Italy 1 - 1 USA

An exciting, controversial match with the referee taking center stage that had me on the edge of my seat and my eyes glued to the tv. USA performed much better than their match against the Czechs. 60 seconds of madness for the Italians in the first half where they scored an own goal and had a player sent off. Further madness followed with the USA getting two players sent off. The first two sending offs were correct in my opinion but the last one was a bit harsh.

Gattuso's goal in the first half should have been allowed, Toni was clearly onside. The USA goal was rightly disallowed as McBride was offside and interfering with play. The Italians clearly lacked width as everything was going down the middle. The group has been blown wide open now with the Czech - Ghana match and this one with everyone in with a chance to advance to the second round.