clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Gold Cup 2011: USA Takes Early 1-0 Lead Over Mexico

After Mexico dominated play for the first seven minutes of the game, the US was able to win a corner after some nifty work from Freddy Adu and Steve Cherundolo on the left. Adu took the corner and Michael Bradley slipped by a defender at the near post and headed it in the take a 1-0 lead in the 9th minute.

With Mexico a heavy favorite and playing in front of a very pro Mexico crowd at the Rose Bowl, it’s huge for the US men to get the early lead. This is only the second time all tournament that Mexico has trailed.

The US did get some bad news however as Steve Cherundolo appeared to injure himself on a tackle and needed to be substituted in only the 11th minute. Jonathon Bornstein came on to play left back while Eric Lichaj moved over to the right. With Cherundolo being arguably the USA’s most consistent defender, it could be a huge blow.

Mexico has certainly not been short of chances and largely has controlled the game. Chicharito has had at least three chances just barely missed.

Check out our full 2011 Gold Cup Stream for more coverage of Mexico's convincing 4-2 win.