November 13, (THEWILL) – On Saturday morning, Christian Pulisic came off the bench to help the United States beat Mexico 2-0 in their CONCACAF World Cup qualifying series.
Hirving Lozano tested USA goalkeeper Zach Steffen with a low effort in the 19th minute, coming close to opening the score.
With Mexico in command in the first half, Lozano crossed for El Tri teammate Jesus Corona, who volleyed wide at the back post on the half-hour mark.
As the US began to gain control of the game, Juventus midfielder McKennie stung the palms of Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa early in the second half.
With 16 minutes remaining, replacement Christian Pulisic headed in Timothy Weah’s cross to give the United States the lead. Pulisic, who is currently recovering from an ankle injury.
Weston McKennie then increased the US’s lead in the 85th minute, sliding home calmly from inside the box, before Robinson was sent out for a second bookable offence after a foul.
The victory is historic as, for the first time since 1937, the United States has defeated Mexico three times in one calendar year. It means the United States is in a strong position to qualify for Qatar 2022, tying Mexico on 14 points but ahead on goal difference with seven games remaining.
Canada is one point behind in third for the three spots with automatic qualification, while Panama is in fourth, in the play-offs spot with 11 points.
On Tuesday, the United States will meet sixth-placed Jamaica in Kingston, while Mexico will go to Canada.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
