Photo by ISIPhotos.com
By CAITLIN MURRAY
As the U.S. Men’s National Team stares down a make-or-break match against Germany, they will again be without one their best assets: Forward Jozy Altidore. As expected, Altidore will not be eligible Thursday, although SBI’s Franco Panizo reported from Brazil that coach Jurgen Klinsmann left the door open on Altidore returning if the U.S. advances beyond Germany.
Meanwhile, the 2014 World Cup shocks keep coming, and the final round of Group D had more than one. First, CONCACAF’s Costa Rica won the group and advanced to the Round of 16 for the first time since 1990. It was a shock for Italy, who were surprisingly sent home in a loss to Uruguay. But to add insult to injury, Uruguay’s Luis Suarez appeared to bite Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini — Suarez’s third time being caught biting opposing players — without being carded.
And Greece made some history in Group C, advancing to the knockout round for the first time ever whilst Colombia stayed perfect in their group.
Here is a rundown of all the stories featured on SBI today:
WORLD CUP:
Must-See Video: Suarez bites Chiellini during final Group D match
Uruguay controversially take down Italy to advance to knockout stage
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Diego Godín
Greece ousts Ivory Coast on last-minute penalty kick
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Georgios Samaras
Colombia routs Japan for perfect run through Group C
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: James Rodriguez
England finishes winless as Costa Rica tops Group D in scoreless draw
SBI World Cup Man of the Match: Giancarlo Gonzalez
Marquez turns back the clock to spur Mexico onto victory
World Cup Day 13: Your Running Commentary
World Cup Day 13: A Look Ahead
U.S. MEN’S NATIONAL TEAM:
Altidore won’t make return from hamstring injury vs. Germany
INTERNATIONAL SOCCER:
Tuesday Kickoff: Man United close in on Herrera; Barca make Kroos offer; and more