The U.S. soccer team beat Algeria 1-0 in the World Cup Finals Wednesday in yet another dramatic finish. Landon Donovan scored the game winning goal in the 91st minute and the U.S. finally showed that they can finish off an opponent. With the victory, the U.S. claimed first place in Group C of the World Cup Finals and advances to the knockout round.
The U.S. almost gave up another early goal when Algerian forward Rafik Djebbour hit the crossbar in the 6th minute. But the defense held and the U.S. fought through another tough game. Jozy Altidore posted another physical game, wearing down Algeria, pressuring them and drawing fouls.
The U.S. once again had what appeared to be a valid goal disallowed when Clint Dempsey scored on a pass from Hercules Gomez. But Dempsey was called offside on the play. Replays clearly show that Dempsey was not offside. Roy Lewis watched the game at Fox n Hound in east Wichita and was amazed at the call. "How is it that we're on the wrong side of so many bad calls?" asked Lewis. "It's really unbelievable."
See a photo coverage of the game below
The U.S. had plenty of chances, but failed to convert. As the game wore on in a scoreless tie, desperation grew for U.S. fans. With England winning their match against Slovenia, a win was becoming a necessity. But despite all the missed opportunities and even the disallowed goal, the U.S. continued to fight.
In stoppage time, a weak header shot by Algeria was grabbed quickly by U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard. He flung the ball forward quickly to Landon Donovan who raced upfield with the ball. Donovan passed forward to Altidore who was streaking up the right side while Clint Dempsey was charging towards the goal. Altidore crossed to the middle to Dempsey, but Algerian goalkeeper Rais M'Bolhi dove forward for the ball. Dempsey reached for the ball and got a foot on it, but M'Bolhi deflected the shot. Landon Donovan was trailing the play and tapped in an easy goal off the rebound. It is probably the most dramatic goal in U.S. soccer history. On that play, the U.S. went from being eliminated from the World Cup Finals to winning Group C and moving to the knockout round.
By winning Group C, the U.S. will face Ghana, the second place finisher in Group D. Group play is much different from playing in the knockout stage, so now it is time for the U.S. to step their mental game. Winners move on; lose and you're out. Are you exhausted yet?
The U.S. match against Ghana on Saturday will be shown on ABC at 1:30 pm central time.
Comments
Maybe there are a few more believers out there now? They may have had some sluggish starts but U.S. has yet to quit. I see us winning a few more games at least. Go USA!!!!
U.S.A. is playing like they won't give up. They should beat Ghana. Go USA!!!
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