The U.S. men’s national team faces a virtual must-win situation on Wednesday when it takes on Algeria (10 a.m. ET), and while a draw could be enough to help the Americans advance, a victory removes all doubt.

There will be plenty of variables that could decide the game, but Ives Galarcep lists five keys to a U.S. victory in Wednesday’s Group C showdown.

U.S. striker Altidore (pictured) was a beast against Slovenia, punishing the Europeans with his size and strength. Algeria doesn’t have many defenders with the strength to deal with him, but Bougherra could get the assignment. Bougherra has had a penchant for pushing forward into the Algerian attack quite a bit, but he won’t have that luxury with Altidore around.

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The Americans haven’t really faced a midfielder in this tournament who combines speed and skill the way Ziani (pictured) does. His ability to float to the flanks, as well as pick out teammates with sharp passes, makes him a top priority for the American defense to stop. Whether it is Maurice Edu or Ricardo Clark, a defensive midfielder will need to try and keep tabs on him, as will Michael Bradley, and even Steve Cherundolo.

After playing so well in the opening match against England, Onyewu (pictured, left) struggled against Slovenia. With a speedy Algerian attack up next, he must rebound because the U.S. defense will have a hard time holding off Algeria’s offense without him at his best. Algeria boasts some speedy forwards who could punish Onyewu if he isn’t at 100 percent.

Cherundolo (pictured, left) has enjoyed one of the best tournaments on the United States, but he will be facing a tough test from Belhadj, whose speed on the left flank will be one of the keys to Algeria’s attack. Cherundolo will need the U.S. team’s right winger, be it Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey or even Stuart Holden, to keep the pressure on Belhadj.

With Robbie Findley suspended, a new starter will be called on to step in. Can Edson Buddle or Stuart Holden make the most of an opportunity? Buddle showed before the World Cup that he can score if given the opportunity. If Dempsey is moved up top, Holden could be called on to provide a dynamic option on the right flank. His work rate could also help neutralize Belhadj.