The Americans now stand fifa 14 ultimate team coins in second place with three points, behind Germany in Group G on goal differential. This is theoretically a very strong position going into the next critical match against Portugal. But the win was a Pyrrhic one. Jozy Altidore, one of only two forwards on the team with World Cup experience, pulled a hamstring in the 21st minute and is likely lost for the tournament. Without Landon Donovan on the roster, Jurgen Klinsmann will be forced to go with Dempsey as the lone striker or start Aron Johannsson against Portugal. Remarkably, this was the first goal by a U.S. forward in a World Cup since 2002, since Brian McBride scored in a second-round match against Mexico.

After that, however, the Americans grew far too cautious, ceding the midfield as if they were facing Italy, Spain or France. Ghana retained possession for a full 60% of the first half, when it is known more for its vertical strikes. Michael Bradley was especially disappointing, never quite in the right spot or making the right pass. The back line kept its shape for the most part, though DaMarcus Beasley was caught roaming way upfield on occasions and there were a few glaring errors.

Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan, unmarked, missed a wide open header early in the second half and then sailed another one just wide. Tim Howard was forced to come off his line on several occasions to stop attacks. There were many more U.S. fans in Arena das Dunas than Ghana supporters, and the American Outlaws made themselves heard. The Brazilians in attendance, for the most part, rooted for the more ambitious Africans.

Ghana coach James Kwesi Appiah started the match without Michael Essian, Kevin-Prince Boeteng and Abdul Majeed Waris, who was injured recently and not in form. These were three of his highest profile players, another indication of just how much national coaches dislike national stars.

The day began in fine fashion for the Americans, with a result that could only help them in the race for second place and advancement. As the coaches watched and scouted off the TV, Germany routed Portugal, 4-0, on a hat trick by Thomas Muller - likely killing the Portuguese in any future tiebreaker. Muller won the Golden Boot four years ago with five goals, and is already ahead of his pace. His explosion meant the U.S. most likely required only a victory over Ghana and a draw against Portugal to advance.

On top of that, Pepe, one of Portugal's top defenders, was red-carded for a stupid head butt and won't be available against the Americans in their match on Sunday. The Americans got wildstar gold their victory over Ghana, even if it was largely undeserved. They've no had only five wins in the World Cup since 1990, so you take them when they come.

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