the complete opposite side of the spectrum. They could lose this game and still be in great shape for qualifying for the World Cup.
That still shouldn't take away the importance of this game. The Americans have already had a historical year after defeating Spain and almost defeating Brazil after leading by two goals at one point.
A first ever win at Azteca Stadium would build even more confidence for an American team that is finally starting to get some respect from the rest of world, including fellow Americans.
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