Dear Abby.......

In what was arguably the most hyped match in the quarter final draw, United States vs Brazil delivered on every count.  There was a goal in the game's opening moments, and it's closing moments were punctuated by another; as the United States, reduced to 10 players, managed to hold off Brazil, before overcoming them in penalties.  The women's all-time record against Brazil now stands at 24-2-2.

With barely any time left, and the United States' exit from the tournament only a whistle away, who better to rise to the occasion (literally) than Abby Wambach?  Megan Rapinoe lifted a pin-point cross that eluded Brazilian goalkeeper Andreia, and with a free header, Wambach did only what she does best; finish!!

If Karina Maruyama's goal for Japan against Germany in extra-time was dramatic, then Wambach's goal just about tore the roof off the dump.  It was just as dramatic, if not more, as Landon Donovan's game winner against Algeria in the 2010 World Cup.

I would easily vote Megan Rapinoe as "Player of the match".  Her hustle and hard work eventually paid off in the biggest way possible yet.  Additional credit goes out to the defense who held tight for long periods of the game, despite having to make do without Rachel Buehler.  At times, it seemed like their hard work would be undone by some Brazilian wizardry, but they came through just fine.

Up next for the U.S. is a French team that endured a little PK drama before getting past England.  There is no doubt that the U.S. will be carrying a lot of momentum into that game.  Not to overlook the French, but at this point, these ladies seem unstoppable.

An honorable mention should go to Brazilian player, Erika.  If it wasn't for her "play-acting" in an attempt to kill time, Wambach's goal might have never happened.  Erika's time spent on the ground, "twisting" and "turning" as if she were in a lot of "pain", needed to be accounted for and additional minutes were put on the clock.  The rest, as Barney Stinson would say, is LEGENDARY!!!