USA vs. Ghana 2010 World Cup: Ghana Ends USA's Run at World Cup

For the second straight time, a much more spirited Ghana team has ousted the Americans out of the FIFA World Cup in a 2-1 win. 

It's a bitter end for the Americans after such a great run through group play, including a comeback tie to Slovenia and late goal heroics by Landon Donovan against Algeria, the goal that put the USA in the round of 16.

The U.S. did meet many expectations that experts put for them in advancing out of group play, but losing to Ghana was a huge missed opportunity for the U.S. Winning group C over England and battling back in games during group play captured many American hearts. Not to forget that the U.S. had a fairly easy draw, playing a good, but not great Ghana team, and, if they won, a decent Uruguay team. 

Instead an extra time defensive collapse, on a long ball that was seriously underplayed by the U.S. defense, gave the young Ghana forward, Asamoah Gyan, the game-winning goal.

Once that goal went through, American hearts' sunk. After being elated on Donovan's goal against Algeria, it seems America had a short spurt of soccer fever. The goal was broadcasted on virtually every news channel nationwide and many videos were uploaded on Youtube of Americans celebrating. 

Well, all of that has gone. I assume many Americans will stop watching the games, which is a shame, but it was nice to see some actual caring for the U.S. team, only if it lasted for a couple of days. 

While it's what was expected of them, for some reason it seems like a huge letdown. Maybe it's because this team had the talent to make a decent run at the Cup. I never expected them to win, but losing in the first round of elimination games seems like a huge disappointment not only to the fans but the players also. I think they knew they had the possibility of doing much better. I am sure this loss will trouble them for many days. 

With the U.S. or without, the World Cup still goes on, and there is still plenty of great games to watch.