Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Weston McKennie scored for the United States as they beat Mexico 2-0 in Cincinnati, Ohio in a World Cup qualifier.
Minutes after being brought off the bench, Pulisic scored the U.S.'s first goal with a glancing header. McKennie also scored from close range just before full-time to give America its third consecutive win over CONCACAF counterparts Mexico.
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Due to their superior goal difference, the U.S. is now first in CONCACAF qualifying standings. They defeated Mexico 3-2 last June in the Nations League final and beat El Tri by 1-0 at the Gold Cup decider two month later.
The opening 20 minutes were entertaining and ended in a draw. Zack Steffen kept out Hirving Lozano's low drive, while Guillermo Ochoa blocked Zack Steffen's shot from the distance.
As the second half progressed, the frenetic pace was not slowed down. However, neither Mexico nor America could score as they went into the break tied at 0-0.
McKennie saved Ochoa during a lively start of the second period for the home team. He smashed the ball onto frame after Weah had picked him up at the top penalty area with a nice cutback.
After a brawl involving Brenden Aaronson, McKennie, Steffen, and Mexico's Luis Rodriguez were all given yellow cards, McKennie was among them. Due to yellow card accrual, McKennie was given a caution.
As the U.S. chased a goal, Gregg Berhalter called on Pulisic for Aaronson minutes later. The Chelsea player made his debut for the Americans after sustaining an ankle injury in September's match against Honduras.
This move was a huge success for the U.S., as Pulisic rose to receive a precise cross from Weah just outside the six-yard box. He then headed past Ochoa to give hosts a 1-0 lead.
A lot of good interplay by the U.S. led them to their second goal. McKennie was in the penalty area when McKennie received the ball. Ochoa was the only one to stop McKennie from doubling the lead.
Gerardo "Tata” Martino, Mexico's manager, admitted defeat but stated that his team was focused on World Cup qualification.
Martino stated that "We are playing at World Cup qualifying. This isn't an individual head-to-head match against the United States." "I am aware of the importance and rivalry, and three consecutive defeats against an enemy that all Mexicans want to beat is unacceptable.
"We need to concentrate on finding a way for us to regain our form during the qualifying."
Miles Robinson received a second yellow card in the final minutes of the match. The U.S. ended the match with 10 players. Atlanta United's defender will not be available against Jamaica.
At the halfway point CONCACAF's Octagonal World Cup qualifying processes, the U.S. holds 14 points from seven games. This puts them level with Mexico on points but ahead in goal difference.
