The United States labored for over 70 minutes against Jamaica before eventually producing enough quality to down Jamaica 2-0 at Kansas City’s Sporting Park. Graham Zusi and Jozy Altidore got the goals in the final 13 minutes to ensure that the already-qualified U.S. finish top of the Hexagonal standings and that Jamaica will finish bottom, with one match still remaining.
Jurgen Klinsmann had talked in the lead up to the match about the need for his side to begin preparations in earnest for next year’s World Cup. But, in truth, much of this qualifier played out with the urgency of a pre-season exhibition. With the likes of Clint Dempsey, Michael Bradley and Omar Gonzalez out injured, there was a chance for some of the squad’s fringe players to stake their claim to be on the flight to Brazil next year. However in an unfamiliar 4-4-2 system, few of the starters made a significant impression.
In-form striker Aron Johansson was handed a first start alongside his former AZ Alkmaar teammate Altidore, but, although there were glimpses of his quality, nerves appeared to hamper his performance. Mix Diskerud also struggled playing as an orthodox central midfielder alongside Jermaine Jones. Indeed, it wasn’t until Klinsmann changed the shape of the team back to the more familiar 4-2-3-1 that the U.S. found some cohesion going forward.
More to follow.
USA vs Jamaica 2:0 GOALS HIGHLIGHTS by footballdaily1
VIDEO USA 2-0 Jamaica: Highlights; Zusi And Altidore Strike Late In World Cup Qualifier
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