Jamaica have the USA on the brink of defeat, but then the “Reggae Boyz” score a goal of their own. A former Dortmund player finally leads the USA to the final of the CONCACAF Nations League
It couldn’t have started any worse for the USA. Gregg Berhalter’s team conceded the first (and only) goal after just 34 seconds – the fastest goal the USA have conceded from the kick-off in the last century. Gregory Leigh’s unchallenged header put the USA, who were sloppy and uninspired, under pressure early on.
The USA now trailed for almost the entire match. However, an own goal by Jamaica in the 6th minute of stoppage time saved the USA into extra time. In extra time, two goals from substitute Haji Wright (96th/109th), both set up by Giovanni Reyna, who also came off the bench, secured the chance to win their second Nations League title in a row.
It was only when Jamaica began to tire that things started to work out for the Americans. And how. The 2:1 that turned the game around in the meantime was the result of a fantastic assist from former Dortmund player Reyna, who won the ball in midfield and played a perfect pass to Wright, who finished coolly. With his goal, Wright confirmed the good form he had recently shown in the FA Cup quarter-final with a late winner.
“When we make eye contact,” Wright told Paramount+ after the game about Reyna, “I know we have a connection. “
Disagreement with Berhalter “not an issue at all anymore “
A connection that is extremely important for the US team and coach Berhalter. Reyna’s rift with the coach seems to have been finally resolved. “Obviously what happened, happened,” the 21-year-old midfielder admitted after the game. “But I think we’re both so far over it and so focused on the group that it’s no longer an issue at all. “
The USA will now play Mexico for the title on Sunday. “El Tri” beat Panama 3:0 in the semi-finals
