The US should not play for a draw. They need to prove that they are ready to take the next step in becoming a force in world football and beating the Germans would go a long way in that direction.
United States loses to Germany 1-0, but advances to World Cup knockout stage
Americans take second place in Group G ahead of Portugal due to goal differential tiebreaker. USA will face winner from Group H in next game. Ref. USAToday
You got that one right, people from other countries doesn't seem to realize on how capable the US team can be. They were close on going to the next round in Group 8 back then until Belgium came in the way.
As of today 17 July, 2014, FIFA ranks the USA Football team as Rank 15 (-2) in the FIFA World Ranking.