Christian Pulisic delivered an exceptional performance, netting two crucial goals as the United States defeated Jamaica 4-2 in the second leg, securing a 5-2 aggregate victory.
Also Read: CONCACAF Live! Confirmed Line-ups USA vs Jamaica (19th November, 2024)
The result sends the U.S. to the CONCACAF Nations League semifinals and highlights their growing strength under coach Mauricio Pochettino.
Match Updates
Christian Pulisic was the star of the show, scoring twice to put the United States firmly in control. His first goal came in the 13th minute with a composed finish off Weston McKennie’s pass, and he doubled the lead in the 33rd after a smart dummy by Tanner Tessmann.
Ricardo Pepi’s long-range strike in the 42nd made it 3-0, demonstrating the U.S.’s attacking prowess. Tim Weah, returning from suspension, capped the scoring in the 56th minute with a sublime effort, ensuring the victory despite two goals from Jamaica’s Demarai Gray.
Jamaica struggled to match the U.S.’s intensity, especially missing star Michail Antonio due to passport issues. Despite Gray’s brace, including a well-taken rebound in the 68th minute, the U.S. dominated possession and finished the match strongly.
News
U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino praised his players while urging continued focus. “We need to arrive in March stronger and unified,” he said, referencing the upcoming semifinal clash in Inglewood, California.
Christian Pulisic lauded the team’s performance under their new coach, highlighting the progress since Pochettino’s arrival. Meanwhile, Tim Weah expressed confidence in the team’s direction, aiming for success at the 2026 World Cup on home soil.
Jamaica’s coach Steve McLaren lamented Antonio’s unavailability but acknowledged his team’s fight. With this win, the U.S. also qualified for next year’s Gold Cup, leaving Jamaica to battle through qualification rounds.
Scores
Panama advanced to the semifinals with a 3-2 aggregate win over Costa Rica after a dramatic 2-2 draw in Panama City. Goals from César Blackman and José Rodríguez secured Panama’s spot, despite finishing with ten men after Fidel Escobar’s red card.
Mexico and Canada will face crucial tests on Tuesday. Mexico hosts Honduras, needing to overturn a 2-0 deficit, while Canada looks to protect its 1-0 lead against Suriname.
