USA to be offensive against Belgium

US forward and captain Clint Dempsey (L) and Belgium's forward Eden Hazard. AFP
US forward and captain Clint Dempsey (L) and Belgium's forward Eden Hazard. AFP

US coach Jurgen Klinsmann says his team will take the attack to Belgium in their last-16 meeting Tuesday in Salvador.

Despite progressing from a challenging group, statistically the United States launched the second fewest attacks of any team but Klinsmann is adamant that will change against a Belgian side that could be without captain Vincent Kompany and fellow centre-back Thomas Vermaelen.

Marc Wilmots’ men, regarded as tournament dark horses, cruised through Group H without really clicking into gear but the coach was unconcerned by the lack of flair shown thus far.

“If you ask whether I’d rather put on a good show and go out at the first stage, or win games 1-0, I prefer to win 1-0,” Wilmots said.