It was a night of firsts on Sunday as the United States men’s national team controlled and defeated Canada 2-0 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas Sunday evening.
From the blow of the first whistle, the USMNT and Canada both brought an attacking prowess to the match, flying up and down both wings and providing multiple chances inside of the box during the first ten minutes of the match. The United States would match the Canadian intensity early, making the game fast paced and back-and-forth early.
Though it wouldn't take long for the United States to execute.
Center Back Chris Richards netted his first international goal for the United States in the 11th minute off of a sublime cross from a Gio Reyna corner kick.
Bayern Munich and Canada superstar Alfonso Davies attacked the United States defense with his blistering pace up the left hand wing the entire evening. Forward Jonathan David penetrated the heart of the United States back line, but they were resilient by not allowing one goal and scoring five within their last two Nations League matches to cap off their second consecutive Nations League Final.
Arsenal and Reims striker Folarin Balogun made his second start for the United States and made impressive runs through the Canadian back line all night long, eventually leading to his first goal for team in the 35th minute from another beautiful through-ball from Gio Reyna.
The United States would continue to assert pressure on the Canadian offense and forced mistakes that lead to multiple chances in the second half for the United States. Ultimately, the Canadians couldn’t provide enough offense to match the United States firepower.
After now winning three consecutive federation trophies, the United States men’s national team shift their focuses towards a fourth when they compete for the Gold Cup against Jamaica on June 24th.