Global Sports: Landon Donovan: An American Hero

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Landon Donovan: An American Hero

By Garreth Lipton


As the minutes ticked away, the chances for the U.S. World Cup squad to advance was getting more and more unlikely. In many fans minds, it was over even though we kept attacking. All I could think about was waiting another four years for them to get another chance to prove themselves to the soccer World. But there it was -the changing moment. Landon Donovan's 90th minute goal is arguably one of the best moments in U.S. soccer history!

It was a must win situation for U.S.A. in their final game vs. Algeria. This game had American soccer fans biting their nails and caused many pits in stomachs. I know my stomach couldn't handle it. They had some incredible chances, but nothing was falling for them. Once again, they even had a poor decision made by the ref which took a goal back from them.

While the U.S. was playing Algeria, the England vs. Slovenia match was also being played. As England took a lead in the first half, U.S. was forced to win if they wanted to advance. England never really looked threatened by Slovenia, so as an American fan, we were in trouble.

The history making goal was incredible. It took them 12 seconds to build the play up and counter attack from end line to end line. If you didn't see this goal, it's a must see as it's possibly the most dramatic goals in the U.S. soccer history. The U.S. soccer team has been playing as a National Team for 94 years and many are crediting Landon's goal as the most dramatic in history.

And of course it was Landon Donovan. The leader of the team steps up for the occasion. This goal, as well as the goal in their comeback vs. Slovenia only solidifies the argument that Landon's the greatest U.S. soccer player of all-time.

With this incredible game winner by the U.S. team, it would put them in first place in their group stage. This means they avoid playing Germany in the 2nd round and will face Ghana. Although Ghana is very strong, they're definitely no Germany. Not only did it mean we get the easier opponent, but finishing the group stage in 1st place is a first for the U.S. It's a major accomplishment, especially with England in the group.

This team has more fight in them than other team I've seen in the World Cup so far. Hopefully they can bring the same level of intensity to Ghana. The winner of this match plays the winner of South Korea vs. Uruguay. And the winner of that advanced to the Semi-finals. We couldn't ask for a better draw at this point!

If the U.S. brings their A-game vs. Ghana, they're legit contenders. Keep an eye on Landon Donovan and watch the magic he brings. A win here will make more noise for U.S. soccer.




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