The Road to Germany Resumes

After ending 2004 with only one defeat in 15 matches, the US Men's National Team begins the final round of World Cup qualifying today at Trinidad & Tobago. History is on the side of the US, who have only one loss in 14 meetings with the Soca Warriors, and are 6-0-2 against them in WC qualifying. Port of Spain was the site of one of the most historic moments in US soccer history, the 1989 1-0 victory that earned the US its first World Cup berth in 40 years. Paul Caligiuri scored the match winner on what has come to be known as the "shot heard 'round the world". The USA has gone to every World Cup since.

What: USA v. Trinidad & Tobago
Where: Port of Spain, Trinidad
When: Wednesday, 2:30 PM EST
TV: ESPN2

Detailed Previews:

US Soccer

Soca Warriors.net

ESPN Soccernet

Prediction: This will be an extremely tough test, as the US team has had less time than expected to prepare due to a labor dispute. T & T are a talented side, and will enjoy the support of a raucous home crowd. If ever history is to change, this will be the day. Still, in 2004 the US showed a distinct knack for playing ugly yet still managing to pull out a result. I suspect this will happen again.

Trinidad & Tobago 1, USA 1