The Greatest Game in U.S. Men's Soccer History?

The couch of our room before the arrival of the bus, which again showed late. In Pretoria, our guide decided to park us in an awkward location, walk us to a gate, and say, "Meet me here when it's over." None of it mattered, though, as we had over 2.5 hours to explore the grounds of the stadium before the match.

The stadium in Pretoria felt new in the sense that it had little character. We had a nice chat with a South African couple who were glad to hear our glowing reviews of their country, telling us we needed to see Cape Town in order to fully understand the beauty the nation has to offer. When we learned they had only seen Washington D.C. and Boston, we had similar advice about the states.

Despite having tickets in block 1, Chris stayed with us near block 11 before the match. When he located his seat he was interviewed by Al Jezeera, providing his thoughts on the outcome of the game. He returns to England Friday, ending our union here in South African together.

Ben and I thought this guy set U.S. fans back about 50 years. Stephanie agreed, adding that he simultaneously misrepresented everyone in the legal profession.

Signing the Hyundai ball. This makes more sense if you've seen the Hyundai commercial that airs here twice every commercial break in which fans sign and then bat around a giant, inflatable soccer ball.

The Algerians loved us, and we loved them back. Early on our group was a spectacle, posing for pictures and obliging the opposing fans. The Algerian fans do not think, despite whatFourFourTwo posited, that the U.S.A. is 'The Great Satan.' After the match, I shook more hands of congratulatory Algerians than I can recall. We also had a number of requests to trade our U.S. jerseys or scarves with Algerians', a post-match tradition (at least on the pitch). With an upcoming trip to the knockout game, however, we could not oblige. It was fantastic to share the experience with this group.

Zooks in their seats, all hopped up on emotion.

Sunset from our seats in Pretoria just before the start of the second half.

Ben and I both have video of the celebration, so this is the only picture we can offer. Just know that strangers hugged and shared high-fives. People cried, sending salt water streaks through the images painted on their faces. Voices already made hoarse by hours of supportive cheering were forced to strain and scream again. It was remarkably unique, a moment of raw celebration and tremendous relief.

The boys again lingered on the field to celebrate with their supporters. They visited multiple blocks of fans. Here, they're making their way to our side of the field where Jozy Altidore jumped the fence and ran into the front rows. Someone threw a flag to Donovan, who happily unfolded it and draped it over himself.

Next up, Ghana on Saturday in Rustenburg. Then, unbelievably, we depart for the states on Monday.