Ouch

Especially after the remarkable come-from-behind victory of Australia over Japan in the early game (congrats to the Socceroos), I thought the USA might be able to break the dismal record they have when the opponents first score against them (0-13-1), but it was not to be, and worse, the Czech Republic got extra goals for that likely-to-be-crucial goal differential tie-breaker as they won 3-0. The USA did not look good, with one good shot that hit the post and a couple of decent scoring opportunities, but otherwise they looked tired and listless. I hope that USA coach Bruce Arena is able to find a combination that will come out and shine against Italy next Saturday. Now I'm rooting for a draw between Ghana and Italy, although it doesn't seem likely.