By CAITLIN MURRAY
In the aftermath of the U.S.’s tough draw to Portugal, the team and media alike were eager to shift focus to the Americans’ final group opponent: Germany. Whichever team wins the USA-Germany matchup is guaranteed to advance while the other has to hope the Ghana-Portugal game falls in their favor. But if USA-Germany ends in a draw, both teams are guaranteed to move on. And so, coach Jurgen Klinsmann faced repeated questions from reporters over whether he’d call his old friend, Germany manager Joachim Löw. SBI’s Franco Panizo in Brazil reported Klinsmann has been steadfast in denying he’d consider a gentleman’s agreement to settle for a tie.
No agreement of any kind needed for Mexico, however, who secured their spot in the knockout round on Monday with a rout of Croatia. Mexico has enjoyed a World Cup where they have looked like a dominant force, even as bad officiating served as obstacles along the way. They will be joined by Brazil, a team that finished Monday in the top of their group to no one’s surprise.
And in Major League Soccer news, the Portland Timbers decided to hold onto a good thing and signed Nigerian forward Fanendo Adi to a contract after a six-week loan.
Here is a rundown of all the stories featured on SBI today:
U.S. MEN’S NATIONAL TEAM
Klinsmann adamant USMNT won’t play for draw vs. Germany
Yedlin delivers solid performance in surprise World Cup cameo
USMNT disappointed, but staying positive after tying Portugal
USA-Portugal match breaks TV record for most-watched U.S. soccer match
WORLD CUP:
Mexico routs Croatia to book place in World Cup Round of 16
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Rafa Márquez
Brazil cruise to group-clinching victory over Cameroon
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Neymar
Spain overwhelms Australia, concludes disappointing World Cup with a win
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: David Villa
Fer, Depay lead the Netherlands past Chile to finish top of Group B
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Arjen Robben
World Cup Day 12: Your Running Commentary
World Cup Day 12: A Look Ahead
INTERNATIONAL SOCCER:
Monday Kickoff: Ghana FA deny match-fixing claims; Messi handed tax bill; and more
MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER:
Timbers purchase and sign Adi as Designated Player
NATIONAL WOMEN’S SOCCER LEAGUE
NWSL Week 11: A Look Back