FIFA World Cup 2010: Well Worth Wait, Landon Donovan's Redemption Advances USA

For a while there it was looking as if the USA would be sent home packing for a second straight World Cup.  Something no American fan wanted to see after 2006.

Team USA came to South Africa ready and prepared to advance in group stage, and came into this game knowing that getting five points would be key to advancing to the Round of 16.

Coming into this game against Algeria there was one sentiment spread throughout the entire team. Just win.

Win and the USA would advance.

In a game of twists and turns, it was the USA who couldn't get the ball in the back of the net, and was looking at a draw that would see them eliminated from this World Cup.

Clint Dempsey had a goal disallowed once again from a questionable offside call. The referees once again played a crucial role in the outcome of this game.

It continued as the USA put a shot off the post, just wide, and a near-strike from Michael Bradley on a free kick.

The chances were endless, but the one goal USA needed wasn't on the board after 90 minutes of play.

That is, until Landon Donovan got an opportunity to put one in the back of the net.

Jozy Altidore sprinted up the field and led it to Dempsey who nearly missed as the goalkeeper dove straight on, but the rebound was there and Donovan took full advantage of it knocking it in the back of the net.

A goal that will certainly be remembered for years to come. 

Donovan arrived on this stage eight years ago and anybody who thinks he hasn't been the difference-maker in making USA Soccer as popular as it is today is downright crazy.

In the post game interviewed there was raw emotion in the eyes of Donovan. 

“I’ve been on a long journey the last four years,” he said.

He went on to add that he was “so proud” of his team, that he was “shocked,” and that the moment was “unbelievable.”

An American sports hero was born this afternoon.

The USA has propelled themselves to the Knockout Stage, and this was the first step for them to take in their attempt to winning the World Cup.

It continues Saturday at 2:30pm where the stage is even bigger.

Win or go home. 

The USA learned this lesson first hand today.

Thanks to Landon Donovan, Team USA lives to see another day in World Cup play.