The U.S Men's National Soccer Team takes on Mexico Saturday in Columbus, Ohio, with a berth in the World Cup up for grabs. The U.S. men are hoping the home field advantage will help them secure a berth in next year's tournament in Germany.
The last time these two teams met in Columbus Ohio, was in February of 2001. In that game, played in frigid conditions, the U.S. beat Mexico 2-0. The cold weather and a pro-American crowd helped the U.S. team win what became known as La Guerra Fria - the cold war.
But it is warmer this time, with a game time temperature forecast around 18 degrees Celsius. Even so, U.S. Coach Bruce Arena says playing in Columbus will be a big boost to his team.
"We obviously look forward to the game," said Bruce Arena. "We love playing in Columbus. We anticipate a great crowd and one that is very supportive of the U.S. team. And I am confident we are going to field a strong team and play well."
History is on the U.S team's side. Mexico has not scored a goal and has not won a game on U.S. soil since 1999. A U.S. victory Saturday would lock up a berth in the 2006 World Cup in Germany.
