Americans score late to deny Canada a draw
CARSON, California — Jozy Altidore scored with a header late in the second half as the United States beat Canada’s men’s national soccer 1-0 on Friday night at StubHub Center.
Altidore had been dangerous all night with a number of scoring chances and was rewarded in the 89th minute when he was fed a perfect cross by Ethan Finlay, who had just come off the bench.
Canada, ranked 85th in the world, was preparing for two key games against Mexico next month against the No. 32 Americans after training for a few weeks in California.
Altidore, who plays in the MLS with Toronto FC, had a chance in the 17th minute when he had a tight-angled shot from the right come back off the post before Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau grabbed the ball.
Canada came back the other way a few minutes later and it led to a moment of contention as the Canadians had a decent shout for a penalty. Forward Cyle Larin corralled a cross and, though he could have been called for a handball, the play continued with Larin getting the ball close to the area. American defender Jermaine Jones attempted to get the ball off Larin, but looked to have fouled him instead. The play was very close to the edge of the penalty area so it could have been a foul just outside the area or a penalty, but nothing was given.
From there the Americans piled on the pressure and Canada looked a little out of sorts at the back. But the Canadians were let off the hook by some poor American finishing and some great work from Crepeau of the Montreal Impact.
Adam Straith of Victoria, moved from his normal defender position up to midfield to replace missing Atiba Hutchison, started for Canada and earned his 33rd cap. Former Victoria Highlanders players Jamar Dixon and Matt Polster were dressed for Canada and the U.S., respectively.
After picking up four points to open the fourth round of World Cup qualifying late last year, Canada is in second place in their group that also features Mexico, El Salvador and Honduras.