WFI‘s Adam Brandon counts down to Russia 2018 with 90 World Cup goals in 90 days, scored in the minute corresponding to the day in the countdown.
Context
Portugal flew to the World Cup in Korea and Japan full of confidence that they could reach the latter stages and perhaps even win it.
They had performed well in Euro 2000, and it was another chance for their golden generation to make their mark.
They also appeared to have been placed in a favourable group. Hosts South Korea had never advanced beyond the group stage while Poland looked beatable European opposition. The Portuguese began with a match against the USA, who had performed horribly four years earlier in France.
However, Portugal found themselves behind after just four minutes and never really recovered with goalkeeper Vitor Baia looking particularly nervy.
The Goal
The USA added their second as Landon Donovan sees his cross deflect in off the unfortunate Jorge Costa:
What Happened Next?
It wasn’t long until the USA were celebrating again as Brian McBride’s terrific diving header put them three up.
Portugal attempted a comeback and they pulled it back to 3-2 with twenty minutes remaining, but they couldn’t find an equaliser. Portugal’s tournament got worse as they lost to South Korea which coupled with the USA getting a point against Poland meant they were heading home early.
The USA finished second in the group and beat their great rivals Mexico in the second round before losing a tight quarter final to a Germany side inspired by Michael Ballack.
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