ARLINGTON, Tex. — The U. S.-Mexico men’s soccer rivalry is a spectacle, whether it’s a World Cup qualifier, a Gold Cup showdown, a random friendly or, in the case of Sunday’s tempest before 59,471 at AT&T Stadium, a Concacaf Nations League final. When a trophy is at stake — and accompanying regional bragging rights — the clashes swell with ferocity and tension. The latest chapter uncoiled with the usual vim and vigor, and in moments that will enter series lore, Tyler Adams and Gio Reyna scored breathtaking goals as the United States roared to a 2-0 victory for its third consecutive tournament title. Adams’s goal, a thunderbolt from 30 yards just before halftime, came in his second appearance since the 2022 World Cup — a pause necessitated by two hamstring operations. It also came seconds before he was set to leave the match because, as he continues rebuilding strength, his minutes in this event were limited. Reyna, who is back in good graces with Coach Gregg Berhalter after an unsavory rift at and after the World Cup, padded the lead in the 63rd minute with a leaping half-volley from 15 yards. The Americans extended their unbeaten streak against Mexico to seven matches (5-0-2), including victories in the 2021 and 2024 Nations League finals and a 2023 semifinal. The competition, which determined its final four through group play and quarterfinals last fall, was the start of an important two-year stretch for the U. S. and Mexican programs. This summer will bring Copa América and top teams from South America to U. S. venues. Next year is the biennial Concacaf Gold Cup, followed in 2026 by the World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The scene was colorful and loud. Mexico supporters outranked their counterparts by a substantial percentage. El Tri’s fans turn out for their team no matter where it plays in the United States but particularly in Texas and Southern California. Mexico players were welcomed onto the field by cheers, the Americans mostly by boos. Berhalter promoted three key substitutes from the 3-1 semifinal victory over Jamaica on Thursday into the starting lineup. Haji Wright, who scored twice in extra time, lined up at striker; Reyna, who assisted on both of Wright’s goals, filled the playmaking role. Adams also received a starting nod after logging 37 minutes as a sub Thursday. But after the long layoff, the U. S. staff came to an agreement with Adams’s Premier League club, Bournemouth, to play him sparingly. The back line also underwent change as Tim Ream replaced Miles Robinson in the middle and Sergiño Dest started on the right corner after missing the semifinal with a red-card suspension. The Americans generated the first quality scoring opportunity when Reyna and left back Antonee Robinson combined to set up Christian Pulisic in the box in the fifth minute. Pulisic bore down on Guillermo Ochoa, but the 38-year-old goalkeeper slapped down the rising bid.


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Article Link: https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2024/03/24/usmnt-nations-league-champions-mexico/


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