Mexico vs. USA: Why Landon Donovan Will Be Key for Americans in Friendly Matchup

United States' forward Landon Donovan will be the biggest key for the Americans when they take on North American rival Mexico in an international friendly on Wednesday, south of the border.

According to Yahoo! Sports' Patrick Johnston, US Men's National Team head coach Jurgen Klinsmann has called up the veteran player to help lead the Stars and Stripes past Mexico.

The United States have never defeated the Mexicans on their home pitch, and will need Donovan to play up to his potential in order to change history this summer.

Here is why the 30-year-old LA Galaxy striker is absolutely key to America's hopes in their friendly matchup with Mexico.

Supreme International Scorer

Landon Donovan's 49 career goals for the USMNT is the most of all time, and they speak to his prowess in front of the net for the Americans.

Donovan scored three times at the 2010 World Cup, and is the highest-scoring American man in World Cup history thanks to his supreme international scoring ability.

The star forward has nine goals in just 19 matches with the LA Galaxy this year, and will surely demonstrate his unique ability to put accurate shots on the net against Mexico on Wednesday. 

Unmatched Experience

Donovan has been playing with the USMNT since 2000, when he was a teenager. Now at age 30, Donovan relies heavily on his experience in big international matches to help him deliver.

Few players internationally have given so much time and effort to their national teams, and that's why Donovan is such an important piece for the US this summer. 

He has played in hostile territory against Mexico, and he has been a part of stinging losses and unbelievable triumphs. 

His experience will be huge for the Americans at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on Wednesday: a place where the soccer gods and the Mexican supporters have not been kind to them in the past.

Gifted Playmaker

No player in the history of the USMNT has more assists (all time) than Landon Donovan. He has 48 since joining the senior squad in 2000.

Donovan's playmaking strength is what makes him one of the most versatile forwards in the game today. He can create his own shot, as well as shots for teammates.

The California native can morph from a striker to an attacking midfielder at any moment. When he does so, the United States is usually at its best.

Expect Donovan to be a creator for the Americans in the final third against Mexico. After all, he has nearly as many assists as goals over the past decade-plus that he has been with the USMNT. 

Donovan's versatility and his wealth of experience on the pitch makes him the biggest key to US success against Mexico on Wednesday, without question. 

Follow Bleacher Report Featured Columnist Patrick Clarke on Twitter For More International Soccer Reaction and Analysis.