Tim Howard, goalkeeper, 5 -- Gave up too much of his near post on Boateng's goal. He was otherwise solid in his handling, parrying away a free-kick from Gyan in the first half. Could do nothing about Gyan's strike in extra time.
Jonathan Bornstein, defense, 6.5 -- Another strong performance. Conceded a bit too much space out wide in the opening minutes, but was solid with his one-on-one defending throughout the match.
Carlos Bocanegra, defense, 6 -- Was the Americans' most consistent defender for much of the night, yet he was victimized by his club teammate Gyan on the game-winner.
Jay DeMerit, defense, 5 -- Miserable first half, much better second. DeMerit failed to close down Boateng on the goal. He also misplayed a ball late in the first half that gave Kwadwo Asamoah a great chance. Was much more composed in the second half.
Steve Cherundolo, defense, 5.5 -- Was given a torrid time by Andre Ayew early but got forward more as the game went on. Overall, Cherundolo had an outstanding tournament.
Clint Dempsey, midfield, 7 -- Worked his socks off to spark the U.S. attack, setting up Findley with a clear chance in the first half. Was a handful when moved up top and won the Americans' penalty.
Ricardo Clark, midfield, 3 -- Started the same as against England, with a terrible early error that led to a goal. In this case he was stripped by Asamoah, which launched Boateng's run on goal. Being substituted after a mere 31 minutes summed up his night.
Michael Bradley, midfield, 6 -- Struggled initially against Boateng, but gradually came back into the game. The best U.S. chances often started with his tackles.
Landon Donovan, midfield, 6 -- Was forced to help defend often in a bid to limit Ayew's influence. Wasn't that effective going forward in the first half, but grew in influence in the second, especially on set pieces. Tucked away a pressure-packed penalty by kissing it off the post.
Jozy Altidore, forward, 5.5 -- His good moments were undone by poor touches and decisions. He was more of a physical presence in the second half, and nearly scored while on his back in the 80th minute.
Robbie Findley, forward, 4 -- Failed to convert on a glorious first-half chance after being set up by Dempsey, and never really tested Ghana with his speed. Subbed at half-time.
Subs:
Maurice Edu, midfield, 6 -- Solidified the midfield defensively, although his distribution was lacking at times. Still, he had more plusses than minuses.
Benny Feilhaber, forward, 6.5 -- Provided instant offense and was denied by a superb save from goalie Richard Kingson early in the second half. He was sharp with his touches as well and set up Dempsey for the penalty kick.
Herculez Gomez, 5 -- Tracked back impressively, but offered only flashes offensively in extra time.
