World Soccer.—The U.S. national team had a perfect night and has practically secured a spot in the CONCACAF Nations League semifinals after routing Haiti 6-0 in the first leg of the quarterfinals, played this Saturday, November 14, at Nu Stadium in Miami.
The team coached by Mauricio Pochettino capitalized on its superiority on the field to secure a comfortable lead heading into the second leg. However, one of the night’s standout performers was Christian Pulisic, who scored twice and once again demonstrated why he is one of the leading figures in U.S. soccer.
The United States Takes Control Against Haiti
Although the final score ended up being quite lopsided, Haiti tried to compete in the opening minutes and sought to make things difficult for the U.S. team.
However, the United States quickly found the back of the net. In the 10th minute, Auston Trusty capitalized on a set piece to send the ball into the net and make it 1-0.
The slim lead held for much of the first half, but the picture changed completely after halftime.
In the 53rd minute, young Julian Hall stepped up to score the U.S.’s second goal and set the stage for a rout that still had plenty more to offer.
Christian Pulisic then took center stage. The AC Milan forward converted a penalty kick in the 62nd minute and, almost immediately, celebrated again with a second goal in the 63rd, extending the lead to four goals.
The U.S. celebration continued in the 68th minute, when Weston McKennie headed the ball in to make it 5-0.
Finally, Folarin Balogun stepped up in the 83rd minute to seal the deal and set the final, resounding score at 6-0.
Pulisic Makes History with the U.S.
Beyond the rout, Christian Pulisic delivered a special performance with his two goals, as he reached 35 goals with the U.S. national team and surpassed Eric Wynalda to become the fourth-highest all-time scorer for the national team.
The 28-year-old continues to establish himself as one of the Stars and Stripes’ key players, especially at a time when the team is seeking to regain prominence in international soccer.
Julian Hall also stood out; at just 18 years old, he continues to gain experience and a more prominent role within the U.S. national team.
Pochettino Bids Farewell with a Rout
The result also held special significance for Mauricio Pochettino, who is currently playing out his final matches as coach of the United States.
The Argentine coach will leave the national team to take on a new challenge at Manchester United, so this two-leg series marks the end of his tenure at the helm of the Stars and Stripes.
With a six-goal lead, the United States will head into the second leg—scheduled for Tuesday, November 17, in Cincinnati—with plenty of breathing room.
Haiti, for its part, faces a nearly impossible task if it hopes to stay alive in the competition and avoid elimination.
The lopsided victory puts the United States very close to advancing to the next round, though it will still need to finish the job in the second match to secure its spot.
