Ten first round games, but only one matters to us

Jeff Carlisle lists his top 10 first round World Cup.

For me, the best have to be the sibling rivalries. US v England, Portugal v Brazil.

While it is true that England doesn't see the US as a sporting rival -- Australia much more so, because of cricket and rugby -- they know it is possible to lose. Some regard the US victory over England in the 1950 World Cup one of the biggest upsets of all time, if not the biggest ever. And then we beat a B team in 93 as well, if I recall correctly.

Landon Donovan just completed a 10 week loan to Everton over in Liverpool, and he was well regarded. In some ways, I think he liked it because the Everton fans appreciated him in ways that Americans fail to. While American national team fans -- whether of the most dedicated variety or watch the qualifiers only -- have constantly criticized his play. The Evertonians loved his work rate, the way he used his speed to stretch the defense, and the way he did small things to help the team win. Americans, somewhat because we're less knowledgable, often fail to admire those traits.

It will be a huge test. If the US can somehow draw, we will put ourselves in good position to advance.