Kick Off: Can USA join Mexico in Copa quarterfinals? | DC United in news

Greg Seltzer

Here are the top soccer stories everyone’s talking about this morning:

It Comes Down To This

United States manager Jurgen Klinsmann has warned not to underestimate the "fearless" Paraguay side they must tackle in Saturday's all-important Group A capper to advance to the Copa America knockouts (7 pm ET on FS1, Univision, UDN). Though the game is in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania native Christian Pulisic reports that he's not nervous about the possibility of being called on to help the team score the necessary result. For those in town this weekend, we have a handy list of get-togethers, tailgates and viewing parties.

El Treat

Though they freely admitted it wasn't easy, Mexico secured a quarterfinal place by blanking Jamaica 2-0 on Thursday night.

Surprise Package

Elsewhere, early tournament darlings Venezuela clinched a place in the quarterfinals by edging Uruguay in Philadelphia. Though he was unable to appear in the game, Uruguay star Luis Suarez may not have realized it; he appeared to lash out at the manager for not being used as a sub with their tournament hopes circling the drain.

Copa Friday

Friday night's top Copa America tilt features Argentina battling Panama (9:30 pm ET on FOX, UDN, UniMás) for first place in Group D. In the early contest, holders Chile battle Bolivia (7 pm ET on FOX, UDN, UniMás) to see who can revive their advancement hopes.

Higher Yearning

Though the Philadelphia Union lead the Eastern Conference, they believe their performances can still reach a higher level.

Series Premiere

The Colorado Rapids have kicked off a video series that details Tim Howard's road back to MLS.

Open Training

The Seattle Sounders have returned from the international break to prepare for US Open Cup play and the focus is also on getting Panamanian international center back Roman Torres back in shape.

Wanted Men

Having reportedly rejected a loan move to Tigres, Club America's US defender Ventura Alvarado may soon head to MLS.

Fresh Catch?

According to Soccer Insider Steven Goff, D.C. United are working to sign US Under-17 skipper Chris Durkin.

Deep, Deep South

Grant Wahl reports that Atlanta United's rumored pursuit of Mexico star Andres Guardado is a real thing. Naturally, that sort of acquisition could really help the expansion club achieve their goal of wooing all the El Tri fans that live in the region.

Birn Notice

An Israeli report says rumored suitor Maccabi Tel Aviv are now in advanced talks over D.C. United defender Steve Birnbaum. Elsewhere, American midfielder Marco Vidal has made it back to Liga MX, joining Veracruz from San Luis.

What's New With Landon?

Landon Donovan will join the FS1 crew as a studio analyst for the US vs. Paraguay contest on Saturday. Meanhwile, ESPN is reporting that the former Galaxy superstar has become a Swansea City shareholder.