The United States will continue its reign as the best soccer team in CONCACAF. Facing Canada in CONCACAF Nations League finals, USMNT got a convincing 2-0 win to become the competition champions for the second consecutive time.
The USMNT entered the match lacking several key players, including right-back Sergino Dest and midfielder Weston McKennie, who was suspended for receiving red cards in the semifinal match against Mexico. However, Joe Scally and Brenden Aaronson stepped in for the duo and did a great job.
After a testy first 10 minutes of the game, USMNT broke the deadlock in the 12th minute. Gio Reyna made a superb corner cross, and Chris Richards headed the ball behind Canada’s goalie Milan Borjan. This was the first goal for Richards in the USMNT jersey.
USMNT continued piling the pressure on Canada despite scoring and benefited from the approach in the 36th minute. Newcomer Folarin Balogun showed he’s a worthy addition to the USMNT squad, bagging his first goal for the national side as well. It was once again Reyna who made the assist.
Canada tried to orchestrate a comeback in the second half but failed to threaten Matt Turner despite having a handful of great chances. The Americans, on the other hand, were happy to absorb the pressure and look for ways to threaten a counter-attack.
USMNT captain Christian Pulisic was pleased after the win, saying it is a step in the right direction for this young talented team.
“It’s another step in the right direction,” said USMNT captain Christian Pulisic after the game. “It’s just going to be about these knockout games. Come to those big tournaments, Copa America, World Cup; it’s time to get tough.”
