After one of the best Olympic performances in US Soccer history ended in a disappointing draw, the United States men now need to secure at least a draw against Nigeria to advance from the group stage to the quarterfinals. In a game the United States dominated for a good 65 out of 90 minutes against a Netherlands team considered a medal favorite, the US fought from a 1-0 deficit to earn a 2-1 lead courtesy of goals from Sacha Kljestan and Jozy Altidore. Unfortunately the scoreline did not hold, as a Kljestan turnover at midfield led to a foul and free kick for the Dutch about 45 seconds from full time. The subsequent drive from Gerald Sibon of the Netherlands went under a US wall that leapt, and found the back of the net. In what is still a fantastic result for the US, we were left with a bit of a sour feeling. Instead of looking at coasting into the quarters as group winner we now must beat or tie a tough Nigeria team, and do so without stars Freddy Adu and Michael Bradley who picked up yellow card suspensions.
I expect the US will be able to move on with Altidore and McBride up top and a capable Danny Szetela likely sliding into Bradley's midfield spot. Set those alarms and check out the deciding game at 5 AM Wednesday morning. Also don't forget the US women's match tomorrow morning at 7:45 AM (along with US men's hoops at 8).
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