It was an exciting last day of matches in Group B with no teams clinching a semifinal spot left. Brazil, Italy, the United States, and Egypt all had chances to make the semifinals before Sunday. Brazil took on Italy and the United States faced Egypt. Here’s a recap and video highlights of both matches.
The United States beats Egypt 3-0, clinches semifinal birth – Video Highlights – The Americans had a very slight chance of making the semifinals as they needed a 3-0 victory and at least a 3-0 win by Brazil over Italy. They started out with much more confidence and intensity from previous matches, which eventually paid off. Manager Bob Bradley mixed up the lineup, leaving out DaMarcus Beasley and number one goalkeeper Braz Guzan. Charlie Davies got a start and from the beginning show his speed to be trouble for the Egyptian defense. Egypt had their chances the US defense appeared to be vulnerable but was able to hold on in the first half.
The hard work of the United States paid off when Jozy Altidore sent a pass into the goal that El Hadary couldn’t handle, and Charlie Davies capitalized with the first goal of the match. From that point on, the United States really asserted control of the match and nearly scored again late in the 1st half as they showed the heart and passion missing from the first two matches. In the second half it was more of the same as Egypt struggled to keep up with the Americans. In the second half, Michael Bradley made a good run as he passed to Donovan in the box, and received a pass back that he fired to the corner of the goal for a 2-0 US lead. At this point it seemed only a matter of time as the US had a 2-0 lead, Brazil was leading Italy 3-0 and a birth in the semifinals was within reach. A few minutes later, Jonathan Spector sent in a cross from the right wing and Clint Dempsey headed it to the far post to beat El Hadary. The Americans had their 3-0 lead and were able to hold off Egypt to advance to the semifinals.
It was one of the more improbable days as everything lined up for the Americans and they will now face reigning Euro 2008 Champions and the #1 ranked team Spain on Wendesday in the semifinals.
Brazil easily beats Italy 3-0, wins Group B – Video Highlights – Brazil dominated Italy for most of the match as they won Group B and will face South Africa in the semifinals. Italy needed a good performance to make the semifinals but couldn’t match the Brazilians who showed why they are arguably the most talented team in the world. Brazil got two goals from Luis Fabiano late in the first half and had another great chance that resulted in an own goal from Italian defender Andrea Dossena. The loss will be disappointing as Italy was in position but lost their final two matches in group play.
The win for Brazil will earn them a semifinal match against South Africa on Thursday where they will be the huge favorites.
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This is an amazing turn of events! Of course those of who follow USA Soccer know that they are a talented team. Gone are the days when we were a laughing stock to the world. We may not get by Spain, but we are holding our own against some quality competition. I watched most of the Brazil v Italy game. I wish I could have seen the USA V Egypt game as well. If we play our game, who knows, finals?