A draw...

The US isn’t out of the World Cup just yet, not after a 1-1 draw with Italy. I can’t recall being so nervous before a game that I was watching (rather than competing in) since I wasn’t sure how the Americans would come out. Would they respond to Monday’s embarrassment with an inspired effort, or would they cement themselves as the laughingstock of the soccer world? Thankfully the US showed a sense of urgency and the balls to attack that was sorely lacking against the Czech Republic. And the Americans didn’t quit attacking either, not after falling behind at the 22^nd minute on a nice set piece by the Italians or when two of their players were red carded. Thankfully their hard work didn’t go unrewarded as one of Italy’s defenders scored an own goal, tying the game.

Despite not scoring a goal of their own yet, the US finds itself in a position where it can advance to the knockout phase. All they need to do is defeat upstart Ghana and hope Italy defeats the Czechs on Thursday. I can only hope.