USA vs. Brazil: Selecao Offense Will Destroy American Defenders

Brazil's attacking players will run roughshod over America's defense in today's contest on FedEx Field.

The United States national team just defeated a short-handed Scotland squad, but Brazil is a completely different animal.

They are the most feared and respected national team in the world. Talent, discipline and a flair for the dramatic always have Brazil clawing for international glory.

The Americans are riding high off their victory over the Scots, but they need to check themselves. This is Brazil.

Let's look at Brazil's offensive players and why they will embarrass the American defense.

Brazil's Attackers

Brazil's squad boasts an incredible amount of firepower.

Up front, you have Hulk and Neymar.

Hulk only has 10 international appearances and two career goals, but he is a force to be reckoned with. His bulky build and quick acceleration create a ton of stress on opposing defenses. If you give Hulk space, he will punish opposing goaltenders.

Neymar is one of the best young offensive players in the world. He has 16 career appearances for Brazil's national team with eight career goals. He is known for his pace with the ball and open-field vision. He is a dangerous scorer with a high level of creativity.

Attacking midfielders Oscar and Lucas provide added punch to Brazil's attack. Oscar only has three career appearances with the Brazilian team, but was a proven weapon on Brazil's under-20 squad.

The Selecao team boasts a laundry list of dynamically skilled players throughout their country's history. They are a breeding ground for blue-chip soccer talent.

The American defenders will be severely overmatched in today's international friendly.

American Defenders

Every American defender has their flaws. The group is not completely void of strengths, but their strengths pale in comparison to Brazil's attack.

Carlos Bocanegra and Steve Cherundolo are both solid, smart defenders. They are both also 33 years old, and have combined for nearly 200 career appearances. Their age will hurt them against the young, energetic Brazilian attackers.

Oguchi Onyewu is physically imposing and skilled, but knee injuries have slowed him down the past few years. He will be tested with Brazil's strength up the middle.

Fabian Johnson is also a question mark. He is a skilled player, but he shies away from physical play. If he shies away today, he will be overrun by Brazil's blend of size and speed.

The American have only beaten Brazil once in 16 career matchups. There's a reason for that.

American soccer is not up to Brazil's level, and that is no different this year.

Be sure to tune into ESPN 2 at 8 p.m. to watch these two national squads tussle.