USA vs. Scotland: Team USA Looks Promising After Blowout Victory

After annihilating Scotland 5-1 in an international friendly, things are looking good for Jurgen Klinsmann and Team USA.

The Americans got off to a disappointing 0-4-1 start under the German-born coach, but he finally has his team clicking. With the victory over Scotland, Team USA has now won five straight matches.

It was a dominant performance from start to finish on Saturday, as Landon Donovan scored in the third minute and the U.S. was never seriously threatened after that. Scotland's only goal was actually scored in the 15th minute by American Geoff Cameron, who deflected a Kenny Miller header off his chest and into the net.

After that, it was all Team USA.

The Americans used an attacking 4-3-3 formation, and the move clearly paid off. Donovan notched a hat trick and two assists, while Michael Bradley scored his 10th career international goal with this nasty half-volley.

Overall, it was an exciting and encouraging match for Team USA, and one that couldn't have come at a better time. The Americans are entering a critical stretch of their schedule, and this kind of performance is exactly what they needed heading into the summer. 

They have two remaining friendlies against Brazil (Wednesday) and Canada (Saturday) before they begin World Cup qualifying on June 8.

They will start qualifying against Antigua and Barbuda, then take on a feisty Guatemala squad on June 12.

Although they will certainly be tested in the coming weeks, the Americans should be feeling good about their chances. They destroyed Scotland without forwards Clint Dempsey and Jozy Altidore, so they should be even more dangerous when those two return.  

Once their entire squad is together, we will have a better grasp of Team USA's World Cup chances.

If they continue to play with the aggression and teamwork they displayed on Saturday, though, this American team is capable of beating anyone.