All Things Darryl

Prediction: USA 2 GHANA 1

With a few of the world superstar teams exiting early from the World Cup, and others failing to play up to their potential..the US team has earned an opportunity to join elite company. By winning their prospective bracket after the dramatic stoppage time goal vs Algeria, the US has avoided the super power teams for the next 2 rounds. This certainly doesn't mean that it'll be EASY....but avoiding Germany and Argentina is BIG. (They have 5 World Cup championships combined). First obstacle: Ghana. The U.S will be seeking revenge as Ghana spoiled the U.S National team in 2006 from the round of 16. Here is the breakdown:

Experience: U.S.

Ghana may have propelled its young players to the round of 16 with local support and without super stars like Michael Essien. But nothing substitutes for World cup experience: Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, Demarcus Beasley, Tim Howard etc. Advantage U.S.



Speed: GHANA

One thing is for sure, Ghana is probably the fastest squad in the Cup. They are a physical and at times reckless squad. The American team will need to keep its cool and slow the pace at times.



Offense: U.S

Ghana lacks offense..2 of their goals so far have been Penalty kicks. They will shoot mostly from range and attempt to create chances by set pieces. The U.S has an offense driven 2010 team. Their team has outscored the competition in both the qualifying brackets and Group C World cup finals bracket.



Defense: TIE

Ghana has stellar defense, probably a bit stronger in the back then the U.S. But against the twin towers Altidore and Buddle...Ghana is gonna see something they hadn't anticipated. Its gonna get physical on both ends...


The difference between this U.S. team and those in the past is that we have shown an ability to triumph over adversity. Expect some in this game.



U.S 2 GHANA1