U.S. Men's Soccer vs. Italy: 6 Things Jurgen Klinsmann Must Get Right to Win

Jurgen Klinsmann hasn't had a walk in the park as the United States men's national team (USMNT) manager, and now he faces a challenging friendly against Italy with the lack of José Torres, Landon Donovan and Timmy Chandler due to injury.

He needs to make some adjustments if he wants to win this one. Furthermore, it's time for Klinsmann to plan and decide which of these players can make it to Brazil 2014, as the squad will debut at the CONCACAF World Cup qualification next June.

Breake the Defense

Italy has a strong defense; it's tough to break its line, but not impossible. Sacha Kljestan, recently called to the squad, can help with that.

He's a very strong and fast attacking midfielder who knows how to create plays, distribute the ball and shoot on goal.

Counterattack

One of the best qualities of the USMNT is counterattacking, and this is going to be one of the cornerstones to winning.

Clint Dempsey, with 24 goals in 82 appearances, can make this happen as he's the top-scorer of the squad that will face Italy. His speed will make him a key player that Klinsmann needs to use as much as possible.

Ball Possession

USMNT can't lose the ball and must set the pace of the game. Short passes will be important to maintain control.

Michael Bradley will help with the task; he has the ability and experience to keep the ball and move it around the pitch.

Structure

Italy knows how to unbalance its rivals, so USMNT needs to keep structure and strong lines.

At age 33, Steve Cherundolo has shown a lot of personality and fortitude. Moreover, he's in good shape and will have a chance to become a link between the young guns and the veterans.

Balance

The USMNT can't afford to make radical changes in the strategy and peaks in performance. They need to have balance within the lines and plays they execute.

Captain Carlos Bocanegra needs to keep the squad focused and calmed. He's proven to be a real leader throughout his career, and in this meeting he has to show it even more.

Bocanegra needs to set the example through discipline, toughness and strength.

Young Talent

Klinsmann's roster has a nice mixture of veterans and young players, and it will be the latter that can make the difference.

Jozy Altidore has already proven his abilities as a fast and accurate striker, which will help USMNT unbalance Italy and give the squad good goal opportunities.

Altidore will have to work closely with Dempsey as Donovan won't be fit to play.