Round of 16. Match 2: Ghana 2-1 USA (a.e.t)

This match really got to life early on in the piece with Boateng scoring a goal on the five minute mark after powering forward and finishing with aplomb. Ghana then dominated proceedings with Ayew and Inkoom (playing his first game of the tournament) making inroads down the flanks. The USA did manage to have the best chances while they were looking for a way back into the game but Kingson was on song to save his team on numerous occasions. It was a quality performance from the Ghanaian goalkeeper.

Jonathan Mensah gave the USA a lifeline when he tripped Dempsey in the box and Donavon made no mistake from the spot. The complexion of the game thus changed with it becoming imperative for both teams to make the running. Both sides had chances - the USA again creating the better ones but Ghana looking more dangerous overall.

Extra-time started with a bang as Gyan put Ghana into the lead again, after only a couple of minutes, thrashing in a half-volley. Ghana hadn't scored from open play in the Group stage and hadn't scored more than one goal in a game for a long time...but in a game when it really mattered they had pulled out two goals of the highest quality. It was then a case of Ghana hanging on for the rest of the match - a task in which they succeeded.

Kingston, Boateng, Ayew and Gyan were the stand-outs for Ghana. Dempsey and Donavon were for the USA.

On a final note I just want to mention Altidore and how much I do not rate him. Every chance he has had at this World Cup I have expected him to miss - and he has. He is not a goalscorer, he can barely even score for Hull City. He also barges round the field like a right donkey...yes he is the Heskey of the USA, and I'm not sure why he is persisted with.