The blogging has slipped over the last couple days, but I'm up watching the Americans' final group game, and you should be too.
Yesterday's South Korea/Nigeria matched showed why the simultaneous final groups games can be so thrilling ... and so devastating. As Argentina trotted their way to a late-ish 2–0 win (the powerful Albiceleste didn't break the Greek defense until the 77th minute), second place—and with it, qualification for the second round—hung in the balance. It was edge-of-your-seat stuff. As South Korea clung to a 2–2 tie, Nigeria looked the stronger of the sides. But the African team couldn't find the final touch and they head home.
The U.S. finds itself in a strong position—win and they're in. They'll have to avoid the early let-up that has troubled them in each of the last two games. And they'll have to find goals. Not much more analysis than that. There is a series of other scenarios that, should the U.S. tie today, still sees them through to the second round — look 'em up. For me, all those scenarios are moot — just win the game.
My prediction: 2–0. I'll check back in after the game.
UPDATE: Just saw the lineup — Bornstein at left-back is troubling, almost mind-boggling. He's had more than his share of slip-ups in a U.S. shirt. But he's also had some big games — here's hoping he digs one out tonight.
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