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Last gasp U.S. beat Algeria to qualify

The United States scored a last-gasp winner to beat Algeria and qualify for the last 16 of the World Cup after a pulsating and even match in which both sides had plenty of chances.

Landon Donovan got the vital U.S. winner in the second minute of injury time.

The Group C match had its first chance within 12 seconds, but Karim Ziani’s volley from outside the penalty box flew just wide of Tim Howard’s goal.

Algeria came close again in the sixth minute with another volley, Rafik Djebbour taking advantage of a mistake by defender Jay DeMerit to send his shot crashing against the bar.

The Americans responded just moments later with a powerful drive by striker Hercules Gomez forcing keeper Rais Ouheb Mbouli to palm away for a corner.

The United States had a goal disallowed late in their 2-2 draw with Slovenia and were frustrated again when Clint Dempsey’s 20^th minute tap in from a Gomez assist was judged offside.

Dempsey threatened again on 57 minutes when a Jozy Altidore cross fell to him near the penalty spot, but his curling shot hit the post.

Seven minutes later the United States pushed forward once more when Benny Feilhaber, who came on at halftime for Gomez, put in a dangerous cross which forced Mbouli to a reflex save with his outstretched leg.

The United States looked the more dangerous side, but the Algerians gave them occasional scares such as Hassan Yebda’s 68^th minute fierce strike that went wide after a flowing counter-attack.

Donovan put the United States ahead right at the death and there was still time for Antar Yahia to be sent off for a second yellow card.