Ricardo Pepi scored and assisted on three goals as the United States beat Honduras 4-1 in a World Cup qualifying match. Christian Pulisic was unable to continue due to injury.
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After two draws, the USMNT's victory in San Pedro Sula is its first win. This result opens up eight teams to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Pepi (18, FC Dallas star) was the standout player during his international debut. He became the second youngest USMNT participant to play in a World Cup qualifier after Pulisic.
Brayan Maya scored Honduras's goal in the 27th minute. This was after a one-sided half, as the Catrachos dominated the Estadio Olimpico Metropolitano.
After the halftime break, Gregg Berhalter, U.S. manager, made several lineup changes including the introduction of Antonee Robinson. This 48-minute shot was taken off Pepi’s initial attempt to equalize the match.
Pulisic was replaced in the 62nd minute after it became apparent that he had sustained an injury. After a challenge, Pulisic fell to the ground and needed medical attention. He then tried to sprint using a dribble to help him. Cristian Roldan replaced him.
Pepi scored the second goal for the U.S. in the 75th minute, when he headed in DeAndre Yadlin's cross.
Brenden Aaronson sealed the deal with a shot in the final minute. Sebastian Lletget scored in stoppage time. Both goals were set up by Pepi.
Mexico is the leader of the eight-team table with seven, followed by Panama and Canada with five each. Honduras, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Jamaica have two points each. Jamaica has none. The top three teams will be eligible for the 2022 World Cup, while the fourth placed team will go through a playoff to secure a place in Qatar.
