2010 FIFA World Cup: Team USA Primed For Semifinal Run

My how things have changed.

On the verge of a second consecutive exit in the group stage of the World Cup, the United States Men's National Team now have a legitimate chance of matching their deepest run ever—the semifinals.

Why?

Not only are the U.S. playing at the top of their game right now, but they have serious momentum and are riding an emotional high after Landon Donovan's last-minute heroics against Algeria.

Oh, and they face Ghana in the first round, followed by either Uruguay or South Korea in the quarterfinals. While all three sides aren't exactly pushovers—Uruguay is playing about as well as anybody—their corner of the bracket is infinitely easier than England's, which includes Germany, Argentina and Mexico.

It really can't be emphasized enough how fortunate it is that the U.S. landed in this quarter of the bracket. Between the United States' foursome, there are only two World Cup championships, both by Uruguay, and the most recent 60 years ago. Compare that to England's quartet that has hoisted six trophies already.

But enough with what's happening off the pitch; let's focus on what the U.S. has done on it to show they can advance.

After starting off unbearably slow in their first two matches, the U.S. seemed to hit their stride in the second half versus Slovenia and hasn’t looked back since. Down 2-0 against the Slovenians, Team USA clawed their way back into the match and tied it 2-2 with less than 10 minutes remaining. Had Maurice Edu’s game-winner in the 85th minute counted the U.S. would have completed their first comeback win in World Cup history.

The Americans continued their opportunistic play in their final group match against Algeria. While everybody has seen Donovan’s magical goal dozens—or hundreds—of times, there is more to take away from their match against the Desert Foxes than that.

A clean sheet, dynamic offense, and never-say-die attitude were all on display during Wednesday’s match. The numerous scoring chances, even though they weren’t converted, are testament to the fact that USA has the tools to be dangerous in the attacking third. Add that to the fact that head Coach Bob Bradley strengthened the defense by sitting a hobbled Oguchi Onyewu, and the U.S. is looking like a serious threat.

If the Americans continue playing like they have for the past 135 minutes of the World Cup, they have a genuine opportunity to attain their first semifinal appearance since 1930.

No more disallowed goals would help, too.