As the United States men's national team open the final round of regional qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup at home against Mexico in February, the draw for next year's Confederation Cup was announced.
The United States will get an early test in advance of the 2010 World Cup after drawing '06 World Cup champions Italy, Copa America winners Brazil and six-time African champions Egypt in Group B of the 2009 Confederations Cup, which runs June 14-28.
United States head coach Bob Bradley however appeared unfazed about the challenge he'll face in South Africa. Bradley believes the experience in itself will benefit his country immensely.
"The main expectation is just the opportunity to one, play here in South Africa, and two, to test ourselves against some top teams," Bradley told PA Sport.
"We set a goal of winning the Gold Cup in 2007 knowing that would give us the opportunity to be in the Confederations Cup. So we're excited about the competition and look forward to the opportunity to play against some great teams."
In 1999, the Americans reached the semifinals of the Confederations Cup when they defeated New Zealand and Germany in group play before dropping their semifinal game to hosts Mexico. The Americans' neighbor to the south would go on to win the FIFA tournament by beating Brazil.
The United States have claimed third place finishes in the 1992 and 1999 Confederations Cup.
