2011 Gold Cup: United States vs. Canada Preview, Group C

On Saturday, the United States was murdered by Spain in a friendly, 4-0.

While the loss means nothing, the margin of the loss is something to be concerned about. Head coach Bob Bradley learned absolutely nothing about his team, even though a majority of the stars weren't playing and the second unit was in.

I'm sure Bradley wasn't expecting a victory or even a draw against the 2010 World Cup winners, but the only positive that the coach could look forward to after the game was the paycheck.

This certainly will be a lesson learned for the budding stars and veterans, and a better performance against Canada will definitely need to occur.

Now Canada shouldn't pose a threat to the US, but if any players are to the beat the Yanks, it will be Josh Simpson and Dwayne De Rosario.

If Canada's head coach, Stephen Hart, decides to use the 4-4-1-1 formation like he did against Ecuador, look for Simeon Jackson to also pose a threat as a lone striker, especially if the US plays defense like they did against Spain.

However, I don't think the Americans will have any trouble against Canada.

Landon Donovan, who was out against Spain due to sickness, will be back in the starting lineup and will be the glue to the US midfield. Also, look for Juan Agudelo to be paired with Jozy Altidore again to provide the scoring up front.  

The big question mark has to be the defenders.

Oguchi Onyewu was horrid against Spain and should be removed from the starting lineup. Look for the captain, Carlos Bocanegra, to return and bulk up the back four. As long as the defenders play better than they did against Spain, goalkeeper Tim Howard shouldn't have to be constantly yelling down their throats.

Canada will test the US, but ultimately, not have enough fire power to contend. My final score prediction: United States 3, Canada 1.

The goals for the US will come from Donovan, Clint Dempsey and Jozy Altidore, while Canada's lone goal will be from Simpson.

Follow James Sargent on Twitter @Sargentsorders