Mexico vs. USA: American Stars Set to Shine Bright in Friendly Matchup

The United States and Mexico are set to clash on Wednesday night (8 p.m. ET, ESPN2) from Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where a handful of American stars will shine in their friendly showdown with their North American rival.

United States legend Landon Donovan will be suiting up for the American side, which will give them an experienced goal scorer to throw at the Mexican defense, while veteran goalkeeper Tim Howard will protect the net for the Stars and Stripes. 

Donovan and Howard are not alone, though, in the quest to shine in Wednesday's friendly matchup.

Let's get to it. 

Tim Howard

Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard has made 78 appearances for the United States senior squad, and is one of the planet's top keepers thanks to his athleticism and ability to see and predict where the ball will go. In Mexico City on Wednesday, Howard will need to be at his absolute best in order for the Americans to avoid falling behind early.

Howard and the US defense are sure to come under fire early on with the crowd cheering loudly in support of the Mexican side. Howard has made tons of brilliant saves worthy of a highlight reel, and has delivered on big stages in the past. Regardless of how the US fares in their friendly with Mexico, the 33-year-old Howard will make his presence felt. 

Landon Donovan

No player in United States Men's National Team history has scored more goals or assisted on more goals than Landon Donovan. The 30-year-old forward has been playing on the US men's senior squad since he was a teenager, and he will be looked upon to lead the Americans in hostile territory on Wednesday.

Donovan's experience in World Cup matches and other big-time showdowns has prepared him for friendlies like this summer's against Mexico, but if the United States is going to beat the Mexicans for the first time south of the border, they will need Donovan to add to his 49 career goal count for the United States. That shouldn't be too tall a task for one of the world's best though.

Herculez Gomez

Gomez has scored four goals for the United States since 2007 and is a great option for Jurgen Klinsmann up front. The 30-year-old forward has gained invaluable national team experience over the years and at some point it has to pay off. 

Gomez has seven goals for Santos Laguna since 2011 and can provide a lift if brought in off the bench late in the matchup. Gomez can take advantage of a tired defense in the second half if brought on then, and perhaps lead the US to their first win in Mexico City.

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