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USA Edges Saudi Arabia to Secure Gold Cup Quarterfinal Spot

Posted : 20 June 2025

The United States sealed their place in the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Gold Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in Austin on Thursday night. After cruising past Trinidad and Tobago with a dominant 5-0 win in their opener, the Americans faced a much sterner challenge against a disciplined Saudi side.

 

Chris Richards emerged as the hero with a 63rd-minute goal, ensuring the hosts claimed the three points and continued their unbeaten run in Group D.

 

The first half was largely uneventful as Saudi Arabia sat deep and defended compactly, frustrating a U.S. side that struggled to find any attacking rhythm. However, the second half saw a marked improvement from the Americans, who pushed forward with more intent.

 

Richards had already gone close with a header from a Jack McGlynn cross before eventually finding the breakthrough. It came via a set piece, as Sebastian Berhalter delivered a teasing free kick that Richards met with a well-timed half-volley to break the deadlock.

 

Tensions flared late in the game when USA substitute Tyler Adams was pushed to the ground, prompting a scuffle between players. Saudi coach Herve Renard and U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino both entered the pitch to restore order.

 

Despite the flare-up, the USA showed defensive discipline and composure to see out the win, a marked improvement from the poor form that had plagued them before the tournament, where they had suffered four consecutive defeats.

 

Post-match, Richards reflected on the gritty performance, highlighting the physical nature of CONCACAF fixtures. “It was a tough game against a tough opponent, but we got it done,” he said. “Sometimes you've got to get physical, sometimes you gotta get nasty.” With six points from two matches, the USA now top Group D and will face Haiti on Sunday, while Saudi Arabia sit second with three points, ahead of Haiti and Trinidad and Tobago, who each have one.

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