PRE-GAME COVERAGE CONTINUES

Don't miss the pre-game warmups, which will be streamed live beginning at approx. 7:30 p.m. CT!

THE COUNTDOWN STARTS...

Press conference. Check. Numbers pressed onto new jerseys. Check. Training in the stadium. Check. Yup, looks like we're all set for Wednesday's U.S.A. vs. Mexico match. The game looks to be headed for a sellout and if 2003 is anything to go by, it is going to be LOUD. We’re spending the day getting ready, so we’ll leave you with some links to stuff you may enjoy over the course of the day (though be sure to check back here before the game as we may have a pretty important scoop for you).

Podcast: Oguchi Onyewu, Drew Moor, Michael Bradley and Clint Dempsey after training on Tuesday.

Podcast: Landon Donovan on USA/Mexico

Article: The Facts of a Rivalry: USA – MEX

Game Notes

STUDIO 90 IS BACK!

The prayers of untold thousands have been answered! (C'mon, it's USA-Mexico. Everything gets hyped!) Studio 90 is back with a brand new edition to prime you for tonight's Clasico at Reliant Stadium. You can look forward a review of the rivarly, a day in the life of Clint Dempsey as he travels thousands of miles just 48 hours before kickoff, a sit-down with Jozy Altidore, and a ussoccer.com exclusive interview with one of the most reclusive figures in U.S. Soccer. It's the quality you've come to know and love from the Studio 90 crew, so stay at your desks a little longer today to catch the latest episode around 4 p.m CT on ussoccer.com

VIEWING PARTIES

Fans looking for a place to watch the U.S. take on Mexico should head to one of U.S. Soccer's Official Viewing parties being hosted by the Official U.S. Soccer Bars. In Chicago, fans should meet at The Globe, winner of U.S. Soccer's Best Soccer Bar in 2007. Fans will also be sure to fill up perennial U.S. Soccer Best Soccer Bar contenders Nevada Smiths in New York and Summers Restaurant in Washington, D.C.

This match marks the kick off of U.S. Soccer's Official Bar program which will provide fans with a listing of the top U.S. Soccer Bars in the country. To become an Official U.S. Soccer Bar, email us at soccerbar@ussoccer.org.

U.S. PRESS CONFERENCE LIVE ON USSOCCER.COM TODAY AT 5 P.M. ET

ussoccer.com’s MatchACCESS will provide live streaming of the USA’s pre-match press conference with head coach Bob Bradley and goalkeeper Tim Howard. The press conference will be the final media availability for Bradley and Howard before Wednesday’s match, and will begin at approximately 5 p.m. ET (4 p.m. CT).

PODCAST FROM YESTERDAY'S TRAINING

After yesterday's training session, Eddie Robinson, Ricardo Clark, and Bob Bradley spoke to the Houston media, who were pretty eager to get some of their questions in. Eddie and Ricardo talked about how exciting it was to be playing in their hometown, while Bob spoke about the rivalry with Mexico and the upcoming game.


Listen to the full podcast here.

AN INTERVIEW WITH THE (NOT) INJURED EDDIE LEWIS

MNT Blogger: Eddie, can you describe how you injured the cartilage in your knee?

Eddie Lewis: "I didn't. You're the 100th person who asked that question."

MNT Blogger: The reports from Derby indicate the surgery went well. What is the prognosis for the duration of your recovery?

Eddie Lewis: "What recovery?

MNT Blogger: Is it disappointing to travel all this way and have to sit out training and watch the team get ready for the big match against Mexico?

Eddie Lewis: "Yeah, I didn't sit out. The team had a great session today and we're looking forward to Wednesday.

MNT Blogger: You've been a part of some of the great moments in U.S.-Mexico history, particularly the cross to Donovan for the goal in the 2002 World Cup. Is it hard sitting here knowing that you won't be able to suit up Wednesday night?

Eddie Lewis: "It's hard listening to these questions. You really ought to spend less time on the computer."

MNT Blogger: Well, good luck then Eddie. Here's to a speedy recovery!

The preceding dramatization has been published to demonstrate once and for all that Eddie IS NOT HURT!!! How many times do we have to tell you not to believe everything you read?

Except our stuff, of course ...

WELCOME HOME LADS

It was a surprising scene at Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport this afternoon. While awaiting the arrival of Clint Dempsey and Carlos Bocanegra, we crossed paths with a strong contingent of Mexico fans. We can only guess that they were awaiting the arrival of their own European-based players to emerge from Customs. In the meantime, the boys' flight from London's Gatwick Airport had arrived a few minutes late, but we were hoping that our U.S. players would breeze right through the checkpoints. Suddenly, people started pouring out of the "restricted area". Would this be their flight from London or Mexico City?

A few subtle hints later, we knew we wouldn't be waiting much longer. First, we saw a man who might have made a good living as a Paul McCartney look-a-like. Then two businessmen came through the portals and ran straight for the currency exchange. Next, two guys started yelling into their cellphones with British accents so thick we couldn't even comprehend what they were saying. Sure enough, Carlos and Clint strolled out shortly thereafter. They didn't get spotted (thankfully), and while the Mexican fans continued their vigil we headed back to the hotel to meet the team for dinner.

NOTES FROM THE TRAINING ROOM

With all the arrivals complete, the training room is in full swing. Tonight that meant a sampling of Deal or No Deal, in which a contestant made a deal -much derided by those in the room - for close to $300,000.

Next up was a playlist of some classic YouTube videos including Camp Referee, Thriller Wedding Dance and Robot Dance.

Unfortunately our internet connection was in appalling form, and we had to wait a good 10-15 minutes between videos. The time was passed by passing around the new 2008 U.S. Men's National Team Media Guide, as yet unseen by many of the European guys. Of particular note, as pointed out by Carlos and Tim, was Benny’s facial hair, which he claimed was drawn on him in the editing room.

Finally, we wound down the night with some Mythbusters in which the hosts tried to figure out how a person could survive a fall off a sixty-foot building. Perhaps next week they’ll debunk the mystery of the media guide goatee.

COMING TO A TV/RADIO NEAR YOU

Several of the players are sitting down with ESPN this afternoon to tape pre-game interviews, kicking off the two-day schedule of press conferences, mixed zones and radio appearances. For those of you in Houston, head over to Stags Head Pub for the USA-Mexico pre-game party Monday night from 7-9 pm where Glenn Davis will host a live radio broadcast on 790 The Sports Animal. He'll be talking to Bob Bradley sometime during the 8 p.m. hour if you want to tune in.

Also on the schedule is a live talkback with Clint Dempsey on the ESPNews HotList on Tuesday afternoon between 5 and 5:30 p.m ET ('talkback' is an industry term for an interview where the guest isn't in-studio with the host. See, the blog is both fun and educational!) Of course we will have the cameras and podcasters recording throughout to bring you the highlights.

MORE HELPING HANDS

U.S head coach Bob Bradley has bolstered his staff with three new editions in 2008. On the technical side, former Egyptian national team goalkeeper Zak Abdel will train the goalkeepers, the former Chivas USA goalkeeper coach having previously assisted Sigi Schmid with the U.S. U-20 MNT that participated in the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship in Holland. Additionally, Pierre Barrieu has rejoined the national team staff after a year with the New York Red Bulls. Barrieu served as the Strength and Conditioning Coach for the national team for a four-year span that included two World Cups. On the medical side, Bradley has appointed Ivan Pierra to be the Head Athletic Trainer for the Men’s National Team. Pierra has assisted the national team programs since 1993, and had served as the ATC for the Los Angeles Galaxy from the inception of the club in 1996.

GUARDADO GONE FOR MEXICO

Deportivo de La Coruña midfielder Andrés Guardado suffered a muscle injury this past weekend in his side's 1-0 win away to Betis, forcing his exclusion from Wednesday's match. He has been replaced by U-23 midfielder Cesar Villaluz. Guardado ended Mexico's eight-year goalless drought against the U.S. during last year's Gold Cup final, only to see the lead disappear following the finishes by Landon Donovan and Benny Feilhaber.

Much like for last year's match in Glendale, Ariz., Hugo Sanchez has called on a nearly full-strength side for the friendly against the United States. Causing a stir amongst the Mexican press is the inclusion of Antonio Naelson Zinha, a naturalized Mexican citizen. Sanchez was harshly critical of his predecessor for choosing to use non-native born players to represent Mexico. The Mexican players will be arriving into Houston during the next two days.

GOALKEEPERS: Luís Ernesto Michel (Chivas de Guadalajara), Moisés Muñoz (Morelia), Guillermo Ochoa (Club América)

DEFENDERS: Israel Castro (Pumas UNAM), Rafael Márquez (FC Barcelona), Johnny Magallón (Chivas de Guadalajara), Fausto Pinto (Pachuca), Oscar Rojas (Club América), Carlos Salcido (PSV Eindhoven)

MIDFIELDERS: Francisco Arce (Santos Laguna), Pavel Pardo (VFB Stuttgart), Gerardo Torrado (Cruz Azul), Antonio Naelson Zinha (Toluca), Cesar Villaluz (Cruz Azul)

FORWARDS: Adolfo Bautista (Jaguares Chiapas), Juan Carlos Cacho (Pachuca), Giovani Dos Santos (FC Barcelona), Antonio de Nigris (Ankaraspor), Carlos Vela (Osasuna)

TRIVIA TIME, BECAUSE WE JUST CAN'T LET GO

Some of you may have noticed - particularly Amy - that the MNT Blog has been devoid of trivia questions for quite some time. We engaged in lengthy debate on the topic, eventually coming to the conclusion that in the age of Google the time of online trivia has passed. But old habits do not go gentle into that good night, and we at least found a question we thought intriguing if not a challenge to the U.S. Soccer sleuths out there. So in the spirit of nostalgia, here goes:

There are two pairs of players on the roster who earned their first cap in the same game together. If that wasn't clear - as it wasn't to several of the players we questioned - that means two guys in one game, two in another. Names and games, please ...

HOUSTON, WE HAVE ARRIVAL

The domestic-based group left the hotel in Los Angeles at 9 a.m. this morning and touched down into Houston just after 4 p.m. local time, making a beeline to the hotel in hopes of catching the kickoff of Super Bowl XLII (they didn't). It's the second year in a row the team has reached the venue city on Super Bowl Sunday in advance of a Mexico game, so let's hope history repeats itself. Tim Howard, Bobby Convey, Eddie Lewis and Benny Feilhaber pulled up to the hotel midway through the first quarter, while Michael Bradley and Freddy Adu are the last of the Euros scheduled to arrive tonight. TV's have been conveniently placed in the meal room so the guys won't miss the action during dinner. Speaking of, it's chow time.

BRADLEY CALLS IN THE DOUBLE DEUCE

It's official. Bob Bradley has named the 22-man roster that will head to Houston to get ready for the Mexico match. Most of the players will arrive throughout Sunday, with a few European-based players with league matches on Sunday set to come the next day.

The players from the camp in Carson who are not going to Houston began departing last night, which made today's training session a fun-filled competition of soccer tennis and 5 v. 2. We'll try to get some clips up once we're done packing for the trip.

But enough of the little details. We now know who is going to be facing off against Mexico. What do you think?

To get things started, Steve Cherundolo had been scheduled to come to Houston until he suffered a groin injury in Hannover's 1-1 draw away to Hamburg earlier today.

ROSTER COMING

Headed to the Mooch Myernick Field for the last training session of the California leg of the camp. There's been 22 days of blood, sweat and tears at the HDC during the last month, and now it's on to Houston for the showdown with Mexico. Special thanks to Jen Atler and all of the U.S. Soccer Federation staff based in Carson who have done their typically superior job of looking after the national team. (And just for the record, gang. The current temperature in Carson is 64 degrees. In Chicago, it's 25 degrees with 40% chance of snow. Have a nice day!)

Tune in to ussoccer.com later this afternoon to find out who has been selected by U.S. head coach Bob Bradley to gather in Houston.

(any last-minute predictions?)

TWELLMAN TWEAKED

A solid three weeks of national team training for Taylor Twellman has come to an end, the striker picking up a groin strain during Thursday's morning session. An MRI examination revealed no significant trauma, and team trainers expect Twellman to be fully recovered in 2-3 weeks. He will return to New England later this evening.

PODCAST DOUBLE DOSE!

Just finished with training today, a session which was short and sweet. The guys went from warm-ups straight into playing 7 v.7. In the first version, they played on small goals with two goals to aim at for each team. After 15 minutes they brought in the goalies and the big nets.

Meantime back in the hotel, the MNT Blog has set about putting up some podcasts on the website:

The first one is with Landon Donovan, who spoke to media earlier this week about the upcoming game against Mexico and the winding down of this January camp. Podcast can be heard here.

The second podcast is with Bob Bradley, who also talked with reporters about next week’s big game. Listen to that whole podcast here.

RICARDO RESPONDS

Thanks to everyone that wrote in with questions for Ricardo. Here's what he had to say.


Matt said: What do you do outside of soccer?

Ricardo: “I take care of my family, spending time with my wife and son. I like to coach soccer. Right now I’m coaching at the local Boys & Girls Club in Houston.”

scottyb10 said: Ricardo, what exactly happened with the situation with Carlos. Was it a frustration thing or did he say something that pushed you?

Ricardo: “It was frustrating because Carlos is the type of guy that can get under you skin during the game. He had been coming at me all game, and on that particular play I retaliated. I don’t regret standing up for myself, but I do regret the way in which I reacted. I should have reacted in a more professional manner. The worst part is that taking those actions hurts your team. I have learned from it and put it all behind me. I’m anxious to get back on the field for Houston.”

Jonathan said: Rico, can you elaborate on the defensive vs. offensive responsibilities you have for the U.S. team? I'm particularly curious about how you strike the balance between getting forward and supporting the attack and also supporting the back line of defense. Do different CM's have different roles on the U.S. team? Looking forward to seeing you help us beat Mexico in Houston.

Ricardo: “I think with the national team that both central midfielders have pretty much the same role. When we play with two, both have to be on the same page, keeping their defensive shape so there is balance when one is in more of an attacking position. You have to be aware during the games so you can positioning syncs with the other 10 players on the field.”

Terrence said: This question pertains to the future, so it can be asked Feb. 6, 2008, after the game. How does it feel to beat Mexico again?

Ricardo: “Let’s hope there is another win! The USA-Mexico rivalry is a big one, and there is a lot at stake no matter what the game. When we play them, more times than not it is a pro-Mexican crowd, so you have to learn how to deal with that. I don’t let that bother me. The atmosphere in general adds to the intensity of the game. It would be great to play in front of the Houston fans as well.”

BobWeir said: Which league would you most like to play in if you were to leave the MLS this transfer window? After winning back-to-back titles have you given more thought to when you would prefer moving to another league?

Ricardo: “I have two more years left on my contract, and I am happy with my situation the Dynamo. Looking down the road, if I had the option to choose which league, I would say the English Premier League because I like the style of play there.”

Brice said: Where is your favorite place to eat in Houston?

Ricardo: “That’s a good question. We really like this Indian restaurant called Moksha. They have great Roti and Naan. I like spicy food.”

Gabe said: What CD do you have in the player right now?

Ricardo: “Ear Drum by Talib Kweli. His lyrics are tight.”

Who is your favorite teammate you have ever played with, for club or country, and why?

Ricardo: “I’ll say Dwayne DeRosario. He is the best player never to win the MLS MVP award. He is very talented, and he is my partner in the midfield.”

Rosie said: What is your favorite food?

Ricardo: “Roti and Curry Chicken.”

What are your favorite soccer teams? Leagues?

Ricardo: “Right now it is Arsenal. I like their style of play because they move the ball really well.”

cnelson said: Ricardo, it's nice to see you taking those long range shots. I don't see enough of that from the U.S., except maybe Convey and Heath Pearce when they play. That goal you got in the Copa, I think was around the 18, and it was pretty sweet. How'd that feel?

Ricardo: “It was unbelievable because it was my first goal with the national team and it tied the game. Unfortunately we wound up losing, but I am still thankful that I was able to get my first goal. Shooting from distance is something that I have been working on in the off season. Playing in my position, you only get so many chances around goal, so you have to take advantage of them. I think any opportunity you get to shoot, you should. You don’t shoot, you don’t score goals.”

Shannon said: Hey, I’m a senior at Steele High and I believe in March that the Dynamo are supposed to play a game at my high school along w/ D.C., Chivas, and Toronto. Will you be with the team, and will any other player at the camp right now? Really hope you are!

Ricardo: “I should be there, along with Eddie Robinson and Brad Davis. So make sure you wave! We’re looking forward to starting the year and defending our back-to-back titles. There have been a few changes in the off season, but the core of the team is still there and we are confident we can challenge for our third straight championship.”

HAND BALL!

(It does not mean what you think it means.)





For a change of pace, the team warmed up to start tonight's session with a little game of handball. Refereed by Pierre Barrieu, who left the New York Red Bulls to rejoin the national team staff, the rules of the game are simple: Pass with your hands, score with your head. You only get three steps, and if you're tagged (two-hand touch) it is a turnover. Sure it's just for fun, but if you think these guys aren't competitive in everything they do, take a look.