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ESPNsoccernet: null | |
Eddie Johnson scored a brace in his first game for the United States since 2010 in a 2-1 victory over Antigua and Barbuda in their World Cup qualifier.
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The visitors took the lead through Johnson in the 20th minute courtesy of some fine lead-up work from Graham Zusi and Michael Bradley. Johnson headed powerfully toward goal and past the outstretched hand of goalkeeper Molvin James.
However, Antigua and Barbuda hit back when Peter Byers burst down the right before setting up Dexter Blackstock for the equaliser as US defender Clarence Goodson fell.
But the United States regained their control of the match after the half-time interval, though it took until second-half injury time before Jurgen Klinsmann's men could net the winner. Johnson wriggled free of his marker and headed home substitute Alan Gordon's cross.
The United States now need to beat Guatemala - who defeated Jamaica 2-1 after Carlos Ruiz scored an 85th minute winner - on Tuesday evening to move into the final phase of World Cup qualification.
Mexico enjoyed a comfortable 5-0 victory over Guyana on Friday evening. Andres Guardado, Javier Hernandez, Oribe Peralta Morones and Angel Reyna Martinez scored for the visitors, while defender Charles Pollard scored an own-goal to round out the thrashing.
Canada defeated Cuba 3-0 at home. Tosaint Ricketts edged Canada in front in the first half before Will Johnson and David Edgar netted after the interval.
Costa Rica snatched a 1-0 win away to El Salvador. Jose Cubero netted the winner in the 31st minute as they moved into second place in Group B.
Meanwhile, Panama remain in the box seat to take second place in Group C after playing out a 0-0 draw with third-placed Honduras.