Though the United States isn't about to turn into a soccer powerhouse overnight, a dose of European-trained talent has given the Americans a good chance to win U.S. Cup '92.
Roy Wegerle, an English League star making his first start for the United States national team, scored in the 35th minute to give the Americans a 1-0 victory over Portgual Wednesday night at Soldier Field. Combined with a 3-1 victory over Ireland on May 30, the Americans need only a tie against Italy on Saturday to clinch the title."I'm very happy we have the chance to be champions," American coach Bora Milutinovic said. "We have four points, and if this were the World Cup, we'd go on to the next round. It's very important to the players to realize they can win this kind of tournament."
Bruce Murray made a superb arcing pass through traffic in midfield for Wegerle, who was breaking down the middle. Wegerle timed his run perfectly through a flat defense and was all alone 25 yards from the goal.
Goalkeeper Adelino Barros slid at Wegerle 14 yards out, but Wegerle took the ball from his right foot to his left to keep it away from Barros and had an easy shot into an open goal.
"It really caught us totally off-guard," Barros said.