They scored right away with Clint Dempsey delivering a beautiful goal in the first 29 seconds, and then spent most of the match hanging on for dear life. In a way the early goal put them in a tough spot, as they seemed to forget how to pass the ball crisply and control possession.
Most of the game was a mess, and when Ghana equalized late, it looked like utter disaster. But then John Brooks saved them with an amazing header off a corner kick late, and jubilation set in. I suppose the three young ladies pictured below are partying like crazy tonight.
The World Cup is finally here, and Jurgen Klinsmann doesn’t think Team USA can actually win the tournament. But he’s playing the long game, trying to set up Team USA for long-term success.
As you gear up for the tournament, you should check out this in-depth profile of Klinsmann and his approach. With the release of Landon Donovan, Klinsmann has shown that he’s not afraid to take responsibility for his approach, and he’ll take quite a bit of heat if Team USA falls flat in Brazil.
But Klinsmann wanted the most dedicated and fit players, and Donovan didn’t fit that mold. Many have disagreed with the decision, and when you see teams like Italy relying on aging but crafty veterans like Pirlo you have to question this decision.
But Klinsmann has a plan. Now we’ll see how it works.
Here’s an interview with Landon Donovan from August 2012 where he discusses Team USA, Jurgen Klinsmann and the 2014 World Cup. It’s interesting hearing his take on the aggressive he expected from Klinsmann and how this preceded the winning streak that led the United States to the 2014 World Cup.
Donovan is a class act, but more importantly he’s the kind of player that can help Team USA do some damage on the world stage.
Soccer is booming in towns like Seattle, and Seattle was rockin’ the other night when Team USA defeated Panama to basically ensure a trip to the 2014 World Cup. This article captures the frenzy that existed in Seattle for the game.
