The U.S. had to do without team captain Christian Pulisic, who was out with a calf injury. But that didn't stop the Americans from continuing their impressive high-pressing game in the first match.
The reward also came in the eleventh minute.
Folarin Balogun came down the left wing and sent a hard pass in front of the goal. Cameron Burgess tried to clear it, but the ball went into his own net.
After the goal, the U.S. continued to press and created several chances. Just before halftime, the host nation increased its lead to 2–0 when Alex Freeman got to the ball first with his head after a corner.
After a goalless second half, promotion was secured. The U.S. will play the World Cup playoffs at home.
