2215: footballwatcher
The draw leaves us with fantastic games ahead - this group has taken group C's title to be "the group of Death" - now chances are open to all four teams. I would like to see Italy and Ghana go through, though.
2210: moorcat17
Even though we only have one point and need a miracle on Thursday, I'm definitely proud of the boys tonight, and we deserved all three points.
2205: austinspur
The US tactics was to be as physically aggressive as possible and put the Italians out of their stride, which actually worked. The Italians lost the plot, especially the disgraceful Di Rossi, and the whole game took on the feel of farce. It was big time ugly.
I wouldn't be surprised if the Ghana/USA match is an absolute bloodbath and the Italians and Czechs play out a tame draw.
2200: Kastansa
Bizarre but fascinating game! All cards were warranted, but blame FIFA, they are killing the game, not the referees.
2142: DOliver2006
This is an ugly game, but it's not because of the referee, it's because of both teams on the pitch playing some very physical football. We've played more than 16 games here, the referees have telegraphed the fact that they won't tolerate this, to the point of having FIFA directives to follow. If the teams haven't cottoned on to this by now, then they deserve every yellow and red card that has been issued (like today).
2140: ChicagoSoccer
The US has played a lot better today, except Eddie Pope, who got his pants beat off him defensively at least three times before being shown the door.
2130: NukeDukem
The American 'goal' was offside. The player was blocking Buffon's view, hence he was deemed to be interfering with play and active.
2120: awasp67
All three red cards were correct according to the FIFA rules for the tournament. If you don't like it blame Blatter et al. not the referee.
2107: stalteriisok
Which bit of the first two red cards was wrong? One was blatant and savage and one was ridiculous and late and a tackle that should never have been made.
And then the third red - all were for tackles that should NEVER have been made - the referee is okay and all good decisions.
2055: moorcat17
I thought Mastroeni's card was harsh, but whatever you feel about it, Italy is very lucky to be in 1-1 at half-time. Totally outplayed by the Americans, and the only attempt they even put near the net goes in. If the Americans had a bit better cutting edge in the final 3rd it could be 2-1 or 3-1, they've completely dominated the midfield.
Furthermore, I'd sub Pope out, he is a red card waiting to happen. I can see a third sending-off in this game by this referee.
2045: xenosys2005
What an awful USA challenge, any harder and that could have been an ankle breaker. Deserved the red card, but so did the Italians for the elbow earlier. Interesting game with 10 men each, lots of space to exploit. 2032: Keaneistheman
I can't beleive De Rossi did that - it was brutal and stupid and deserving of a red and that may be the end of his World Cup even if Italy qualify because he's sure to get a ban.
2030: Lord Summerisle
I'm not usually a USA supporter myself but the Italians haven't done anything to make me love them so far tonight.
2010: ArcticMonkay
I'm surprised Johnson isn't starting. He was the shining light for the USA last time, and was unlucky not to score I thought.
1950: mikel obi
Italy must win at all cost or they might miss out.
1940: tottino
Italy should win comfortably, although USA according to FIFA are a better side, ranked 5th whilst Italy are 12th!!!
1932: moorcat17
Unfortunately, Bruce the gutless wonder might have just lost this game for us before it has even started. He is shockingly trotting out the exact same 4-5-1 that laid an egg against the Czechs.
1930: tooredformyshirt
I think the USA may get something from the game. Perhaps a point. This will leave the group wide open.
