As the minutes ticked away, the chances for the U.S. World Cup squad to advance was getting more and more unlikely. In many fans minds, it was over even though we kept attacking. All I could think about was waiting another four years for them to get another chance to prove themselves to the soccer World. But there it was -the changing moment. Landon Donovan’s 90th minute goal is arguably one of the best moments in U.S. soccer history!

With a win vs. Algeria, the U.S. squad would advance. But with all the chances they had, nothing seemed to fall their way. They hit the post, they missed a few great opportunities, and they even had a goal overturned. This wasn’t the only time we saw a bad call make a difference for them. They had to keep on playing and that’s what they did.

England was playing against Slovenia as the U.S. played Algeria. If England won their match, it would force the U.S. into a must win situation. We all knew that England took a lead early in the game and it was unlikely that Slovenia would get the equalizer with England’s strong and experienced backline. As each minute ticked away, it seemed as if the American boys were going home.

In the 90th minute, the U.S. had another counter attack. But this time it actually meant something. The ball was moved from north to south and this play ended with one of the most theatrical moments in U.S. soccer history.

And of course it was Landon Donovan. The leader of the team steps up for the occasion. This goal, as well as the goal in their comeback vs. Slovenia only solidifies the argument that Landon’s the greatest U.S. soccer player of all-time.

This game winner meant more than just advancing to the next round. It also meant that we finished the group stage ahead of England and on top of the tables for the first time in the modern era. The round of 16 match will be played vs. Ghana, the team that sent us home in the previous World Cup.

The U.S. squad proved that they never give up. They’ll fight until the final whistle. They’ve showed they can come back and they’ve showed they can score. With a bit of luck on their side and the fight they’ve been playing with, anything can happen in the knockout stage.

If the U.S. brings their A-game vs. Ghana, they’re legit contenders. Keep an eye on Landon Donovan and watch the magic he brings. A win here will make more noise for U.S. soccer.

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