Five Things For Denmark

Source: ussoccerplayers.com

1. Another Revamp: A lot is being asked of the squad in camp, needing a quick reshuffle and integration of players from Slovakia to Denmark.  Clint Dempsey and Steve Cherundolo started against Slovakia but won't be available against Denmark.  Cherundolo's absence in particular means reshuffling the defense.  That could be asking a lot from Brad Guzan, who will spend another 90 minutes marshaling a makeshift defense.

2. A New Face: Edgar Castillo could get his first minutes in a United States jersey, adding another defensive choice.  Castillo normally plays left back, a slot that has been occupied by US captain Carlos Bocanegra since the Summer.  Up to that point, Bocanegra was normally played as a center back with the National Team, though his regular club position is left back.  Bocanegra was at center alongside Jonathan Spector for Saturday's game.  Putting Castillo into the lineup should keep Bocanegra at center against Denmark.

3. Production: The United States finished with eight total shots with four on frame against Slovakia.  They dominated corners five to one and controlled the ball for large stretches, but there was a lack of sustained pressure.  Getting players into positions for multiple looks and rebounds was an issue, and something that needs to be addressed quickly.

4. Second-Half: In the first-half, the United States gave every indication that they were figuring out Slovakia and would be a force in the second 45.  Instead, the second-half ended with lots of possession, but a severe lack of shots on goal.  Without Clint Dempsey creating from midfield from the Slovakia lineup, the US once again needs to regroup around its midfield.  After a long trip from Friday's playoff exit in LA, a lot might be expected from Houston Dynamo midfielders Ricardo Clark and Stuart Holden.  Clark especially has already shown that he can free up a game by shooting from distance.

5. Restarts: Against Slovakia, the US demonstrated the downside to having most of your restarts taken by the same player.  Sometimes, he won't be there.  Without Landon Donovan, the US simply wasn't enough of a threat from dead ball situations.  With half of the regular eleven unavailable, the US could try simple moves against an equally out of sorts Denmark.  With both teams modifying their lineups, the US could turn that into an advantage.