The Ghana win over the Czechs means that the US doesn't need a win, necessarily. That's good. Personally, even though Italians aren't exactly the Brazilians (who are expected by their country to not only win but win beautifully), they will still have some pressure on them not to try and draw the US. I think the Italian media and fans will freak out if the Italians decide to play for a tie against the US.

So, I wouldn't expect Italy to just lay back, as they potentially could. They have more pressure on them to win than the US does.