Good news for the US Men's Nation Soccer Team: On the heels of their game against Belgium in the World Cup Knockout Round, the US has learned they will likely have striker Jozy Altidore available in this do-or-die contest:
BREAKING: #USA striker Jozy Altidore is FIT to play for the #USMNT in tomorrow's match vs. #BEL! (via @ussoccer) pic.twitter.com/i2HieGEALC
— XFINITY Sports (@XFINITYSports) June 30, 2014
U.S. head coach Jurgen Klinsmann told reporters on Friday that he's optimistic about Altidore's chances of being available.
"We are very optimistic," Klinsmann said. "Every day is a big step forward. It’s 11 days now, and it’s looking better every day. So we are optimistic to have him be part of the Belgium game."
Altidore hasn't played since straining his left hamstring in the opener against Ghana on June 16. He joined teammates Saturday to jog around the fields at the Sao Paulo Futebol Clube training complex.
If Altidore is able to return, he could provide a big boost for a U.S. offense that was held to just four total shots and no goals against Germany in their last game. The U.S. will square off against Belgium at 4 p.m. on Tuesday and must win to advance to the next round.