NATIONS - U.S. under pressure after slow start in World Cup qualifying

A 1-1 draw at home against Canada, which hasn't qualified for the World Cup since 1986, has raised concerns and increased pressure. Instead of a comeback under coach Gregg Berhalter, the Americans are sputtering heading into their third game in seven days against Honduras on Wednesday night. In Central America, the United States hasn't won a qualification since 2013, with one victory and three draws in its past eight matches.

“The hole is starting to grow a bit deeper,” said Marcelo Balboa, a former American defender who is now a Univision pundit. "It emphasizes the importance of the away game in Honduras, where we know the grass will be thick." It'll be sweltering. It'll be hot and humid. The people will weigh — the buzzing sound that will envelop the stadium for three hours coming up to the game.”