This must make the front page in the United States even if soccer is not their number one sports, as USA knocked European Champions, Spain, out of the Confederations Cup at the Free State Stadium.
The Gold Cup winners proved to be the first real test for Spain in the tournament as they began the game in blistering fashion. Fulham’s Dempsey crossed early on and Davies bicycle kicked the ball just wide to worry the Spanish Keeper, Casillas.
LA Galaxy striker Donovan was a real handful and the engine behind the Americans’ attacking display. He surged towards Sergio Ramos early on before playing in Dempsey who shot wide of Casillas’s post. Then Donovan himself shot from long range before finding Altidore who turned his marker and powered towards the goal, sliding the ball in the net. This was Spain’s first goal conceded in 14 games and even more ironic as Altidore, who plays his football in Spain, has been dubbed a flop all season for his club Villareal.
Spain were lacklustre in their passing and movement in the first half, but still created some decent chances to level. Liverpool striker Fernando Torres was off target from Fabregas’s cross and Valencia striker David Villa was also frustrated as he blazed over from inside the box. Torres had more chances but was left irritated by a dogged American defence who blocked everything. When men were not in the way, it was luck that saved them as the Liverpool striker forced his way through the defence before cutting back to strike a shot off the post just before half time.
La Roja came out all guns firing as they camped in their opponents’ half. David Villa, Xabi Alonso and Albert Reira all creating chances but Everton keeper Tim Howard was in the way to keep his side ahead. Cesc Fabregas forced Howard into a fine save with a long range effort before Sergio Ramos, who looked certain to score, saw his shot blocked by Clark.
United States were up against it but played on the counter with pace, and 20 minutes from time, it proved dividend as Donovan crossed from the right and the Spanish defence failed to clear, Dempsey was there to slide the ball into the net and give the USA an assured two goal lead.
David Villa and Xabi Alonso created more chances but failed to hit the target before USA defender Bradley was sent off for a studded challenge that seemed acceptable. Nevertheless the Americans held on to make history, knocking the favourites out of the competition.
This was Spain’s first defeat since November 16th 2006, an incredible run that came to an end against a fully spirited USA team determined to make it to the final against all the odds.
