The United State’s men soccer team dominated Portugal throughout heir match during group play. But a goal in the 95th minute cost the American team three points, and means that the USA needs to record a draw against German to move on in the World Cup.

Portugal is still alive after a late goal — Winslow Townson, USA Today Sports

Portugal winger Silvestre Varela headed in the match tying goal with 3o seconds left in stoppage time. Varela’s goal came thanks to a fast break on the right side by Cristiano Ronaldo, who fired off a perfect cross pass to set up the final goal.

Outside of the tying goal, the Americans pretty much controlled the match. With goals coming from Clint Dempsey (81st minute) and Jermaine Jones (64th minute) that gave the US a 2-1 lead.

Dempsey’s goal came off of a pass from Graham Zusi. Zusi drew Portugal goal keeper Beto to the right side of the net, and then passed it to Dempsey who had gotten behind the goal keeper and was wide open. The ball bounced off of his chest, and into the back of the net.

Jones’ goal came off of a corner kick, when he received the kick…and then fired a wicked shot that froze Beto.

While the United States didn’t pull off of the win, the draw against Portugal gives them an opportunity to escape Group G…also known as the “group of death”. A group that many people didn’t expect the squad to escape from, but here they are…in control of their own destiny.

The American team missed a golden opportunity to knock out the Portuguese and guarantee them a spot in the knock out rounds. If the defense had been able to hold, the US would have had seven points — while Portugal would have had zero. Currently the United States is tied with German with four points, and both are in need of at least a draw when these two squads face off on Thursday, June 26th.