U.S vs. Ghana Breakdown

                With a great start for the U.S with a goal from Clint Dempsey 34 seconds in, the U.S Mens National were riding high, with an injury to Jozy Altidore and a late winner from John Anthony Brooks, there is plenty to talk about.

·         Dempsey scores early

o   After receiving the ball on a throw in, the most famous member of the national team got on the board early, in one of the fastest goals in world cup history. Clint Dempsey took the ball in, and used his strength to get to goal, a trait that playing European Football for as long as he has will do for you. If the U.S are to do well, Clint Dempsey will have to be on top of his game.

·         Jozy Altidore Injury:

o   Im assuming the worst, that Jozy will not be returning for the tournament. Despite being in terrible form at Sunderland, he was starting to pick up steam after scoring two goals, or a brace, against Nigeria in a pre-cup warm up. Jozy brought speed and strength from the table, in fact Jozy had beaten the Ghana defender to the ball before he pulled up on his hamstring.

·         Michael Bradley

o   At the top of the diamond, Michael Bradley is supposed to Quarterback the U.S effort offensively. However he was very quiet today, he didn’t get the opportunity to move up in the attack, and was a big non-factor in this game. The U.S will need him to be more of a factor in the coming games.

·         Back Line (defense)

o   Matt Besler went out at halftime, I saw him grab his hamstring at the end of the half so that may be something that will be looked at in the coming days. At that second half the defense was tested  and brought to the brink, a great back heal to Andre Ayew resulted in the equalizing goal, they did have some holes in the defense tonight, holes that Cristiano Ronaldo with run through like the kool aid man.

·         The United States may just get through this group.

o   The U.S lost Jozy, but Portugal lost so much more.  Portugals two best options at Center Back will not be playing against the U.S on Sunday. Pepe was given a straight red card for headbutting Thomas Mueller, and Fabio Contreao went down with an injury. Along with Portugal Center Forward Hugo Almeida, Portugal will be coming into Sunday limping.