Because I was well into my 2nd bottle of brandy didn't mean it in combative manner though Game against Ghana US were bad upfront and good defensively, opposite of what you said, I was actually surprised at your assessment. And even "good D" is a shaky statement. Beasley is a fucking overrated moron, I counted at least 4 times when he either let them through or gave the ball away. He should've been pulled before the halftime. Ghana was getting so much penetration through our left flank I don't understand why they even tried to go elsewhere. I became a little more optimistic re Portugal game over the past couple of days, but very cautiously so.
I think the US has a good chance today. While US injuries to Altidore, Dempsey and Besler hurt a little they only lose Altidore for the game. Portugal on the other hand is missing 2 starting defenders in Pepe and Coentrao. Then with the forwards who knows how bad Ronaldo's knee really is and Almeida has a pulled hamstring and is doubtful for the game. Patricio who was in goal against Germany is out (One site says he is the reserve keeper, not sure why), so it will be Beto or Eduardo in goal. So 3 missing starters, the best player with a bum knee and the goalie out also. The more I typed the more I liked the US chances.
So the nightmare scenario is if we lose to Portugal's 2nd crew. No pressure at all... Fuck, I'm starting to get pre-game jitters
The loss of Altidore was much greater last game than this one. Our entire gameplan went to shit the moment he went out. Like 23rd minute?? We've had 4 days to come up with something else in order to attack and score. USA is gonna win this 2-1. This game reminds me of the chile v Spain game. Backs against the wall for them? So what. They looked horrible against Germany.
I've been enjoying watching the World Cup, so far. But I gotta say: I kind of have a difficult time taking some of these guys seriously with the amount of flopping that occurs. There's public outcry when basketball players flop Charges and contact etc. Or when the Qbs flop to sell late-hits. Can you imagine if the players in major American sports flopped to this extent? Those players would be mocked and possibly even vilified by the public and media.
Portugal is still favored to win, even with them being without several players. I like USA win or draw (and they really need a result because Germany won't be lying down now, and it's very unlikely the US gets a result there).
The Belgians are into the next round. They could be a possible opponent. I'd much rather play the 2nd team in that group as it really looks like a weak group. Could you imagine getting through this group and getting Algeria or Korea in the next game. You could not have written a better script. Honestly I think Algeria beats Korea and gains control of the 2nd spot today then only needing a tie with the Ruskies to get through.
incredible pass and then coordination for the algeria goal. I think one of the Korean players deflected that ball a bit as it was bouncing
If they do, I'd be happy for the US. Just hoping Portugal will play a better game than they did against Germany.
