NBC on Yahoo SportsJurgen Klinsmann: 'We need to prove ourselves right now'
SOCCERLY.COM: Jurgen Klinsmann faces his biggest game as the head coach of the U.S. Men's National Team in Tuesday's knockout round matchup against Belgium.
The German-born manager knows the importance of this encounter but also what it means for the future of U.S. soccer. What a win would mean for U.S. Soccer
"We’re not thinking at all about the future right now," Klinsmann said. "We’re thinking purely about the present and we want to go far. We know it’s difficult. This is the hurdle you want to take.
"What comes after the World Cup, we’ll have time to discuss that and looking forward, obviously, you’re always looking at the next generation coming through, but right now it’s all about Brazil."
The former German national was part of the team that won the 1990 World Cup. He understands what sacrifices his players need to make.
"This is what these guys want to prove and especially as we said the other day, the more experienced players, like Clint, Tim Howard, DaMarcus Beasley, Jermaine Jones, this is the moment," he said. "You have to embrace that moment and just squeeze everything out of yourself."
As Germany's head coach at the 2006 World Cup, he led them to a third place finish. The unexpected placement set the tone for their renewed place as a global soccer power. With a positive outcome against Belgium, it could expand and energize a national soccer awakening in Klinsmann's adopted home.
