Bob Bradley was left to rue a missed opportunity as his USA side were knocked out of the World Cup by Ghana.
American coach disappointed not to have progressed
Head coach Bob Bradley was left to rue a missed opportunity as his experienced United States side were knocked out of the World Cup by Ghana in Rustenburg.
The Americans fought back following a sluggish first half in which they fell behind to Kevin-Prince Boateng's fifth minute goal.
Landon Donovan, who had been the hero of their dramatic qualification for the last 16, equalised from the penalty spot just after the hour.
But, a spectacular left-foot strike by Asamoah Gyan in extra-time sent the Africans through to the quarter-finals.
The States attempted a desperate all-out assault in the final few minutes of extra-time, but it was not to be.
Bradley felt his side simply did not have anymore to give, saying: "I really felt when we got to 1-1 there were some chances for us.
Cruel game
"Early in the overtime we go down again. At that point, with everything we put into the game early, we didn't have enough after that.
"We have a great squad. We're proud but also disappointed not to have gone further."
Meanwhile, goalscorer Donovan blamed USA for being too naive and was left frustrated as his side were sent tumbling out of the tournament.
"We were a little naive and at this level you can't do that," admitted the 28-year-old.
"It is frustrating considering all the work we have put in, it just sucks man.
"I'm proud of what the team has done. Soccer is a cruel game sometimes. One minute you are on top of the world, the next minute you are at the bottom of the mountain."
