Amazing what a difference a single goal, "at the death," makes to our thoughts about the game.
Until then, for two highly-regarded teams, it really was a bit of a stinker. Our first goal was tainted -- an "own" goal. Their first goal was more than just tainted -- it stank on several levels. And their second goal was arguably offside -- although Shannon Boxx is really far too experienced a player to stop playing BEFORE the presumed offside whistle (that never came).
As a commentary, the German fans took OUR side, booing and whistling the 5-time POY, Marta, and her teammates, for their antics, along with an officiating crew that brought back memories of Mr. Koulibaly in South Africa.
All of which went by the boards with a single, masterful service, a textbook finish, and a round of PKs.
Yes, it was a triumph of "the spirit" and the Americans' "never say die attitude." If anything like that level can be maintained in the semis, the anticipated rematch with Sweden could end up being a genuine showcase for the women's game and soccer in general.
