U.S. Football Team Go Home

The U.S. are out of the 2006 World Cup after a decent effort against Ghana, especially in comparison to their first loss against the Czech Republic. A big mistake by the U.S. captain led to an easy first goal for Ghana and a bad call by the ref gave Ghana their second on a penalty kick. Hmmm . . . . combination of mistakes and bad calls by the officials. Sounds like a recent Super Bowl.

The one goal that the American side did score was beautiful, especially on the assist from Beasley. After that, the U.S. passed up a few great opportunities to score. McBride was the closest with a header that ricocheted off the post and Landon Donovan botched an opportunity on an ideal free kick position.

It’s been fun to watch the U.S. team and learn some names. I knew a lot more about European teams coming into this tournament. Maybe in South Africa, U.S. football will have figured out how to get a little farther on the world stage.

Now I’m looking forward to a rematch between England and Portugal, in light of the last Euro Cup. But first, the next round on Sunday: England have to get past Ecuador and Portugal must beat the Netherlands. I think England have a better chance against Portugal than they do against the Netherlands. (bracket)

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