CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinal: Jamaica 1 United States 3

USA overcame a 90-minute weather delay and a spirited Jamaica side to move through to Sunday's decider against Mexico in Chicago.

Published : Jul 04, 2019 11:15 IST

Christian Pulisic scored twice in the second half for USA.
Christian Pulisic scored twice in the second half for USA.
lightbox-info

Christian Pulisic scored twice in the second half for USA.

Defending champion the United States set up a blockbuster CONCACAF Gold Cup final against rival Mexico after beating Jamaica 3-1.

Goals from Weston McKennie and Christian Pulisic sent USA through to Sunday's decider following a weather-interrupted semifinal in Nashville. After McKennie's early opener, Wednesday's game was stopped for one-and-a-half hours due to lightning, but USA was not to be denied when the clash resumed in the 16th minute, with Pulisic doubling the lead seven minutes into the second half.

USA did concede its first goal of the tournament as Jamaica substitute Shamar Nicholson set up a nervy finale with 21 minutes remaining but Pulisic capitalised on another rebound to make sure of the result in the 87th minute.

Copa America report | CHILE 0-3 PERU

It was a rematch of the 2017 final won by a Bruce Arena-led USA and the host burst out of the blocks and was relentless in attack, with Jamaica goalkeeper Andre Blake preventing a certain goal by somehow denying Paul Arriola from point-blank range in the fourth minute.

But USA was not to be denied five minutes later as Bradley picked out Reggie Cannon before Jozy Altidore laid the ball onto the oncoming McKennie, who fired past Blake.

However, USA's momentum was abruptly halted by a lengthy delay due to severe weather in the 16th minute and the temporary suspension aided Jamaica. Jamaica emerged from the delay with renewed energy and looked far more threatening, while United States was disjoined and lacked rhythm.

 

The half-time interval provided USA with the chance to regroup and the Americans did just that as they moved 2-0 ahead through Chelsea-bound Pulisic in the 52nd minute.

Morris latched onto a McKennie pass and managed to get a shot off, with Blake only parrying the ball straight into the path of Pulisic, who tucked away the rebound.

After Gyasi Zardes wasted a great chance for USA, Jamaica's Nicholson headed a Leon Bailey cross into the net to pull a goal back for the 2015 and 2017 runner-up, only for Pulisic to pounce on another rebound with three minutes remaining.

 

Another final for USA

After the pain of missing the 2018 World Cup, USA's rebuild under Berhalter continues to gather pace. Mexico stands in the way of back-to-back Gold Cup triumphs in the first final showdown between the nations since 2011.

Bradley, McKennie impress

It was a fine team display by USA. Not short of critics, veteran midfielder Bradley was cool and calm in possession with his passing a clear highlight. Schalke's McKennie, meanwhile, showed why he is so highly rated with a goal and a couple of defence-splitting balls.

Jamaica can hold heads high

For much of the game, Jamaica was outclassed. But the Reggae Boyz, despite limited resources compared to their USA counterparts, made it tough for the six-time champion just like they did in the 2017 final.

What's next?

USA will look to retain its crown again Mexico in Chicago on Sunday, while Jamaica can look ahead to the CONCACAF Nations League — starting against Antigua and Barbuda on September 6.

Sign in to unlock all user benefits
  • Get notified on top games and events
  • Save stories to read later
  • Access to comment on every story
  • Sign up / manage to our newsletters with a single click
  • Get notified by email for early bird access to discounts & offers to our products
Sign in

Comments

Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal. Please abide to our community guidelines for posting your comment