Rafik Djebbour almost gave Algeria a dream start.
9′: Jay De Merit almost gave the US a repeat of their earlier nightmares as he completely flubbed a long ball which bounced in front of Djebbour whose looping shot beat Howard but luckily hit the crossbar.
21′: In another inexplicable decision, Clint Dempsey’s goal was ruled out offside. Gomez goes for power unwisely but his shot is blocked by Mbohli and on the rebound Gomez drives the ball across goal to Dempsey who guides the ball in. Celebrations begin but the linesman’s flag is up. Unbelievable!
37′: Another golden chance goes waste when Altidore and Dempsey both go for a shot after Bradley’s beautiful pass finds Mbolhi out of position but Altidore shanks the ball in front of a wide open goal. How did he miss?
Its been a nerve wracking first half and now with England up over Slovenia through Jermain Defoe’s goal, if the results hold it will be England and Slovenia getting through the next round.
The USA has to find a way through and they are getting chances. Bob Bradley needs to get Gomez out who has been going in for power, whereas they need more guile.
Benny Feilhaber is in for Gomez.