Jonathan Bead
Ricardo Pepi scores crucial goal as US advances to CONCACAF Nations League finals
The United States soccer team secured their spot in the CONCACAF Nations League finals with a 1-0 win over El Salvador, thanks to a crucial goal from Ricardo Pepi.
The US, who had recently thrashed Grenada 7-1, needed just a win or draw to advance to the semis, and they got off to a strong start, dominating possession in the first half but failing to convert their chances.
Giovanni Reyna hit the post early in the second half, while veteran Tim Ream was denied by El Salvador’s goalkeeper moments later.
Pepi subbed in for Daryl Dike and made an immediate impact, scoring the game-winning goal after just seconds on the field. Fellow substitute Taylor Booth also had a chance to double the lead but missed narrowly.
The US will now join Mexico in the four-team Nations League finals, set to take place from June 15 to 18 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. The final two spots will be decided on Tuesday.
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