World Cup: U.S. vs Algeria: Halftime arrives without a goal in Pretoria

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A great move by the U.S. is thwarted by an equally good save by the Algerian goalkeeper.

Jozy Altidore slides the ball across three would-be defenders to Landon Donovan, who spots Clint Dempsey running in and feeds him the ball. Dempsey’s shot is blocked by the goalkeeper.

Moments later, with the U.S. in full-assault mode, Altidore blazes a shot high over the bar when the goal was at his mercy. The miss has U.S. Coach Bob Bradley hopping mad on the sideline.

This is turning out to be an end-to-end encounter, with neither team willing or able to slow the pace and build their attacks slowly from the back. Halftime is approaching, and both teams will appreciate the chance to catch their breath.

Down in Port Elizabeth, it’s still 1-0 in England’s favor. If the U.S. and Algeria tie, it will be England and Slovenia going through to the second round.

Meanwhile, a long run by Nadir Belhadj, a deep cross and a near miss on the attempted header by Rafik Djebbour signals Algeria’s intent to win and advance.

There’s the whistle. It’s 0-0 in Pretoria, the sun is setting, the field is in shadow and the U.S. has 45 minutes left in its World Cup quest unless it finds a way to break through the Algerian defense.

-- Grahame L. Jones in Pretoria, South Africa