There's usually a match in every World Cup qualifying round that proves to be the tipping point. Win, and it ends up being a catalyst toward qualification. Lose, and the campaign can head off into a ditch. It often happens late in a particular round, but it can take place earlier as well.
The U.S. would appear to be facing just such a scenario this Friday when it takes on Honduras at San Jose's Avaya Stadium. Granted, it's still early days in the final Hexagonal round of qualifying, but the Americans are currently in last place after dropping their first two matches and desperately need three points to climb back up the standings.