US may miss World Cup for first time since 1986

ORLANDO, Oct 5 (AP): Months and months of stumbles have put the United States in a precarious position. The Americans could miss the World Cup for the first time since 1986.

Preparing for Friday's crucial qualifier against Panama, the US held a closed-doors scrimmage Wednesday against Orlando City's B team. A victory Friday would put the US on track to reach its eighth straight World Cup with a win or possibly a tie at Trinidad and Tobago next week. Less than a victory against the Panamanians could lead to either a playoff next month or elimination.

"There's been a real sense of urgency," captain Michael Bradley said. "Obviously you get to the end and our margin for error is virtually gone."