USA! USA! USA!

Published 12:00 am Thursday, June 24, 2010

Finally, something went the United States soccer team’s way Wednesday at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.

Landon Donovan’s goal in the first minute of extra time, off a rebound ESPN reports, couldn’t have come at a better time for the Americans.

With the win, the United States knocked Algeria out with the 1-0 win, and advances to the Round of 16, and this sports editor couldn’t be happier.

Who knew that the USA had a chance to win its group?

I for sure believed they had a chance, and the first match against England gave me a sense that they can play with anybody.

The team proved that Wednesday.

Amidst the controversy with the goal that should have been against Slovenia after coming from behind on a 2-0 deficit, the U.S. team has stayed stoic, focused on the task at hand.

With that said, I am excited for what lies ahead for our national team at the World Cup.

The next round for the Americans will be against Ghana — runner-up in Group D. Ghana fell to Germany 1-0.

So, I wonder what the sports analysts will say about the disallowed goal earlier in the match Wednesday, and the one last Friday against Slovenia?

Probably nothing much because the United States is advancing, and its next match will be Saturday at 1:30 p.m. CST.

The win is also amazing because Wednesday was the first time the United States won its group since 1930.

Wow!

And, what did Donovan say after the match on ESPN.com, which I am holding on to?

“We’re not done yet,” he said. “We believe, man. We’re alive, baby.”

Yes we, as a nation aren’t done yet at the World Cup.

The Americans’ next challenge against Ghana will be a tough one to get ready for in only a few days.

But right now, the Americans are exactly where they need to be, and they believe they can win the next match.

Will they win this next match?

I know all American fans of this awesome sport believe it, too.