USMNT edges Jamaica to earn first leg road victory

The U.S. men’s national team placed one foot into the CONCACAF Nations League semifinals.

Ricardo Pepi’s first-half goal paired with Matt Turner’s two-save shutout helped Mauricio Pochettino’s squad earn 1-0 first leg quarterfinal victory over Jamaica in Kingston on Thursday. Christian Pulisic set up Pepi for the breakthrough goal after five minutes while the Americans defended valiantly to keep the Reggae Boyz off the scoresheet.

Pepi made the most of his first USMNT start in 12 months by giving the Americans an early 1-0 lead. Christian Pulisic picked up a pass in midfield before playing a through ball pass upfield for Pepi to drill home.

It marked Pepi’s 12th international goal across all competitions.

Jamaica had a golden opportunity to tie the match in the 14th minute after Matt Turner brought down Shamar Nicholson in the box for a penalty kick. However, Turner dove to his right to punch away Demarai Gray’s effort to keep the Americans in front.

Mauricio Pochettino was forced to his bench before the 30-minute mark as midfielder Johnny Cardoso was substituted off due to an apparent injury. Cardoso, who entered camp on a strong run of form, will now wait to learn his diagnosis ahead of Monday’s second leg.

Jamaica began to up its offensive pressure as the first half continued, with Kasey Palmer being denied by Turner in the 36th minute.

Renaldo Cephas and Issac Hayden both missed on their second-half opportunities while Nicholson and Mason Holgate had chances blocked by the USMNT.

Jamaica’s comeback chances took a hit before stoppage time as Holgate was sent off after receiving a second yellow card.

The USMNT would hang on for a slim road victory, putting one foot into March’s semifinal round.

St. Louis’ Energizer Park will play host to Monday’s second leg between the USMNT and the Reggae Boyz.