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The United States men's national soccer team beat Italy 1-0 on Wednesday, marking the first time that team USA has ever defeated the Azzurri and an excellent start to the Jurgen Klinsmann era.
This win is a sign of great things to come, even if it was just a friendly match. Clint Dempsey scored in the 55th minute, which was all team USA needed to get it's first victory over Italy in 11 games over 78 years.
What's even more remarkable is that this amazing win occurred without Landon Donovan, who is arguably team USA's best player.
As for Klinsmann, he knew he had to turn the team around and make them believe in winning big when he took the job. Beating Italy was a great start, and team USA is now headed for winning ways.
After the match, Klinsmann said via CBS News that the historic win was a huge step for USA soccer.
"It's historic for us beating a team of Italy's level," Klinsmann said. "If you beat Italy on their own soil then that means a lot. ... Obviously as a coach you're pleased because you see them progressing, you see young players stepping up and playing against these amazing, experienced Italian players who have won the World Cup and played big tournaments year in and year out. Obviously it was a big step for us."
Since taking over as head coach, Klinsmann has a 5-4 win/loss record. However, taking down Italy really brings home the excitement.
Had team USA lost, it would have been another setback. With Klinsmann calling the shots, this team had to start doing big things. A loss would have meant they're not where they need to be.
A blowout would have been stellar, but a close victory is just fine. It shows that USA soccer is on the rise, and teams around the world need to watch out.
Considering how strong other teams are, they may not fear the Americans, but they do need to start paying attention.
They're on the rise, and beating Italy is a strong indication that Klinsmann will be leading team USA to greatness.
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