From
where I sit it looks like the US team has a reason to be thrilled
with a draw against Portugal...
This
was heartbreaking. It was a split second of brilliance from Ronaldo
that cost the Americans full points. The entire second half was as
engaging as anything we've seen in the tournament. Watching the
reactions of fans around the US was as enthralling as it was sad. So
close to a birth in the knockout stages and a come back win over a
football powerhouse. What's to be thrilled about? People care.
There are viewing parties. It's the lead story not just on the sport
pages, but in the news. It's easy to get people excited about a
winning team in any sport. There are plenty of bandwagon jumpers no
matter who's playing, it's even easier when it's being played at
home. But it's when you can see real disappointment; you can tell
they are truly fans. The people along for the ride shrug their
shoulders and go on with their day. This wasn't a collective shrug
from the American people. This was a palpable reaction. They got
kicked in the gut. It was like watching reactions in London or
Madrid. But this was Los Angeles and Kansas City. In the end the
Americans still control their own fate and can advance with a win or
draw against Germany. No matter the outcome on Thursday, US Soccer
should look back on the tie with Portugal not just as proof they can
play with and beat the best; but as evidence that football is finally
becoming a major sport in the United States.
At
least that's how I see it, and I sit in the cheap seats.
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