Going into Sunday, the United States needed a monumental effort from both themselves and Brazil. Brazil held up their end of the bargain, but could the United States shut out Egypt while scoring three goals? The answer, simply put, was yes.
Brazil didn’t need much to get by the Italians on Sunday, as the South Americans outplayed an aging Italian team. So it was left up to the United States. Score three goals, allow none and they would get the right to challenge Spain on Wednesday in the Confederations Cup semi-final.
Hitting the fast forward button after goals from Charlie Davies, Michael Bradley and Clint Dempsey, the USA looked like a completely different team from early on in the week. They played with heart, fire and most of all, Â purpose. The United States didn’t quit for 90 minutes. They fought overseas and were determined to show the world that the Americans still cared.
Bob Bradley and the U.S. Soccer Federation have a lot of work to do before next summer, but the mindset and focus of the U.S. is apparent. After facing Brazil and Italy, the Americans should be proud of themselves. Nobody gave them a chance this week, but the Americans could very well be the story of the tournament aside from the host nation, South Africa.
Sunday was supposed to be about Italy and Egypt. Sunday was going to be the day that the United States media called for Bob Bradley’s head. Instead, the United States survived the “group of death” without a lifeline. Ladies and gentlemen, Sunday ended up being a good day for American soccer.
