Aug. 10, 2008

BEIJING, China - Well we are two games into our Olympic debut and are undefeated so far. The game last night was amazing...I have never played in front of so many people before. I believe the total was 62,600, and probably about 62,000 of those people were cheering against us! Still, the atmosphere was incredible.

China came out strong, but once we settled into things, we began to play our game and create some great opportunities. We scored first off of a great pass by Kara Lang to Christine Sinclair who perfectly struck the ball past the Chinese keeper. China was able to tie things up with about five or six minutes left in the half. Our keeper came out and challenged, but was beaten by the Chinese striker who shot the ball into the empty net. Our right back, Randee Hermus, looked like she just cleared the ball off the line, but the referee called it a goal.

The second half remained scoreless, although both teams had some good chances. Afterward, we were told that we had 35 shots, with 20 being on goal.

Overall we were happy with our performance, although disappointed that we didn't come away with the win because we felt like we deserved it. Right now it looks like we are in a good position to make the quarterfinals, even if we don't win against Sweden. Of course anything can happen, so we know that we don't want to leave anything to chance coming into the next game.

Today, we traveled back to the village in Beijing on a bullet train from Tianjin to Beijing, which we were told was the fastest train in the world. (approx. 344 km/h) The ride went by really fast and we made it to Beijing in no time. Once we got to the village, it began to rain-and then it began to pour. Apparently they have some sort of atmospheric bomb that shoots silver into the clouds in order to make it rain. Well, I guess they let off this "bomb," so now it is pouring, but this means blue skies tomorrow.

Oh and yes, I was wrong about Leona Lewis performing at the opening ceremonies but I'm going to blame my roommate for that one who claimed she "read it in a magazine." She also claimed that New Kids on the Block were making an appearance as well, so I probably should have known better! Maybe she will be at the closing ceremonies..??

Well, it has been another long day and I am soaking wet from running to the internet café by our building. Now it is time for a shower, maybe a movie, and then BED. I am in a triple room with a grand total of only two beds, so this should be interesting!