United States Player Ratings

(Donovan celebrates after scoring the clinching goal)

As soon as Landon Donovan slotted home his eventual game-winner in the 92nd minute, I jumped up, glasses flying out of my pocket, and hugged my boss who was sitting at the bar to my right.

Just like thousands of other American soccer fans, I was lost in the moment after the Yanks' 1-0 victory over Algeria. So many emotions were experienced over the course of 90 minutes that I left the pub with my limbs shaking.

This victory will no doubt go down as one of the most memorable in U.S. soccer history. It has been the first time we have won our World Cup group since 1930. It also set the Americans up with a good chance to advance further into the tournament with a favorable bracket ahead.

So now, without further adieu, here are my player ratings for the Yanks from today's game.

Ratings: 1-10 (10 =best)

GK-Tim Howard: did not face as many shots as previous games, but was still solid--7
D-Jonathan Bornstein: a surprise starter, played well but not great--6
D-Jay DeMerit: a rock in the back--7.5
D-Carlos Bocanegra: moved in from the left to his usual position. A great performance--7.5
D-Steve Cherundolo: created havoc, as usual, down the right flank--7.5
M-Maurice Edu: did well in his first start, providing good ball pressure throughout--6.5
M-Michael Bradley: Man of The Match performance in the center of the midfield--8.5
M-Clint Dempsey: wasted a couple free kicks, but was dangerous--7
M-Landon Donovan: his sheer determination led to the game-winning goal--8
F-Jozy Altidore: wasted a great chance in front of net, but was a threat throughout--7.5
F-Herculez Gomez: was just okay in his only half of action--6

Subs:

M-Benny Feilhaber: provided some dangerous runs in the second half--7
F-Edson Buddle: wasn't a super sub but almost scored on a late header--6
D-DaMarcus Beasley: surprising to see him at left back--6