World Cup Wrap-Up Matchday 17

Uruguay 2-1 South Korea

8' URU Luis Suarez (1-0)

38' KOR Kim J.W. (YC)

68' KOR Lee C.Y. (1-1)

69' KOR Cha D.R. (YC)

80' URU Luis Suarez (2-1)

85' KOR Cho Y.H. (YC)

This was a game many thought the Koreans were far superior in, but thats not the case. The Reds looked rather listless and a tad unsure of themselves in the first half, and found themselves a goal down for much of it. As the second half progressed, Uruguay became more and more content to sit back and defend, and eventually the Koreans broke through on Uruguay's first defensive miscue, and coincidentally, their first goal conceded of the World Cup. While it looked like the tide was shifting South Korea's favor, Uruguay immediately found their stride and Luis Suarez struck an absolutely gorgeous ball in the the top corner (in the running for best of the tournament), and controlled the game for the remaining 10 minutes.

URU Verdict: I knew Uruguay would be a threatening team going in with the likes of Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez spearheading the attack, which is as good a strike force among any in the world. However they have been stingy on defense (led by skipper Diego Lugano and Jorge Fucile) and the midfield has opened up the game for their attack, and has shown non-stop workhorsemanship, especially from Perez, Alcaraz, and Pereira. So essentially, all the makings of a dark horse team looking to make a shock run. Uruguay will play Ghana in the second knockout phase.

KOR Verdict: A well fought game from the Koreans, showing a lot of people that they deserved to advance, and an unlucky draw to play Uruguay meant that the Koreans were in a little over their heads. They were the better team a majority of the second half until they scored. The Reds showed they have a lot more talent, speed, and teamwork than they let on, so it will be interesting to see how South Korea performs in future world cups.

Men of the Match: Diego Perez (URU), Luis Suarez (URU)

United States 1-2 Ghana (AET)

5' GHA Boateng (0-1)

7' USA Clark (YC)

17' USA Cherundolo (YC)

61' GHA Mensah (YC)

62' USA Donovan (pen) (1-1)

68' USA Bocanegra (YC)

90+2' GHA Ayew (YC)

93' GHA Gyan (1-2)

A typical performance from the Americans where they gave up an early goal, were lucky to escape into halftime only down by one goal, and then fail to score more than one in the second half. A very good performance from Ghana, as they were very creative on the ball, unlike their previous games in group D.

USA Verdict: Another typical performance from the Yanks, down early, equalize, fail to get the true breakthrough though dominating the second half. The Americans were forced to make early substitutions, which hurt their chances as the game moved into extra time. Clint Dempsey showed he is a true threat to anyone, but I feel Tim Howard's reputation might be hurt a little after this game.

GHA Verdict: A much improved performance from the Black Stars, as they showed what they are capable of without Michael Essien. Very creative, very fast, Ghana played like each of the African sides has failed to do, and becomes the third African side to reach the second knockout round, and will play Uruguay.

Men of the Match: Benny Feilhaber (USA), Clint Dempsey (USA)