FIFA WORLD CUP 2010- USA needs more strikes from Donovan to beat Ghana
As Landon Donovan scored the last gasp winner against Algeria, USA jumped to the top of the group and progressed to the next round. USA gained the all important momentum as they headed into the knock stage when they face Ghana on Saturday. By winning the group, they dodged the international powerhouse Germany, with Germany now facing the all star England.
Defeating Ghana, however, would not be an easy feat, but perhaps it is better than facing Germany. If USA overcome the Black Stars, they would face either Uruguay or South Korea. South Korea may well be preferred than the tough Uruguayans, who are yet to face defeat. Both teams may provide a difficult task to the Americans, but are definitely not as testing as the threat from the Brazilians, Spanish or Argentineans. England, on the other hand, faces Germany, followed by either Argentina or Mexico, provided if they pass the German threat.
Luck is perhaps on their side as they get perhaps the least challenging run-in. After failing to advance to the next round in the 2006 World Cup, suffering a 2-1 defeat from the Black Stars, USA has come back stronger in this World Cup. The defeat came after a controversial penalty call, which saw Ghana convert the penalty into an expected goal, resulting in USA crashing out in the Round of 16. USA would want to avenge that defeat this time round, and would be hoping to even the score and defeat the Black Stars.
But it would be un-wise to write Ghana off completely. Known to be the quickest team of the tournament, Ghana enjoys a young and fast squad. They also benefit from perhaps a home advantage. All the Africans would be cheering for Ghana, as they would be representing the home continent. Their star midfielder, Michael Essein will be missed, owing to a knee injury, ruling him out of the World Cup. But, then again, they have progressed so far without him. They may, however, need to find the goal using their own ability rather than referees assistance, as the both of the goals scored so far have been via penalties.
The inebriating victory by the USA may be the driving force they need. “UnStoppAble” is what a poster read, and they might well be. They are on fire, and they would hope to keep the fire burning when they head into the clash against Ghana. They will have to let their undeniable talent and skills, conquer their fears, and limit Ghana’s ability. They will have to keep a close check on Ghana striker Asamoag Gyan, who has scored the only two goals for Ghana.
They are also strong in the penalty taking department, as they head into the knockout stage, where a winner is needed. Dempsey, Donovan and Altidore, all have the ability to take penalties. Apart from that, USA has been impressive with their shots on goal either being denied by the heart breaking framework or good saves from keepers. If given the time and space inside the box, neither of the three is expected to miss. They also enjoy one of the most impressive keepers of the tournament, Tim Howard, and he has proven himself to be a fighter. He would therefore play a key role, if it comes to a penalty shootout.
Most pundits still expect USA to make it through to the semi finals, and therefore are strong contenders. USA has the ability and talent to pass through a not so difficult road, compared to the likes of England and Argentina. However, their fairy tale run will come to halt, as they would face Brazil in the semi final, if both of them do defeat their opposition. Despite all, football’s volatility and unpredictability makes it the most beautiful game and nothing can be said for certain. Upsets and magical moments may just be what USA need to pass through and perhaps challenge for the coveted trophy in this all open FIFA 2010 World Cup.
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