The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup with an exciting come from behind 4-1 win against Cuba.
Cuba took the lead in the 36th minute against the run of play with a great half volley from Jose Ciprian. This goal served as the wake up call the USMNT needed so badly in the first half.
The Yanks cranked up the pace of play in the final third, which was lacking before the goal. Landon Donovan equalized just before half time with another well placed penalty kick.
A great combination of quick passes from Donovan and Edgar Castillo lead to Castillo being tripped in the box.
This foul lead to Donovan’s penalty kick. Once this goal was scored, the fans at Rio Tinto Stadium and players began to believe they could win.
Joe Corona then netted his first international goal in the 57th minute to give the Stars and Stripes the lead for good this time. Corona deserved this goal after working extremely hard throughout the game.
Chris Wondoloski came off the bench to add two more goals in another stellar performance. These two goals added to his total of five goals in the last two games. His all-star performances over the last two games have made people question why he is not on the World Cup qualifying roster right now.
In these two games, Wondoloski has proven he should be included on the 2014 FIFA World Cup roster in Brazil next year.
This win guaranteed the USMNT a spot in the quarterfinals in Baltimore, Maryland. Their toughest test will be against Costa Rica in their final group-stage game.
This game will show if this USMNT could challenge for the Gold Cup trophy and will be a battle for first place in Group C.
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