Real Americans Had No Doubt























The USA sure took a long time to put Algeria away, eh? I caught the last 15 minutes on a renegade Univision feed, and it didn't sound any more encouraging in Spanish. I was pleased they added 4 minutes at the end of the second half though.

And, sure enough, with about a minute gone, they hit paydirt. Jozy Altidore actually setting up the goal (that's 2 now in this World Cup) with a pass to Clint Dempsey, who missed again in this match, and then Landon Donovan slammed in the loose ball for the 1-0 win. Then the dogpile appeared. USA wins a Group for the first time in forever, as England beat Slovenia, 1-0.

Donovan's Goal



Of course, another awful decision by a ref nullified a goal earlier in the match.

Offside? What Offside?



But we are the home of the NBA, so we should be used to bad calls by now.

Next up for the USA are the Black Stars of Ghana on Saturday. Ghana was beaten by Germany, 1-0. But they still advanced because Serbia spit the bit against the Socceroos, 2-1. On paper, this is a much better matchup than Germany. However, Ghana eliminated the USA in 2006. BTW, Germany plays England on Sunday, which should be a good one.

I do not know much about Ghana except their official language is English and they have gold there. So, my early prediction is that I will have many adult beverages on Saturday. And if you take a peek at the bracket, it is shaping up as a "weak" one, so who knows what may happen?

Meal of Links

They actually let Gen. McChrystal go today. Here is the Rolling Stone article that prompted his removal.

25 things you didn't know about Blondie. Well, I knew some of them.

Tea party protester or soccer fan? You decide!

What a car costs. Ohio is sorta middle-of-the-pack.

Landon Donovan's goal earlier today may also have set a record. A record for Internet traffic. Up 190% more than usual.

Exercise Yard

Major leaguers and their relationships with their bats. Love 'em or hate 'em.

Visitor

5 Down: Partner of Seals (6 letters) Answer: Crofts

"Summer Breeze"/Seals and Crofts (plus guy in back)