American players hoping to make an impression on U.S. coach Bob Bradley before he picks his World Cup roster have one last chance Wednesday night in Amsterdam playing the Netherlands.
In its final match before the World Cup team gathers in mid-May, the United States plays an exhibition at the Netherlands Amsterdam Ajax stadium, against the world's third-ranked team. The Dutch and Spain were the only teams in European qualifying with perfect records -- the Netherlands was 8-0 and outscored opponents 17-2 in coasting to first place in Group Nine. Even with Robin van Persie still sidelined after tearing ankle ligaments in November, Dutch coach Bert van Marwijk could start Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, Arjen Robben and Dirk Kuyt up front in a stiff test for the U.S. defensive line and goalkeeper Tim Howard.
"My last memory playing Netherlands in Amsterdam Arena was not the best," midfielder Landon Donovan said. "I think we chased the ball for probably 90 minutes, so it's hopefully a little different this time. Hopefully, we have a little more of the game. It's really our last chance against a top, top, team before the World Cup and so we want to make the most of it."
After this game, the Americans gather in mid-May and play exhibitions against the Czech Republic (May 25, possibly in East Hartford, Conn.) and Turkey (May 29 at Philadelphia), with a June 5 exhibition against Australia in Johannesburg also possible. After playing England, the U.S. meets Slovenia on June 18 before finishing the first round five days later against Algeria.
For more: Last chance for US players to impress Bradley - USATODAY.com
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