U.S. must punish opponents to ensure World Cup place

Published Sep. 3, 2009 6:56 p.m. ET

Jamie Trecker

Déjà vu? Nope.

The USA is really gearing up for another two-game stint against El Salvador and Trinidad & Tobago.

Back in late March, the USA struggled to a 2-2 draw against El Salvador at Cuscatlan, with Frankie Hejduk nicking a late point after a sloppy game. The Americans followed that up with a bludgeoning 3-0 win over the Soca Warrior islanders in Nashville.