Tag Archives: Australia

theworldcupchampion.com In a final warm-up before the World Cup kicks off, the United States and Australia faced off in Roodepoort, South Africa. Due to a mild ankle sprain, the Americans were without striker Jozy Altidore. In his stead, coach Bob Bradley started in-form striker Edson Buddle alongside Robbie Findley. Central defender Oguchi Onyewu was also out of Bradley’s lineup, making way for Clarence Goodson. more theworldcupchampion.com By contrast, Australia coach Pim Verbeek sleected the same squad that featured in Tuesday’s 1-0 victory over Denmark. The match could hardly have started better for the United States. After just four minutes, Buddle caught Vincenzo Grella looking at his feet, and dispossessed the central midfielder. The 29-year old dribbled forward and unleashed a powerful strike, beating Mark Schwarzer from 18 yards. Australia continued to struggle to pass in their own half, and the American strikers’ intensity. Findley should have made the score 2-0 within a quarter hour after beating the Aussies’ offside trap and rounding Schwarzer, but failed to get his hips around the ball, and fired wide. The Americans’ loss would be Australia’s gain. In a quick response, Cahill flashed an effort just wide, and the Socceroos began a bright spell of pressure. After 19 minutes, Australia won a corner, and Cahill found himself free to tap in at the far post. After equalizing, the Australians pushed forward with tails raised. Suddenly the US had trouble passing out …

Read more:
USA vs Australia Buddle friendly match 2010