Major Upset In South Africa
Clint Dempsey falls to the ground as he scores the Americans' second goal against Spain. Photo by Getty Images.
Jozy Altidore opened the scoring for the Yanks at the 27th minute off a feed from Clint Dempsey. Altidore fought off defensive pressure about 25 yards out to make his way to the edge of the box and unloaded. The shot proved too much for Spanish 'keeper Iker Casillas to deal with and the best he could do was slow it down with his outstretched right hand then watch it go into the back of the net.
Drama immediately followed. A determined Spanish side gave the American defense all it could handle and then some. Fernando Torres, David Villa, Xavi Hernandez and Xabi Alonso pressured the U.S. goal repeatedly, constantly challenging Bocanegra and the rest of the American backline. But the defensive quartet held firm and U.S. 'keeper Tim Howard filled the gaps, making numerous wonderful saves and keeping his side in the lead until the break.
It didn't get any easier in the second half. The Furia Roja stepped it up a notch and took the game to the Americans from the start. Howard and the U.S. defense was again put to the test. Just when it seemed as though the defense was ready to break, Clint Dempsey relieved some of the pressure when he doubled the lead for the U.S. squad with a 74th minute goal. A desperate Spanish side pressured further, but the U.S. team held on, even after going a man down for the last 5 minutes of regulation. It was a great showing overall by the Americans.
The heart and determination they demonstrated in earning their victory over the World's best will surely gain the team a new level of respect at the world level. On Sunday, their final act will be their participation in the Confederations Cup Final versus Brazil or South Africa. It too will be another great opportunity to make a statement.