To advance out of group play, to survive the “Group of Death,” the US needed a win against Ghana, and just when it seemed they’d be lucky to tie, a header went in and the American’s chances went up. It was a a heart-stopper, as Ghana continued to knock, tying the match in the 81st. For the US, a victory came with redemption as well, besting the country that had eliminated them in the previous two World Cups. Clint Dempsey scored early, took a shot to the nose, and lead the US to a thrilling win. See how they did it below.
1. First Minute Magic
With a history of giving up early goals, the US struck quick when Dempsey snuck around the defense, striking perfectly with his left. It was early magic for the Yanks and a jolt of hope for a huge win.
2. Jozy Pulls Up
The American striker had made the run, went for the ball, and pulled up lame. It was a hamstring injury that took him out of the rest of the game. The moment was dramatic and Altidore’s availability for future matches remained in doubt. News came late though that he would be ready come Sunday, when the US take on Portugal. A country exhales.
3. Nose Goes
Shortly after Altidore left on a stretcher, Clint Dempsey took a shot right to the nose. Sustaining another huge loss would have decimated the Americans, but their captain returned, with a Frankstein-like twisted sniffer.
4. Ghana Equalizes
After repeated attempts, close shots nearly missing on all corners of the goal, Ghana finally put one in the back of the net with a beautiful back heal and finish. The clock had seemingly struck midnight on the US. 80 minutes of scoreless action punctuated with what was growing inevitable.
5. A Winning Sub
Just as the reality of a tie was setting in, American defender John Brooks put a header in off a corner in the 86th minute, playing hero at just 21 years old. Subbed in at the 46th minute, Brooks becomes the first American to score an international goal off the bench and gives his team breath as the group stage plays on.