The U.S. national team will face Italy in the World Cup today following a disastrous 3-0 loss in its first match against the Czech Republic.

Despite the drubbing, the U.S. still has hope of advancing to the second round of the tournament. However, while the logical scenarios show reason for hope, the team will have to raise its energy level and quality of play if it hopes to get the needed results.

Head coach Bruce Arena has hinted at lineup changes for the game and has singled out several players for criticism, including 2002 World Cup star DaMarcus Beasley, who has engaged in some back-and-forth with Arena in the media.

Another change expected by many analysts is the insertion of 22-year-old forward Eddie Johnson. Johnson, a haltime substitute against the Czech Republic, provided a spark, with several attempts on goal, something that was rare for his teammates.

Arena also dinged star Landon Donovan for a lack of aggressiveness, though his importance to the team means that he will most likely start the match.

Italy is considered one of the traditional soccer powers. It has won three World Cups (1934, 1938 and 1982) and reached the final in the U.S. in 1994, losing to Brazil in a shootout.

It won its World Cup opener 2-0 over Ghana.

The match starts at 3 p.m. Eastern time.

The U.S. will close group play against Ghana on June 22.