US National Team makes it to World Cup FINAL!!!!

[charlie and algernon]

Beats France 3-1.

It killed me not to be able to watch it live. I've been following it on ESPN.com's gamecast.

At least I'll be able to watch the Championship on Sunday!

[joeybee12]

1. It was 1-1 and three minutes later when I reached the cafeteria, it was 3-1...

I missed the excitement of those 3 minutes.

[Awsi Dooger]

2. Badly outplayed until the 70 minute mark

France dominated touch and possession. For the bulk of the game it was a fluke if the USA maintained possession for more than 3 seconds.

It rightfully could have been a 1-3 goal France lead when it was 1-1.

But the USA made a good substitution and position change at the 70 minute mark and the game changed noticeably, much more evenly played. At that point the USA edge on set pieces suddenly was relevant again. Previously there was no chance for them since the USA seldom threatened to penetrate the French half, after the early counterattack goal.

Great aggressive header by Wombach after an even better right footed corner kick from the right side, perfectly straight and lofted to the far post.

The 3rd goal was a nifty chip on a breakaway.

This USA team isn't nearly as skilled in midfield as '99. I guess I'll root for Japan since the USA's edge in the air would seemingly be tremendous against them, and I've already watched Sweden toy with the USA a week ago.

[SpiralHawk]

3. I choose the non-nuclear (more or less) option: USA over Japan

[joeybee12]

4. Looks like you might get your wish...nt

[Awsi Dooger]

6. I meant I was rooting for Japan over Sweden in the semis

As seemingly an easier target for the USA in the final.

Japan is 0-22 against the USA with a few ties, and 0-3 this year, while Sweden is 5-17 plus ties against the USA, but 2-0 this year.

That being said, Japan looked terrific today and certainly will dominate possession against the USA.

[jul61252]

8. +1

[KamaAina]

5. And Sweden just choked!!!

Also 3-1. It's ours for the taking!!!! :bounce:

[rpannier]

7. Both teams I wanted in the finals are in

Now, I'm torn.
I live in east Asia - Korea. Every win by an Asian team enhances the regions position for team selections in the next cup.
But, I am an American.
Either way I'm okay with the outcome.
But, right now I'm leaning toward Japan

edited because my keyboard can't spell

[Condem]

9. Forgive me. I'm not the biggest fan of woman's sports.

But I just gotta say this team is amazing to watch. That 'never say die' attitude is contagious. I saw it with South Cackalacky at the CWS on a smaller scale. It's not too many times soccer fans abroad start backing the US. I'll be tuned in Sunday at the ye olde Sports Column in IC. Just love 'em.

[El Supremo]

10. So we can add "misogynist" to your many faults?

That's OK. I'm not the biggest fan of soccer. What's the Greek for that?

[Condem]

11. Nah, El. It's just that in sports, women play with smaller balls than men.

I think the Greek term is 'aetna'. Like something's about to erupt.