The USA defied all criticism and reached the quarterfinals of the Gold Cup. A former Bayern pro stood out against Haiti.
Former Bayern pro Malik Tillman scored with a header after a cross from Brenden Aaronson (10th minute). Patrick Agyemang became the match winner after good work from debutant John Tolkin (75th minute), leading the USA to a narrow 2-1 victory over Haiti in Arlington, Texas. Denmark-based Don Deedson Louicius had equalized 1-1 after a mistake by US goalkeeper Matthew Freese (19th minute).
The third preliminary round victory secured the USA the group win with a flawless record in the CONCACAF Gold Cup on home soil. In the run-up to the tournament, national coach Mauricio Pochettino’s team had disappointed on several occasions.
“It’s difficult to define Malik as a player, isn’t it?” Pochettino praised Tillman, who was born in Nuremberg, after the final whistle. The 23-year-old from PSV Eindhoven showed “all his talent and ability,” won many balls, and helped out with pressing. “I’m very happy with him,” said the Argentine coach of the US boys.
Mexico to face tournament hosts Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia followed the hosts and Mexico into the quarter-finals of the tournament. Coach Hervé Renard’s team secured second place in Group D with a 1-1 (0-1) draw against Trinidad and Tobago. After falling behind to Dante Sealy (10th minute), Firas Al-Buraikan secured a valuable draw for the Arabs in Paradise, Nevada.
Co-favorite Mexico needed only a 0-0 draw against Costa Rica to finish first in Group A ahead of “Los Ticos” and advance to the knockout stage.
In the round of the last eight, Mexico will now face tournament hosts Saudi Arabia. The USA will take on Costa Rica.