Brokenhearted in Brazil

The hearts of American soccer fans broke all over the world yesterday, as Belgium defeated the United States by a score of 2 – 1 in a World Cup thriller.

The match itself was filled with drama as outstanding goal keeping by Tim Howard of the United States held Belgium scoreless during regulation, sending the game into extra time. During the first period of extra time, however, things took a turn for the worse for the Americans.

Kevin De Bruyne of Belgium scored the first goal of the game during the third minute of extra time to give Belgium a 1 – 0 lead. Nine minutes later, Romelu Lukaku scored a goal to make it a 2 – 0 game in favor of Belgium.

During the second extra time period, a glimmer of hope for American soccer fans was provided by the youngest player on Team U.S.A., Julian Green, as he scored at the 107^th minute of the match. The Americans then began attacking the goal at a frantic pace and almost pulled even with Belgium when Clint Dempsey’s shot was stopped by Belgium goalie Thibaut Courtois at the game’s 114^th minute. Belgium was able to hold on for the 2 – 1 win.

This game was the very definition of a heartbreaker, and it had moments of despair and frustration as well as times of excitement and jubilation. It was an unbelievable match to watch, and it really showed how resilient the American team was. The Men's National Team has nothing to be ashamed about, as they were able to capture the heart of a nation with soccer. Based on their performance in the World Cup, things look pretty bright for the American soccer team as they begin looking toward the next World Cup.