By CAITLIN MURRAY
Sunday was game day for the U.S. Men’s National Team and there was no bigger story than the U.S. drawing to Portugal in the second round of Group G, the so-called World Cup “Group of Death.” But more than the score, what stood out was the brutal ending for the Americans, who let Portugal equalize in the 95th minute on what was effectively the last play of the match. As the group stands, the U.S., Portugal, Germany and Ghana are all still alive in the group.
From Brazil, SBI’s Franco Panizo reported the Americans were still positive in their post-game reaction — after all, a draw to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal was a fine result, despite the harsh ending. SBI named Jermaine Jones the Man of the Match for his top-notch play on both sides of the ball and a beautiful long-range goal.
In other group play, Belgium forged ahead with their World Cup campaign, beating Russia to secure an early place in the knockout rounds. And Algeria were able to top South Korea in a wild back-and-forth goal fest.
Here is a rundown of all the stories featured on SBI today:
U.S. MEN’S NATIONAL TEAM:
Last-gasp goal from Varela sees USMNT settle for discouraging draw vs. Portugal
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Jermaine Jones
World Cup: USA vs. Portugal (SBI Live Match Commentary)
Portugal enter must-win match vs. USMNT ravaged by injuries
WORLD CUP:
Belgium score late winner to beat Russia, advance to knockout rounds
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Divock Origi
Algeria outlast South Korea in wild six-goal thriller
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Islam Slimani
World Cup Day 11: Your Running Commentary
World Cup Day 11: A Look Ahead