"Landon Donovan saves America!!!!!" by Ronald Carthen

Thank you Landon Donovan for scoring the game-winning goal in the 91st minute (stoppage time) to help USA defeat Algeria 1-0 and advance to the second round of the World Cup. Not only did they advance, they finished on top in Group C. This was the first time they won a group since 1930. Can you believe this is their first World Cup win in eight years? It was a long time coming but man it was worth.

It didn't matter if you were drunk at a bar or watching it at home, we were all nervous in the last few minutes of the game. I have to admit, when England defeated Slovenia 1-0, I thought time was running out for the Americans and they were going to be eliminated again. I'm so happy that four minutes of extra time was added on in this game. It didn't take them long to realize that they had to hurry up and score right now.

Donovan brought the ball upfield and Jozy Altidore's shot on the breakaway was tipped by Clint Dempsey into Algeria goalkeeper Rais Bolihi. Then all of our prayers were answered when Dononvan had the rebound and scored from eight yards to give us the biggest moment in soccer in years or maybe ever.

Once the whistle blew and the game was over, you saw the emotion from players, coaches, and fans as we rejoiced and celebrate an amazing victory that you can tell your grandchildren for years to come. It just feels like the team and all of us won this game. While the team prepared in South Africa, we set our alarms to get out of bed and make a sacrifice to wait almost two hours to finally see a goal. It didn't matter if we were at work, at a bar getting drunk with your friends, or called your job and pretend you were sick, we all believe that this team can win this game.

I'm not sure what will happen when they face the runner-up of Group D (Germany, Ghana, Serbia, or Australia) on Saturday, but we all hope this team can get closer to the golden ball. They made it to the quarterfinals in 2002, but that was their best finish in the WC since 1930, when they finished in third place. From this point on they'll be the underdog for most of their matches, but it could be a good thing because expectations won't be so high. This team has the potential to be the best team we've had in years, but we have to play well in the Round of 16.

I'm so glad we don't have to sit through any more draws this weekend. This is the way I like it win or go home and I sure hope the Americans win and we continue to party.