Jun 22, 2014; Manaus, Amazonas, BRAZIL; Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo (7) cuts between United States midfielder Jermaine Jones (13) and United States midfielder Graham Zusi (19) during the second half of a 2014 World Cup game at Arena Amazonia. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Nothing.
I’ve got nothing.
I sat in my seat in the bar ready to write a column about the United States Men’s National Team’s amazing come from behind victory over Portugal. To ensure I didn’t jinx the outcome, I made sure to never publicly state my feelings.
After Deuce’s goal, I was positive that the US was moving on to the round of 16 and maybe avoiding the Belgian juggernaut. This article was going to be filled with reaction videos from bars across the country celebrating the USMNT win.
Then, Cristiano Ronaldo happened.
The US had been lucky. Very lucky. While controlling much of the offensive play, there were still moments that made everyone shriek. Portugal had a few free kicks near the box and, as any fan of soccer can tell you, he’s good at those. Also, he had the run to Tim Howards left side that resulted in a errant shot.
No matter what happens, if your opponent has Cristiano Ronaldo, they are still in the match.
Just before the cross, I yelled to a crowd of strangers, “FOUL HIM!” I have watched far too much soccer to know that if, on a transition play, Ronaldo has the ball, he will make the correct decision.
He did.
After a game full of chances that he mis-hit and sent wayward and, when the Portuguese needed him most, Cristiano Ronaldo did what Cristiano Ronaldo does. That cross, to the box, perfect.
God he’s good.
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