By CAITLIN MURRAY
Fittingly for one of the most unpredictable World Cups perhaps ever, the so-called “Group of Death” has turned into a group of surprises. Ghana put up a fierce battle against favorite Germany to force a 2-2 stalemate in a wild second half. The result keeps Ghana alive and forces Germany to wait for the third round of the group before knowing if they’ll advance.
For the U.S. Men’s National Team, the Germany-Ghana result presents an opportunity for the Americans to guarantee a place in the Round of 16 if they can eke out a win against a strong but bruised Portugal side. As the USMNT prepared for Sunday’s match against Portugal, players said they feel ready and know what they have to do to win, SBI’s Franco Panizo reported from Brazil.
And on the women’s side, after skipping Thursday’s U.S. Women’s National Team friendly against France, goalkeeper Hope Solo was arrested in the early morning hours Saturday for an alleged assault at a family party. The incident means she will surely miss Sunday’s Seattle Reign FC match in Western New York but it’s unclear how it will affect her season beyond that.
Here is a rundown of all the stories featured on SBI today:
WORLD CUP:
Four-goal second half ends in stalemate between Ghana and Germany
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Asamoah Gyan
Late Messi goal gives Argentina win over Iran, place in knockout round
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Lionel Messi
Nigeria wins with controversial goal, Bosnia and Herzegovina eliminated
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Vincent Enyeama
World Cup Day 10: Your Running Commentary
World Cup Day 10: A Look Ahead
U.S. MEN’S NATIONAL TEAM
Who should the USMNT start vs. Portugal?
The SBI Show: Episode 149 (Previewing USA vs. Portugal)
USMNT face Portugal with Round of 16 place within reach
U.S. WOMEN’S NATIONAL TEAM
USWNT’s Solo arrested in alleged assault at her home
MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER:
Orlando City coach Heath on Kaka: ‘We hope we can get it done’