The U.S. soccer team makes its World Cup debut later today in Germany. After making to the quarterfinal round four years ago the American squad begins this World Cup ranked fifth in the world.

Drake soccer coach Sean Holmes says the draw was unkind for the U.S. as they open today against the second ranked Czech Republic and must try to make it out of a group that also includes Italy. Holmes says the U.S. has a chance to win the opening game if they play well.

Holmes says the U.S. has emerged as a soccer power. He says it was an upset a few years ago when the Americans beat Britain, but Holmes says the U.S. team has become more competitive.