United States Soccer Escapes Group of Death
By Matthew Laux
For all United States of America fans, it’s time for a sigh of relief: The men’s soccer team has advanced to the knockout stage for the second consecutive time. The USA escaped the group of death after a tough 1-0 defeat at the hands of Germany. Germany came out of the gates firing on all cylinders as a series of tic-tact-toe passing provided Germany with excellent chances. At about the mid-way point of the half, the Americans settled in and began finding their groove on the pitch. Still, both teams were unable to break through and the score remained knotted at zero. If America hoped to advance they would need some help and Portugal was willing to oblige, seizing a 1-0 lead heading into the final half.
How quickly things can change, when in the 62nd minute, Tomas Muller put home a rebound breaking the tie in favor of the Germans. Almost simultaneously, Ghana responded with a goal of their own to tie Portugal. This meant, if Ghana was able to win they would prevent the US from advancing. On came the defense for the United States to stalemate the game at 1-0 and joining in the fun was star Christiano Ronaldo, who buried a shot to almost guarantee the United States spot in the round of 16. Both scores held up and head coach Jurgen Klinsmann took a major gasp for air knowing his team will live another day.
What this means is that United States will now play next Tuesday against the group H winner. The heavy favorite is Belgium, who has 6 points and easily dispatched Team USA in a friendly last summer. Nonetheless, Team USA will have a bit more time to rest and recover prior to the match on top of potentially having Jozy Altidore return to the pitch. Down and almost out, the United States showed great resilience in the group and will be a tough out no matter who they face in the knockout stage.