The US advanced to the knockout round despite being shut out against Germany last week, and they are hoping their offense will receive a much-needed boost from the return of Jozy Altidore. On Monday, US Soccer announced that Altidore will be “ready and available” for Tuesday’s match against Belgium.
Altidore went down with a hamstring injury in the first half of the US’s opening game of the World Cup against Ghana. He grabbed the back of his leg and dropped to the turf before having to be helped off the field. He was later diagnosed with a hamstring strain.
The US had plenty of offense working against Portugal, but they appeared too conservative at times against Germany. Granted, Jurgen Klinsmann knew the situation and knew it was crucial to avoid losing to Germany by a large margin. Against Belgium, the US may have to take more chances offensively and on counter-attacks. Altidore, if he plays significant time, should give them the opportunity to do that.
To this point in the tournament, Klinsmann has done a tremendous job of substituting and managing his team. Altidore will give him one more piece to work with.
