Clint Dempsey stepped up in Landon Donovan's absence, as the U.S. Men's National Team held off Italy in an International Friendly at Luigi Ferraris Stadium in Genoa on Wednesday, 1-0.

The Fulham star scored in the 55th minute with a right-footed blast off the assist from Jozy Altidore for the lone goal of the match. The U.S. managed just one shot on goal in the first half. and Dempsey's score was the only other shot on target.

The Yanks took four total shots in the game, while Italy took 19, with seven on goal. Italy also maintained possession for 61 percent of the match.

While Italy dominated statistically, the U.S. executed their passes well, and did a solid job of finding their way into Italy's penalty box for goal-scoring opportunities.

The victory marks perhaps the best result for Juergen Klinsmann as head coach of the U.S. team. Many experts have been quick to point out that Klinsmann needs more time to find the right players as the U.S. begins to prepare for qualification for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Both squads were missing some of their top players. Donovan was not part of the 18-man roster due to illness, while Italy was without Antonio Cassano and Giuseppe Rossi, who hope to be fit for Euro 2012, while Manchester City forward Mario Balotelli was not included on the squad for disciplinary reasons.

Here's a look at Dempsey's goal:

Italy 0 - 1 USA | 59' Dempsey by Sport-Football