Second Half Heroics

In one of the most exciting games of the 2010 World Cup, the United States clawed its way back from a 2-0 deficit to tie Slovenia. The US showed grit and determination to come from two goals down and almost win the match.

The US again let the opposing side dictate the tempo early on — giving up a goal in the thirteenth minute. Slovenian midfielder Valter Birsa waltzed to the top of the US's box unmarked and drove the ball home for the first goal of the match.

Down a goal but determined to get back in the game, the US created several chances to pull even. The closest opportunity came after a terrific combination of passes between Altidore, Findley and Dempsey in Slovenia's final third. Dempsey's pass across the face of the net set up Donovan for a golden opportunity that was whisked away by a Slovenian defender at the last second.

Donovan's heart-wrenching chance was followed a minute later by a heartbreaking Slovenian counterattack goal just before halftime. With two quick passes and a defensive lapse for the US, Slovenian forward Zlatan Ljubijankic beat Howard one on one to take a two goal to nil lead.

The first half of play however would not decide the game.

Landon Donovan started the comeback off in dramatic fashion after blasting a near post shot past Slovenia's keeper in the 48th minute. The US kept attacking the goal, and with a tactical change from Bob Bradley to play a 3-4-3, they were rewarded for their efforts.

Of all the players to score, it was the Coach's son, Michael Bradley who provided the crucial equalizer. With perfect timing and a soft touch, Bradley tracked down an Altidore cross and finessed the ball over Slovenia's goalkeeper.

The way the US was playing, it looked like they would find a third goal — and they did. Maurice Edu finished a Landon Donovan set piece ball only to have it called back by the referee. The soccer community, heck, the entire world is still trying to figure out where the foul was and there has yet to be a clarification from the officiating crew.

Despite the disallowed goal, the US showed the world that its a 90 minute team that can take punches and keep fighting.

What did you think of the game? What was the highlight? And what does the US need to get through to the knock out round?