The USMNT bagged three late goals, including a long-distance banger from Antonee Robinson, to down Trinidad & Tobago Thursday.
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USMNT score three goals in seven minutesPepi, Robinson and Reyna on scoresheetU.S. in pole position for Copa America qualificationGettyWHAT HAPPENED?
The USMNT scored three times in seven minutes and 23 seconds to claim a vital CONCACAF Nations League win over 10-man Trinidad and Tobago Thursday evening. Pepi got things going for Gregg Berhalter's side, before Antonee Robinson followed up with a long-distance curling effort. Then, Reyna finally made his mark on the match, scoring the dagger in the 3-0 victory.
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With victory Thursday – which many were not convinced was coming prior to the late Rciardo Pepi opener – the U.S. have all but confirmed their spot at Copa America. For USA fans, it's bittersweet relief, because we all know their history on the island of Trinidad in matches where they need a result to qualify for a major world tournament.
The key to the evening, though, was showing that the USMNT can in fact find a result without starting star wingers Christian Pulisic and Tim Weah. The Soca Warriors were incredibly composed and should be applauded for their defensive showing. Ultimately, though, it was impressive how focused Berhalter's side stayed and how influential his substitutes were; Brenden Aaronson and Pepi changed the game.
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR REYNA, ROBINSON AND THE USMNT?
The squad now hits the road for Monday's match in leg two of the series vs Trinidad in Port-of-Spain. Get over the line on Monday and the USMNT will qualify for the 2024 Copa America – a huge achievement for Berhalter's squad.