The United States Men's National Team clinched the top spot in CONCACAF World Cup qualifying with a 2-0 victory at Sporting Park on Friday night. The win improves the United States record to 6-2-1 in the hexagonal round of qualifying and 5-0-0 in home matches.
Sporting Kansas City players Matt Besler and Graham Zusi both featured in the victory. Besler started his sixth match in World Cup qualifying and Zusi provided the game-winning goal after replacing Landon Donovan at halftime.
Neither team created many chances in the first half with the USA having a slight 8-6 edge in shots. The chances picked up in the second half with the home side dominating possession and scoring two goals in a four-minute span.
The opening goal was scored by Zusi in the 77th minute, his second career international goal and first in World Cup qualifying. The Sporting KC midfielder struck a well-placed shot just inside the far post and past the diving goalkeeper. Alejandro Bedoya assisted on the goal.
Four minutes later, the USA extended their lead with an 81st minute Jozy Altidore goal. Edgar Castillo, who replaced DaMarcus Beasley in the 66th minute, sent a pass to Altidore in front of goal. The unmarked striker tapped it in for his fourth goal of the hexagonal round.
The United States will conclude 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying on Tuesday at Panama. Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. CT with live coverage available on beIN Sport and online at USsoccer.com
