Pulisic, McKennie goals lift U.S. over rivals Mexico

CINCINNATI.- After a defeat in their last home World Cup qualification match against Mexico in the cycle for Russia 2018, the United States was able to return to their WCQ winning ways at home against their North America rivals with a 2-0 victory at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati on Friday.

The first half was played at a frenetic pace, but neither team was able to finish off any of the chances they
created, with both squads going back and forth with chances, sometimes in the very same minute.

The pace of the match slowed some in the second half, but in the end, United States manager Gregg
Berhalter’s changes made the difference.

In the 74th minute, Tim Weah took possession on the right wing and sent a cross into the box for
substitute Christian Pulisic, who beat his defender to the ball and headed past Mexico GK Guillermo Ochoa for the first goal of the night.

The lead was then 2-0 in the 85th minute when Weah found Jesus Ferreira, also into the match as a substitute, near the top of the 18-yard box. The FC Dallas attacker looked to combine with Weston
McKennie, but after the ball deflected off a Mexico defender, McKennie ran onto it himself and sent it past
Ochoa.

Mexico’s chances to find a goal to start a rally increased in the 89th minute when U.S. center back Miles
Robinson saw his second yellow card and was sent off, but there wasn’t enough time for Mexico to take
advantage of the opportunities.

Both teams hit the road for the final match of the calendar year in Concacaf World Cup qualification, with
the U.S. off to Jamaica and Mexico traveling to meet Canada.