How will the USA prepare to face England on June 12th? It’s not an elimination match by any means, but it will set the tone for what’s to come. ONELOVE’s own Jonathan Elbaz took on the task of outlining some strategies for how LD and company can make an impact on day 1. Do you agree with Jon?

Elbaz on USA vs England:

1. Pressure the English midfield immensely when they get the ball. Gerrard, Lampard, Walcott, Lennon, etc are too dangerous when they have time and space.

2. Take advantage of their overlapping full-backs, in order to start a counter-attack. Glen Johnson and Ashley Cole are acclaimed attack-minded defenders who have the caliber to dish out assists and even score from defense.

3. Physically man up to them. The Premier League is known for its physicality across the world. Going in for some tackles and winning challenges could surprise them and take them off their game.

4. Don’t let England score first. They’re too good at holding possession and have such talented players, who can create opportunities almost at will. The USA must constantly keep their heads in the game for the entire 90+ minutes.

5. Play hard. Everyone expects England to win, and the element of surprise may benefit the USA. The USA has shown its capability to compete at a high level, beating Spain 2-0 in the Confederations Cup.

My very own American Starting XI: Tim Howard (goalie), Steve Cherundolo (right back), Carlos Bocanegra (center back), Oguchi Onyewu (center back), Jonathan Bornstein (left back), Michael Bradley (center defensive midfield), Stuart Holden (outside right midfield), Clint Dempsey (outside left midfield), Landon Donovan (center attacking midfield), Jozy Altidore (striker)

And let’s not forget about 1950…

Group Information:

Algeria do not look to have a star-studded team. However, they play well as a team and are very physical. They are one of the best teams from the African continent and deserve respect.

Slovenia also doesn’t have the big names, but they don’t give up. They’re not intimidated of anybody and will play hard no matter what. Let’s not forget, they prevented an impressive Russian side from competing at the World Cup.

England have a battered squad, with so many players suffering injuries and many others dipping in form during the European season. Capello is a great manager and led the English to a stellar World Cup qualifying campaign, so expect a lot from this British side.