USA! USA! USA!

The United States have advanced to the Round of 16 at the World Cup by defeating Algeria 1-0 on Wednesday. The United States went from elimination to winners of Group C in a matter of seconds.

Lets take a look at the events that took place to set up this moment:

In their first game of the World Cup, the United States battled England to a 1-1 tie in the most hyped game of the tournament. It took quite a bit of luck to come out of that game with a tie, but it was crucial in the build up for the match with Algeria.


In their second game, the USA gave up two early goals to fall behind Slovenia 2-0. However, they managed to make an exciting comeback in the second half. Then of course there was the controversial disallowed goal that would have given them the win. Again though, ending in a tie with Slovenia is what made the Algeria match up what it was.

The United States third match featured another controversial disallowed goal by the USA early in the game. When England went up on Slovenia 1-0 in the game being played simultaneously, the USA-Algeria game immediately ramped up in intensity. The US had to win in order to advance. They had so many chances that were missed that it eventually felt like it just wasn't meant to be. Don't forget that Tim Howard was incredible in goal for the United States and kept them in position to win by thwarting every attempt the Algerian's made to score.

It is hard to describe the emotions that were felt when Landon Donovan put the ball in the back of the net during stoppage time.

I think that this video sums it up best. My personal reaction caused me to run down the hall of my office to celebrate with a few of my co-workers. We were all nearly in tears as our country held on for the victory. We had to take a "cool down" walk after the game in order to ensure that there would be some level of productivity later in the day. So here it is, reactions from others who rejoiced in Donovan's game winning goal. I'm guessing that a few of these people needed "cool down walks" as well.


The World's Reaction to Landon Donovan's Game Winning Goal




To close, this win was historical on many different fronts:


-This was the fist World Cup win for the USA in 8 years.

-It was the first time that the USA has won their group in 80 years.

-It was the greatest victory in the history of USA soccer.

-Plus....a whole bunch of people were watching.


Many people will argue that this World Cup has already been a tremendous success for the United States; and they are correct. However, we still have a real chance to beat Ghana tomorrow (1 PM CT on ABC) and advance to the Quarterfinals. Regardless of what happens, I can guarantee you that our nation will be watching. USA..USA..USA...