USA rolls past Czechia to finish Group Play 3-0

Photo courtesy of USA Basketball
Used with permission.

By Chris Price
Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved

BERLIN, GERMANY (September 7, 2026)  The United States women’s basketball team finished group play at the FIBA Women’s World Cup with a dominant 105-64 win over Czechia on Monday night at Berlin Arena.

The victory improved the USA to 3-0 in Group D and marked the Americans’ third straight World Cup win over Czechia. The United States now moves on to the quarterfinals, where it will face either Hungary or Japan on Thursday, Sept. 10.

After a tough offensive game against Italy, the USA came out firing against Czechia.

The Americans scored 29 points in the first quarter while holding Czechia to 15. The 29 points were the USA’s highest-scoring quarter of the tournament. The team shot 50 percent from the field in the opening period and made four 3-pointers.

The strong start continued throughout the game. The USA shot 52.5 percent from the field, making 42 of 80 shots. The Americans also finished with seven 3-pointers and 32 assists.

All 12 USA players scored at least once, showing the team’s depth and unselfish style of play. Five players finished with at least three assists.

Breanna Stewart (No. 10, shown above) led the USA with 19 points, seven rebounds and six assists. She also recorded a steal and a blocked shot. Stewart scored 11 points in the first quarter and had 13 points, six rebounds and six assists by halftime.

Stewart also continued her impressive World Cup record. She has now won all 23 games she has played in the tournament.

Napheesa Collier added 12 points, six rebounds, two assists and a steal. The game marked her first World Cup, and her 12 points were a personal best in major international competition.

The USA defense was just as impressive. Czechia shot only 32.8 percent from the field and made just three of 30 3-point attempts.

With the group stage complete, the USA will now turn its attention to the quarterfinals and another step toward a World Cup title.

TexSport Publications senior photographer interviewed on CW39 in Houston

By Chris Price

Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (July 25, 2026) TexSport Publications senior writer Darla Tamulitis was interviewed in CW39 in Houston about her photography career and being selected by FIFA to photography the 2026 World Cup in Houston. Click on the video below to view the interview.

USA vs Australia: World Cup showdown in Seattle

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography,
Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON (June 18, 2026)  As the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues in the group stage, the United States men’s national team faces a pivotal clash against Australia on Friday, June 19, at Lumen Field in Seattle. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. CDT with both sides entering the match with three points after impressive opening victories. The United States thrashed Paraguay 4-1, while the Socceroos edged Turkey 2-0. A win here could virtually secure advancement from Group D.

Mauricio Pochettino’s Americans boast a dynamic squad blending European experience and youthful energy. Christian Pulisic remains the key player for the USA, capable of moments of magic from the wing  Folarin Balogun has already announced himself with a brace against Paraguay, showcasing his talent and skill. Midfielders Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie provide solid play, while defenders like Chris Richards and Sergiño Dest add quickness at the back. Goalkeeper Matt Turner offers reliability between the posts. 

Australia, coached by Tony Popovic, arrives battle-hardened and opportunistic. Captain Mathew Ryan anchors a solid defense, while veteran Mathew Leckie brings World Cup experience. Also contributing for the Soceroos are forward Nestory Irankunda and winger Awer Mabil.

History favors the USMNT slightly in recent encounters. The teams have met sparingly, with the USA winning 2-1 in a October 2025 friendly and holding a narrow edge overall (roughly 2 wins to 1 in modern friendlies). No prior World Cup meeting adds uniqueness to the rivalry.

This match shapes up as a tactical battle between Pochettino’s possession-based approach and Australia’s compact discipline. The USA should control territory and create chances through width and Balogun’s movement, but must guard against Australia’s set-piece threat and rapid breaks. 

Early goals could settle nerves for the hosts in what feels like a must-win on home turf. Expect intensity, physical duels, and high drama.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Day 2 Recap

Logo courtesy of FIFA, Used with permission.

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 13, 2026) Day 2 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, on Friday, June 12, saw two exciting matches as co-hosts Canada and the United States opened their tournament campaigns.

The day began in Toronto, where Canada battled Bosnia and Herzegovina to a 1-1 draw in Group B action. Bosnia and Herzegovina struck first when Jovo Lukic scored to give the visitors an early advantage. Canada pushed forward throughout the second half and finally found the equalizer through veteran striker Cyle Larin. The goal earned Canada its first point of the tournament and kept the hosts in the race for a spot in the knockout stage. Both teams finished the day with one point in Group B.

Later in Los Angeles, the United States delivered one of the strongest performances of the tournament so far with a convincing 4-1 victory over Paraguay in Group D. Forward Folarin Balogun led the attack with two goals, while the Americans controlled the match from the opening whistle. Paraguay managed a second-half goal, but the United States quickly regained control and added another late score to seal the win. The result puts the Americans at the top of Group D after the opening round of matches.

After two days of competition, North America's host nations have enjoyed a strong start, with Mexico and the United States earning victories and Canada collecting a valuable point.

Mexico opens World Cup with victory over South Africa

Logo courtesy of FIFA Used with permission

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO (June 11, 2026) The 2026 FIFA World Cup began with a memorable night in Mexico City as Mexico national football team defeated South Africa national football team 2-0 in the tournament’s opening match.

Playing in front of a packed home crowd, Mexico gave its fans plenty to celebrate. The hosts took control early and never looked back, earning three important points to start Group A play. Julián Quiñones opened the scoring in the first half after taking advantage of a defensive mistake by South Africa. The goal energized the crowd and gave Mexico an early boost.

South Africa battled hard but struggled to create scoring chances against Mexico’s organized defense. The visitors faced an even bigger challenge early in the second half when midfielder Sphephelo Sithole received a red card, reducing South Africa to 10 players.

Mexico continued to push forward and found a second goal in the 67th minute. Veteran striker Raúl Jiménez scored with a powerful header to double the lead and put the match out of reach. The goal was an emotional moment for Jiménez, who celebrated passionately with teammates and supporters.

The match became increasingly physical late in the game. South Africa's Themba Zwane was sent off in the 84th minute, leaving his team with only nine players. Mexico also finished with 10 men after defender César Montes received a red card in stoppage time.

The victory gives Mexico a strong start in the expanded 48-team World Cup. Next, Mexico will face South Korea, while South Africa looks to recover against the Czech Republic as the group stage continues.

Houston prepares for World Cup 2026

Photo courtesy of FIFA Media Hub, Used with permission.

By Robert Kelly
Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 5, 2026) Houston is set to take center stage in the global spotlight as it prepares to host matches for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. As one of the selected host cities in the United States, Houston will welcome teams and fans from around the world, bringing an exciting wave of international culture, competition, and economic activity to the region.

Matches will be held at NRG Stadium (renamed to Houston Stadium for the World Cup), a world-class venue known for hosting major sporting events, including the Super Bowl and international soccer exhibitions. With a seating capacity of over 70,000, the stadium is expected to be filled with passionate fans representing a wide range of countries, creating an electric atmosphere throughout each match.

City officials and organizers have been working for years to prepare Houston for this global event. Improvements to transportation, infrastructure, and public spaces are already underway to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for visitors. Local businesses, hotels, and restaurants are also gearing up for a significant increase in tourism, anticipating a major economic boost.

Beyond the matches themselves, Houston plans to host fan festivals, cultural events, and community celebrations, giving residents and visitors alike the chance to engage with the spirit of the World Cup. These activities will highlight Houston’s diversity and hospitality, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most dynamic cities in the United States.

For soccer fans in Texas and across the country, the upcoming World Cup games in Houston represent a rare opportunity to witness the world’s most popular sport at its highest level without leaving the United States. The countdown has begun, and excitement continues to build as Houston prepares to play its part on the world stage.

On this day in sports history: November 19, 1989

(Video courtesy of US Soccer via Youtube.com)

By Chris Price
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD (November 19, 2023) On this day in 1989, on November 19, the United States men's national soccer team (USMNT) downed the Soca Warriors of Trinidad and Tobago by the score of 1-0 to qualify for the FIFA World Cup in 1990. The USMNT had not qualified for the World Cup since 1950.  The Stars and Stripes needed a win to advance and the goal by midfielder Paul Caligiuro in the 31st minute sent the United States to their first World Cup in 40 years. The USA lost all three games in their group; Czechoslovakia 5-1, Italy 1-0, and Austria 2-1.

FIFA Women's World Cup Preview: Portugal and Republic of Ireland

By Jennifer Edwards
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

AUSTRALIA-NEW ZEALAND (July 24, 2023) The fifth and sixth teams to debut at the FIFA Women’s World Cup are Portugal and the Republic of Ireland. 

Portugal 

While the men’s national team are a mainstay at the World Cup since 1998, the women’s national team are starting their road in the World Cup this year. They participated in the Women’s Euro in 2017 and 2022 being coached by Francisco Neto. The Selecção das Quinas player to watch is Dolores Silva. The midfielder is a three time Portuguese Cup winner and a four time Portuguese National Football Championship winner. The Portuguese women's team will have quite the challenge from the Netherlands right out of the gate during their group stage play. Portugal is currently ranked 22nd in the world and they are looking to continue the march to the top of the standings. 

Republic of Ireland 

The Girls in Green punched their ticket to the Women’s World Cup by beating Scotland in a 1-0 victory in the European play-offs. The 23rd ranked team, behind Portugal, are coached by former Houston Dash head coach Vera Pauw. Another Houston connection to the Women’s World Cup is through Denise O’Sullivan, former Houston Dash player. The Girls in Green are captained by Katie McCabe, who plays winger, forward, fullback, and wingback. This is a very solid team that played their first game against Australia before a sold out, record breaking crowd.

Hoffman and Meyers Taylor take silver medal in women’s bobsled World Cup

Photo courtesy of
USA Bobsled & Skelton
 Used with permission 

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2021 All Rights Reserved

ST. MORITZ, SWITZLAND (January 17, 2021) Texan Sylvia Hoffman (shown right), along with teammate Elana Meyers Taylor, established a new St. Moritz start record en route to the silver medal in this morning’s women’s bobsled World Cup race. Hoffman, who calls Arlington, Texas her home, manned the brakes with Hoffman driving the two-person sled.

The duo powered the BMW-branded sled off the block with the fastest start time (5.44 seconds), with Meyers Taylor navigated the track to the finish with the time of 1:08.56, good enough for fourth place. Meyers Taylor and Hoffman were third off the start in the opening heat, which is a disadvantage on the all-natural track. The track speeds up throughout the day, making a later draw more desirable. 

 Hoffman stated, in a prepared press release from USA Bobsled & Skeleton:

“I feel good about our start times and my runs. There are still some things I need to work on, but I’m happy with today’s finish.”

Meyers Taylor and Hoffman laid it all on the line in run two, breaking the start record in the second heat with a push time of 5.42 seconds. Meyers Taylor threaded together a nearly flawless run of 1:08.06 to temporarily hold the track record. Only one team, Germany’s Stephanie Schneider and Leonie Fiebig, could surpass the Americans. Meyers Taylor and Hoffman secured the silver medal with a combined time of 2:16.62, a mere 0.08 seconds from the Germans.

Hoffman added,

“I just want to do the best I can. I’m going out there and doing my best, pushing as hard as I can and getting into the best riding position. I’m excited every day and I can’t wait to get to our next race to lay it all down again. Hopefully next time we’ll come away with gold.”

FIFA Women's World Cup...One Year Ago...A Look Back

Photo courtesy U.S Soccer WNT via Twitter.com

By Jennifer Edwards

Copyright 2020 All Rights Reserved

FRIENDSWOOD, TEXAS (June 7, 2020) One year ago today, sports fans were not yearning for any sports coverage they could get. It was the start to the Women's World Cup 2019 and all the world was watching. The Cup coverage could be seen almost all day long and was a soccer fan's fantasy come to life. It put women’s soccer front and center and the ladies did not disappoint. From Marta’s performance with the Brazilian Women’s team and her story of perseverance to make the team, to Amandine Henry scoring the opening goal to kick off the tournament and put her French National Team on the board, the tournament was on fire from the start. While the United States Women’s National team dominated the games they played, many amazing stories emerged of teams scraping enough funding to try to win a bid to the tournament and making that bid a reality. Thailand is one of those standouts. They were unevenly matched with the US powerhouse and lost 13-0. But they showed the world that they can still keep their head up and plan to return to the next World Cup with the lessons learned. In the 52 matches that were played there were 146 goals awarded for an average of two goals a game. Total attendance was over one million people. Those fans got to see the Lionesses’ Ellen White become one of the three top scorers alongside the US’s Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe all scoring six goals each. While US soccer fans wait for the MLS and NSWL to return to play, looking back at the memories of last year are always amazing.

USA powers their way to fourth Women's World Cup title

By Jennifer Edwards
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

LYON, FRANCE (July 7, 2019) While the fireworks ended on the night of July 4th in France, the true fireworks show happened on July 7th. The United States Women’s National Soccer Team took on the blazing hot Netherlands squad by the score of 2-0 in the showdown for the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup trophy. The two teams were very well matched and very deserving of playing in the championship game that the world was watching.   

Again, Megan Rapinoe (shown left) scored the opening goal on penalty kick. The penalty was drawn on a Dutch player for kicking Alex Morgan in the shoulder. This goal is historic in the fact that Rapinoe is the oldest player to score a goal in the final game, as she is 34 years old. Love her or hate her'; she put this team on her back and carried them to the finals with her penalty kicks. So this goal should come as no surprise to anyone. The second goal came from newcomer Rose Lavelle. Lavelle is one of the younger players at age 24. Her goal solidified the US lead and the Americans didn’t let off the gas. The Dutch required every skill that the U.S.A. defense had to keep the Dutch from scoring.  

While the Dutch came in second, their goalkeeper, Sari van Veenendall, made numerous spectacular saves during the entire match to keep the scoring to a minimum. Unfortunately, like many other teams that came up against the US powerhouse, they didn’t have enough to win.   

The entire tournament has done so much for women’s soccer as a whole. The world supported these amazing athletes. All the athletes ask is that you support them when they return to their respective clubs in America and overseas. Pack out the stadiums and enjoy women’s soccer. Thank you to all the teams that participated and showed their spirit, culture and love for the game. They are inspiring the next generation of soccer stars in the making. See you again in four years to see if the United States still has what it takes to put a fifth star on their crest.

Megan Rapinoe was a standout for the United States vs. France

Photo courtsey of
United States Olympic Committee
via Flickr

By Jennifer Edwards
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

LYON, FRANCE (July 2, 2019) Love her or hate her, Megan Rapinoe (shown right) was the star of the United States vs. France quarter final match in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019. Rapinoe is not one to shy away from the spotlight off the pitch, but her actions on the pitch allowed the USWNT to advance to the semi-finals. 

Rapinoe, one of the captains of the USWNT, is a midfielder with a ton of speed and ability to read a play and be in the right place at the right time. She is also spot on for penalty and free kicks. Rapinoe took both kicks and scored both times to keep the game at 2-1. When looking at the stats for the game, the USWNT did not dominate the game. They were behind most of the time. The defense stepped up during the game to shut down France, but were having a tough time doing so. 

Crystal Dunn, now a defender, had a stand out game. She frustrated the French offensive line many times and stepped up her game to create passing opportunities. That being said, the USWNT should not have won that game. Looking at the official statistics the US only had possession of the ball 39% of the time to France’s 61%. 

The US made the most of that 39%, but it was a tough and close match. France had 20 shots on goal with 5 being on target to the US’s 10 shots with 8 being on target. Goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher saw more action during this game than all the other games combined. It should be noted that the US did not score of these attempts. 

The US will face off against England Tuesday, July 2 at 2 p.m. in the semi-finals. It will be interesting to see how both teams fare. They are both strong, hard-hitting teams known for their speed and tenacity.

USA falls to Ukraine 2-1 in FIFA U-20 World Cup

By Chris Price
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

BIELSKA BIALA, POLAND (May 24, 2019) The United States U-20 National Team dropped a close match to Ukraine by the score of 2-1 in the opening match for both teams in the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Playing in Group D at Bielska-Biala Stadium in Bielska Biala, Poland, the USA evened the score in the 32nd minute on a goal by  Brandon Servania (FC Dallas). Ukraine scored first, in the 26th minute, off the foot of Serhii Buletsa.

Denys Popov headed in the go-ahead goal, in the 51st minute to secure the American's defeat. The United States will next face Nigeria, who downed Qatar 4-0 in their first round match) on Monday, May 27, at  Bielska-Biala Stadium.

Head Coach Jill Ellis announces USWNT roster for 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup

By Jennifer Edwards
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

SEABROOK, TEXAS (May 8,  2019) On May 1, 2019, Women’s National Team (USWNT) head coach Jill Ellis announced her roster of 23 players selected to represent the United States in the FIFA Women’s World Cup that will be played this summer. This announcement comes as almost no surprise to fans who have followed the USWNT during the last World Cup where the United States won the tournament for a third time in USWNT history. 

Ellis made her selection based on the friendlies that the US played as well as monitoring the NWSL action. Let’s break this down by positions: 

Goalkeepers: Ellis selected two veterans in Ashlyn Harris and Alyssa Naeher. Naeher has been Ellis’ go-to keeper since the fiery departure of Hope Solo. She has also called on World Cup rookie Adrianna Franch, who has made quite a name for herself around the NWSL as one of the premier keepers in the league. 

Defenders: Assisting the goalkeepers is are seven world class defenders. They will be anchored by Ali Krieger, Kelley O’Hara and Becky Sauerbrunn who all have 3 time appearances in World Cup action. Ellis selected four rookies in Abby Dahlkemper, Tierna Davidson, Crystal Dunn and Emily Sonnett. Krieger was the surprise, while die-hard fans were rooting for her return to USWNT soccer, seeking that elusive 100th cap. 

Midfielders: This position lacks the depth of veterans as the defenders and forwards have. They are anchored by Morgan Brian and Julie Ertz who both have two previous appearances in World Cup play. Rookies are Lindsey Horan, Rose Lavelle, Allie Long, and Samantha Mewis. Do not discount the rookies who have seen international action previously. Horan played for Paris Saint-Germain for four years prior to joining the Portland Thorns. 

Forwards: Of all the positions this group has the most returners. Carli Lloyd will return for her fourth World Cup, while Tobin Heath, Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe will return for their third WC appearances. Christen Press will see her second World Cup dreams being realized and rookies Jessica McDonald, Mallory Pugh are the newcomers hoping to hoist the trophy for the first time. 

Ellis stated at the roster press release “...it’s a group that has the talent, confidence, experience and desire to help us win the World Cup.” 

All eyes will turn to France where the Women’s World Cup will begin June 7, 2019 and run until July 7, 2019.

St. Moritz hosts final European World Cup race of the 2018-2019 season

ST. MORITZ, SWITZERLAND (Jan. 23, 2019) The bobsled and skeleton World Cup makes its sixth stop on the only natural track in the world in St. Moritz, Switzerland from Friday to Sunday. This is the final European race before the tour moves to North America.

Justin Olsen (San Antonio, Texas) is expected to have a new crew combination of Kyler Allison (Austin, Texas), Adrian Adams (Reidsville, N.C.) and Chris Kinney (Stockbridge, Ga.). Williamson from Bascue's four-man team will push with Olsen in the two-man race.

The final races of the skeleton-only Intercontinental Cup series will take place Thursday, Jan. 24 and Friday, Jan. 25 in Lake Placid, N.Y. The tour titles will be announced following competitions on Friday. 

Russia dominates Saudi Arabia 5-0 in first match of 2018 World Cup

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2018 All Rights Reserved

MOSCOW, RUSSIA (June 14, 2018) In the first match of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, host nation Russia completed dominated Saudi Arabia by the score of 5-0 at Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. Russia, 70th in the latest FIFA rankings, scores two goals in added time to down Al-Suqour (The Falcons), whose highest placing in World Cup history was twelfth in 1994.

Sbornaya, (The National Team) took a 2-0 lead into the locker room at halftime off the feet of  Iury Gazinsky (12th minute) and  Denis Cheryshev. (43rd minute). Arten Dzyuba also added an insurance goal in the 71st minute. The 3-0 lead was sufficient for the win after regulation, however the Russians kept the offensive pressure on the Saudis; scoring two addition goals in added time at the end of the game. Chershev scored his second goal of tournament (90th minute + 1 minute) to push the score to 4-0. Three minutes later, Aleksandr Golovin put the nail in the coffin of Saudi Arabia, to close out the scoring.

Next up for Russia is a June 19 match-up against Egypt  at Saint Petersburg Stadium in St. Petersburg while the Saudis will play Uruguay on June 20 at Kazan Stadium in Kazan.

U.S. RALLIES TO EARN 2-2 DRAW AGAINST SLOVENIA

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA (June 18, 2010) The U.S. Men's National Team played Slovenia to an epic 2-2 draw in its second Group C match at the 2010 FIFA World Cup. After falling behind 2-0 in the first half, an early second-half strike from Landon Donovan and a fantastic finish off a half-volley from Michael Bradley evened the score and earned the USA a critical point before another boisterous pro-U.S. crowd of 45,573 at Ellis Park.

The result puts the USA’s destiny in their own hands, with a win in their final Group C match on Wednesday, June 23, against Algeria at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria automatically earning the Americans a spot in the knockout phase. With Algeria’s 0-0 draw with England in the other Group C match, the U.S. sits in second place in the group tied with the English on two points, but ahead in the standings based on goals scored (three for the United States and one for England). The U.S. can still advance with a draw against Algeria if England loses to Slovenia or if England draws and the U.S. maintains an advantage in total goals scored.

“I think this team has shown that it keeps fighting until the end and we have now had the experience of pushing games when we’re behind,” said U.S. head coach Bob Bradley. “It’s a credit to the mentality of the players and to the fact that they’re going to fight for 90 minutes every game. We have a third match where we still have the chance to determine our ability to move into the final round.”

The USA comeback began just three-minutes into the second half, with a world-class strike from Donovan, who roofed a shot past Slovenian goalkeeper Samir Handanovic from six yards out after dribbling freely into the right side of the box from a tight angle. Donovan was freed into the area on a perfectly placed pass from the halfway line by standout defender Steve Cherundolo that eluded the Slovenian defense.

After several goal mouth chances for the U.S. throughout the half, the USA finally cashed in for goal number two with one of the most skillful tallies in team history. The goal came in the 82nd minute on a lunging half-volley toe-poke from Bradley, who was set-up in the right side of the penalty area, by a perfectly weighted knocked-down header from Jozy Altidore. The big U.S. forward got his head on a service sent by Donovan from midfield and put it right into the path of the charging Bradley. The ussoccer.com Man of the Match scored his eighth career goal, and his first in a World Cup.

The inspiring U.S. comeback could have netted the team all three points just a few minutes later, but Maurice Edu’s volley into the back of the net on a perfect free kick from Donovan in the 85th minute was disallowed by Malian referee Koman Coulibaly for an apparent foul.

Including Edu, four players made their World Cup debuts for the United States in the match. Edu and midfielder Benny Feilhaber were halftime substitutes that helped spark the U.S. attack. Late sub Herculez Gomez and starter Jose Torres also appeared in their first-ever World Cup matches.

For Donovan, the match was his 10th all-time World Cup appearance, moving him to within one game of the all-time U.S. record (11, Cobi Jones and Earnie Stewart), and his goal was the third of his World Cup career (tied with Brian McBride for second best all-time, just one behind Bert Patenaude). He also became the third player in U.S. history to score in two different World Cups (2002 and 2010), joining McBride and Clint Dempsey.

The first half was a difficult one for the United States, who struggled early to break down the compact Slovenians. Slovenia benefitted greatly from a 13th minute goal from Valter Birsa, who hit a perfectly placed strike into the upper right side of the goal from 27 yards out after finding a soft pocket directly in front of the U.S. backline. The shot from Birsa gave goalkeeper Tim Howard no chance.

In the 42nd minute, Slovenia created its second goal on a fast break following some sustained pressure from the United States. On the goal, forward Milivoje Novakovic beat U.S. defender Oguchi Onyewu’s offside trap by playing a perfect ball into the run of midfielder Zlatan Ljubijankic, who tucked his shot easily into the center of the goal underneath an onrushing Howard.

Prior to that goal, the U.S. had been all over the Slovenian net. In the 36th minute, Jozy Altidore was fouled at the top of the box on a dangerous U.S. attack, and Torres expertly hit the ensuing free kick to the near post causing Handanovic to make a diving save. On the corner kick that followed that save a clearance by Slovenia was headed tantalizingly close by defender Jay DeMerit from the top of the box but it flew just outside the left post.

Just three minutes later, forward Robbie Findley was given a yellow card after a dangerous U.S. corner kick when he was whistled for a phantom handball on a cross that ricocheted off his upper chest. With two yellow cards in two games, Findley will be suspended for the USA’s final Group C match against Algeria.

Two minutes after that, the USA’s best attack of the first half preceded Slovenia’s fast-break goal. With a nice build-up in midfield, it was Findley who nicely controlled a ball in traffic at the top of the area and found Dempsey overlapping into the right side of the penalty box. Dempsey took one touch and then slid a pass across the goal mouth that was cleared out of play by defender Miso Brecko just before Donovan could tuck it home from the doorstep.

The USA’s second half chances included a 51st minute free kick from Donovan from the left side that was just out of reach for a sliding Onyewu at the far post. In the 70th minute, Altidore was fouled again at the top of the box and Donovan hit a free kick that bounced around before the 20-year old forward turned fired on goal, but Handanovic made a tough save look easy with a confident catch.

The USA's World Cup continues on Wednesday, June 23, against Algeria in Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria. The match kicks off at 4 p.m. local time (10 a.m. ET) live on ESPN HD and Telefutura, with special pre-game coverage beginning at 9:30 a.m. on ESPN. ESPN Radio and Futbol de Primera Radio will also provide coverage of the game. Fans can also follow along on ussoccer.com's MatchTracker and at twitter.com/ussoccer.

Tim Howard Expected to Play Against Slovenia in USAs 2nd World Cup Match

By Robert H. Kelly
Copyright 2010 TexSport Publications

HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 14, 2010) After a physical examination this morning, the medical staff has determined there is no need to conduct additional testing on goalkeeper Tim Howard. He continues to make substantial improvement and is expected to be available for the match Slovenia on June 18 in Johannesburg is expected to be available for the match against Slovenia on June 18 in Johannesburg.

During the U.S. Men's National Team opening match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup on June 12 against England, Howard took a boot from forward Emile Heskey to his right side in the 29th minute while making an excellent diving clearance on a dangerous cross.

Howard stayed down on the play for three minutes, but returned to action to help the USA earn a 1-1 draw and Man of the Match honors.

The U.S. Men’s National Team’s highly anticipated opening match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup against England on ABC was the most viewed World Cup first round match and fifth most-viewed World Cup match ever. The match, which ended in a 1-1 draw, was the most watched U.S. MNT match since 1994.

The two-hour match window averaged a 7.3 household rating (8,391,000 households and 12,956,000 viewers) based on fast nationals. The three-hour telecast, which included one hour of pre-match coverage, delivered a 6.1 household rating (7,034,000 households, and 10,763,000 viewers). In addition, 3.8 million watched the Spanish-language broadcast on Univision.

Other interesting facts have come out of the first three days of the tournament.

The four-goal outburst by Germany against Australia for a 4-0 win marked the only of the first 11 games with more than two goals, and two of those were scored after Australia was reduced to 10 men after a Tim Cahill red card.

Four games have finished 1-0, three have finished 1-1 and there was one scoreless tie.

The tournament has averaged 1.64 goals per game through 11 matches, down from 2.09 through 11 matches in 2006.

For the second consecutive FIFA World Cup, Germany opened with four goals (in 2006 they opened with a 4-2 win against Costa Rica).

The goal averages in the first 10 games not to include Germany is 1.40 in 2010 and was 1.70 in 2006.

Lionel Messi took four shots on goal in Argentina’s 1-0 win against Nigeria. Not including Argentina, only eight of the 21 teams who have played have more than four shots on goal.
The U.S. Men’s National Team’s highly anticipated opening match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup against England on ABC was the most viewed World Cup first round match and fifth most-viewed World Cup match ever. The match, which ended in a 1-1 draw, was the most watched U.S. MNT match since 1994.

USA Prepares For Slovenia At World Cup

By Robert H. Kelly
Copyright 2010 TexSport Publications

HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 14, 2010) The U.S. Men's National Team training staff is closely monitoring Tim Howard’s progress as he receives treatment for the bruised ribs he suffered against England on a challenge from Emile Heskey. Howard will be evaluated once again in the early Monday morning to determine if any tests will be required.

USA will now turn its focus to preparing for their next match against Slovenia on Friday, June 18. Slovenia is currently in 1st place in Group C with their win over Algeria.

Former West Brom midfielder and Slovenia captain Robert Koren scored a 79th-minute goal against a 10-man Algeria side to take first place in Group C after the first round of matches.

Algeria’s Abdelkader Ghezzal received his second yellow card just 15 minutes after coming into the game in the 58th minute, and six minutes later Algeria’s Faouzi Chaouchi misjudged the bouncing shot from Koren that made Slovenia the first team to reach three points after a game that featured just six shots on goal, the same number of shots on goal Tim Howard saved against England.

USA Head Coach Bob Bradley was quote in a press conference in South Africa saying “Slovenia played a tactical game. They are well organized and solid defensively. They got a good goal from Robert Koren, who has been an important player for Slovenia throughout qualifying. In reality, we had five weeks to prepare for the World Cup, and the players will tell you that it was only in the last four or five days that we really turned the focus on England. As a coaching staff, we had done our homework along the way, but we’ve done that with Slovenia and Algeria as well. When you’ve played a match, the day after is regeneration and, for the players who didn’t play, training. As a coaching staff, we’ve gone through the tape and we’ll start to look for some things with the team and getting some things established with Slovenia. The time frame for us is actually the same.”

The game is set for Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg.

KFC World Cup of Softball brings premier players to Oklahoma City

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA (July 15, 2009) The first pitch of the 2009 KFC World Cup of Softball presented by Six Flag is less than 24 hours away at the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) Hall of Fame Complex in Oklahoma City, Okla., with the Italy and Netherlands game scheduled for July 16 at 11:30 a.m. The currently undefeated USA Softball Women’s National Team (12-0) gets into World Cup action Thursday at 7 p.m. against the Netherlands.

A premier international event that will be aired throughout the world on the networks of ESPN, the World Cup features the top teams from the 2008 Olympic Games: gold medalists Japan, silver medalists USA, bronze medalists Australia and fourth place finishers Canada. Also making an appearance at its first ever World Cup are the Netherlands, ranked eighth at the Beijing Olympics, and Italy, an emerging softball nation.

Netherlands and Italy will face each other at the World Cup for the first time since the Netherlands upset Italy to advance to the recent Olympics. But the biggest showdown will come on Saturday at 7 p.m. when the three-time Olympic Champion United States, now a relatively young team that relies heavily on its 10 rookies, takes on Japan for the first time since Japan took over the No. 1 world ranking by winning Beijing’s Gold Medal game 3-1.

"The big goal is to win the gold medal every time we take the field. That's ultimately what we're about as a program," said head coach Jay Miller (Starkville, Miss.). "We want to continue that and, more importantly, we want to get better individually for our players and we want to get better as a team, bottom line."

Though both the American and Japanese teams will look different in Oklahoma City, the eight veterans of Team USA—Monica Abbott (Salinas, Calif.), Andrea Duran (Selma, Calif.), Jennie Finch (La Mirada, Calif.), Vicky Galindo (Union City, Calif.), Lauren Lappin (Anaheim, Calif.), Caitlin Lowe (Tustin, Calif.), Cat Osterman (Houston) and Natasha Watley (Irvine, Calif.)—see the World Cup as an opportunity to redeem themselves from the silver medal disappointment.

“It’s always nice to come to Oklahoma City and compete in front of the best fans in the World. I think we are all excited to face Japan as the last time we matched up with them, the result wasn’t exactly what we wanted,” said Finch. “It’s not just Japan though that we are looking to as the top teams in the World will be in Oklahoma City. It’s an amazing opportunity for softball fans to see some incredible softball action.”

The USA is coming off its season opening 12-0 appearance at the 2009 Canada Cup in Surrey, B.C., Canada, where they captured a Gold Medal with a come-from-behind, bottom of the seventh inning rally over host Canada, 3-2. At the World Cup, the Americans will again face Canada, for the fifth time of the season, as well as Australia and the Netherlands.

Watley (Irvine, Calif.), named the Most Valuable Player of the Tournament, has been instrumental in the success of the team hitting .548 (17-for-31) with 14 RBI and 11 runs scored. Osterman and Abbott both earned four wins each for the team with Osterman earning the win in the circle in the Championship game against Canada.

The team has outscored opponent 78-5 and have a combined .373 batting average heading into the World Cup.

Although women’s fast pitch is the focus of the World Cup, the first USA Softball Men’s National Slow Pitch team will take part in three exhibition games on Thursday and Friday before competing in the inaugural Border Battle with Canada’s slow pitch team.

ESPN will air seven games live from the ASA Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City while also providing coverage on the www.espn360.com Web site. For more information on the television schedule, refer to the USA Softball Web site at www.usasoftball.com/folders.asp?uid=5056.

Tickets for the World Cup of Softball and the Border Battle are still on sale at www.softball.com and will also be available at the stadium ticket booth July 16-20. Fans who attend the games in person will have the chance to win prizes like wrist bands and even meet members of the USA Softball Women’s National Team.

Thursday, July 16 – Fan Banners to first 3,000 fans!
Session #1
11:30 AM Italy vs. Netherlands
2:00 PM Australia vs. Japan
7:00 PM ESPN USA vs. Netherlands
9:00 PM Canada vs. Italy


Friday, July 17 – Wear RED to support the troops! Camo Wrist Band packs to the first 2,000 fans!
Session #2
11:30 AM Netherlands vs. Australia
2:00 PM Canada vs. Australia
7:00 PM ESPN USA vs. Italy (Autographs with Team USA to follow)
9:00 PM Italy vs. Japan

Saturday, July 18 – PINK OUT! Pink hats to the first 5,000 fans! Show support for Breast Cancer research.
Session #3
12:00 PM ESPN USA vs. Canada
3:00 PM ESPN Men’s Slow Pitch USA vs. Canada Border Battle
7:00 PM ESPN USA vs. Japan
9:00 PM Japan vs. Netherlands


Sunday, July 19
Session #4
12:00 PM ESPN USA vs. Australia
2:30 PM Japan vs. Canada
5:00 PM Italy vs. Australia
7:30 PM Netherlands vs. Canada


Monday, July 20 – USA Nike hats to the first 500 fans!
Session #5
12:30 PM #6 Seed vs. #5 Seed
3:30 PM #4 Seed vs. #3 Seed
8:00 PM ESPN2 #1 Seed vs. #2 Seed (Autographs with Team USA to follow)


Also check out www.usasoftball.com for complete coverage of the World Cup including box scores, recaps, interviews and much more.