Six goal swing for the U.S as Egyptians crash out
The wise person who first uttered the immortal words: “Football- it’s a funny old game” was once again proved correct as the previously unwavering and diligent Egyptians fell to a U.S side who have looked poor and lethargic throughout the tournament.
- Every Egyptian expected to progress to the next round: including national team coach Hassan Shehat
Both sides went into the game with hopes of reaching the semi-finals; the Egyptians had amassed three points from a possible six in their last two games, unluckily losing to Brazil 4-3 but recovering superbly to beat a disappointing Italy side 1-0. The United States have found their group games a little more difficult however, falling 3-1to the Azurri and 3-0 to Brazil. The Americans needed a six goal swing to proceed to the semi’s- requiring Italy to fall to Brazil and needing a heavy win over Egypt. It comes as no surprise then to learn that few placed any bets on this eventuality.
But betting’s a mugs game.
It took the US 20 minutes to open the scoring and they did so in a bizarre fashion. A clearance led to an American throw-in, and the resulting throw failed to pick out a white shirt, as the ball flew towards the Egyptian ‘keeper- Al Hadari. However the goalie, who looked mightily impressive in Egypt’s recent game against Italy, spilt the ball, gifting an opportunity to the marauding American forward Charlie Davies. Despite the onrushing Egyptian defenders and the scrabbling Al-Hadari, the forward nimbly flicked the ball away from the touchline and scooped it towards goal; a touch from Al-Hadari saw the ball spin into the Egyptian goal.
- Al Hadari despairs as the ball nestles in his net. 1-0 to the U.S
The first half ended with the United States 1 up and the Italians 3 down, meaning that if the Americans could find 2 more goals and the Italian score line remained the same, the U.S would progress in extraordinary circumstances. But it was next to impossible- wasn’t it?
The second half started in an exhilarating fashion with good chances for both sides and the Americans should have had a penalty when Altidore’s shot was blocked on the line by a handball from an Egyptian defender. Fortunately for the Egyptians, the referee doesn’t give the decision every American wanted. The Americans kept applying the pressure, however and this eventually paid off. Landon Donovan’s pass was coolly converted by midfielder Bradley who shot past the despairing Al Hadari.
- Bradley turns to celebrate after converting to put the U.S 2-up.
The goal sent waves of confidence to reverberate around the American ranks, with the players safe in the knowledge that one more goal would see them in the driving seat to progress. And that goal eventually came when Dempsey headed home from Spector’s cross. 3-0 to the Americans, as the Egyptians writhed in desperation.
- The crowd watch Dempsey celebrate in shock: three-nil to the U.S and they look set to qualify.
The African cup of nations winners pressed for a winner late on but never really threatened the American defence, the exception maybe being Wael Gomaa header. The Egyptian defender inexplicably missed a point blank header and headed over the crossbar.
As the final whistle blew, the Americans rejoiced after completing one of the greatest comebacks in Confederations Cup history. Football: it’s a funny old game.
