World Cup 2010, United States Vs. Algeria: Controversial Call Keeps United States Drawn At Halftime

The United States had a 20th minute goal taken off the board when a controversial offside call went against the U.S., canceling a Clint Dempsey goal and keeping the team scoreless at halftime against the Algerians.

Dempsey stabbed a left-footed finish into an undefended net mid-way through the first half, but the U.S. attacker was adjudicated offside. Replays showed Dempsey onside, with Algeria defender Mahjid Bougherra keeping him on from three yards out.

Dempsey’s was not the U.S.’s only chance, having generated other opportunities for Landon Donovan, Herculez Gomez and Jozy Altidore amidst a half of soccer dominated by the Americans.

Algeria had the first good chance of the match, with a right-footed half-volley from Rafik Djebbour hitting the cross bar early.