In the stands of the Schalke Arena, the United States fans—usually a boisterous crowd that loved to party wherever they went—were completely muted. Even the local German fans had quieted down significantly. Everyone had guessed the United States Team was no match for the Czech Republic Team, but no one expected them to lay down their arms so quickly. Conceding two goals in the first twenty-five minutes meant their chances of a comeback were infinitely close to zero.
Just then, having barely sat down after celebrating, Bruckner suddenly remembered something. He rose and walked to the touchline. Catching right-back Grigla nearby, he pointed toward the United States goal and shouted a string of instructions. Grigla looked completely bewildered.
"Coach, are you sure?"
