Keep an Eye on U.S. Soccer

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A FRIEND asked me this weekend why I like sports. Fortunately, it's a short trip in the way-back machine to reach Sunday's U.S.-Brazil Confederations Cup final.

Anyone who has a passing interest in sports, even if he or she doesn't follow soccer, was surely riveted.

On one side was arguably the most successful team in the world, Brazil — full of a roster of internationally acclaimed players. Then there were the Americans, who needed a fantastical scenario just to advance in the South Africa.

The U.S. was almost as big an underdog in Sunday's match as it was when it shocked No. 1-ranked Spain last Wednesday. Nevertheless, for a thrilling 45 minutes, Landon Donovan, Tim Howard and company outplayed world-class Brazil. A 2-0 U.S. lead was almost unthinkable to even the most ardent of optimists.

It raised hope that we were watching a triumph of will and spirit over talent. Then the stars realigned in Brazil's favor with some of the best maneuvers you'll see in one half. It's a tribute to the U.S. that it brought out the best in one of the world's best teams.

One day, the U.S. will achieve such a victory to establish itself in the same class as Brazil. On Sunday, it just reminded us that the day is coming — and I hope my friend sits by my side when it happens.

Photo by Francois Xavier Marit/AFP/Getty Images