[Locke]

The US is taking strides in the right direction. Dont get me wrong, I am one of those people who doesnt want the US to become a contender. Simply because I really dont like their style of play.

However, that being said, their game against Brazil was great, regardless of what I think of their 'style of play' they made that game entertaining. They played a really good game on most fronts, their defense got lucky a lot and their keeper should have been wearing #34. The Brazilians didnt play a great game, but man did they give it their all in that second half. You have to remember, these are kids. This is their first international game at this level. They were down, and they're not used to that, and they lost their composure and rushed their plays. They got desperate and the US stayed strong.

Brazil is a team that mails it in to most competitions, and GirlySports, I agree with you there is a significant amount of arrogance comprised within this fact. I cant fault you for disliking that. As a Brazil fan, I understand some of the crap that goes on, it makes it harder to cheer for them, as their losses are taken a lot harder by their fans, but thems the breaks. Its all worth it when they post wins in the fashion of which they are capable. For example, tonights Copa America win against Chile. That was a Brazil game. Chile had their a$$es handed to them tonight, but ask their fans whether that was a great game or not, they'll tell you it was amazing. Thats Brazil.

Locke.

BTW, I do have a somewhat anit-American soccer bias. I am fully ready to admit it. I do however give credit where credit is due, ad the US won that game and won it well. I did think that their second goal was something of a lucky bounce, it was a tough shot to take after that bounce and it was a chance they finished. Thats how games are won. Well done USA.