USA Triumphs Over Canada in Dramatic CONCACAF Gold Cup Quarterfinals Shootout - USMNT advances to Semifinals
In a thrilling quarterfinal match at the 2023 Gold Cup, the United States emerged victorious over Canada in a penalty shootout after a tense 2-2 draw. Matt Turner played a crucial role, saving two penalty kicks during the shootout. The match itself was an extraordinary display of unpredictability and chaos, even by CONCACAF standards. Unique and wild moments abounded, and all four goals were scored in the latter stages of the game, starting from the 87th minute.
Brandon Vazquez seemed to have secured a late winner for the United States just two minutes before regulation time expired. However, Canada capitalized on a Miles Robinson handball in stoppage time, with Steven Vitoria converting the ensuing penalty to level the score and force extra time.
Both teams found the net again in the late stages of extra time. Jacob Shaffelburg, a substitute for Canada, put his team in front, only to see their advantage vanish moments later due to a Scott Kennedy own goal.
During the penalty shootout, Matt Turner showcased his skill and composure, denying Canada's attempts. Cade Cowell, Gianluca Busio, and Jesus Ferreira successfully converted their penalties for the USMNT. The decisive moment arrived when Charles-Andreas Brym struck the crossbar, securing the victory for the United States.
The match got off to an unusual start with an injury to an assistant referee in the opening minute, leading to a 10-minute delay. This incident set the tone for the entire 120+ minutes, characterized by stretches of unimpressive play from both sides. Notably, the match featured two VAR reviews for handball, with the first appeal denied and the second upheld.
Having secured their spot in the semifinals, the United States now faces the challenge of playing against Panama in less than 72 hours. Following such a grueling encounter, the USMNT will need to regroup quickly. The semifinal clash is scheduled to kick off at 8:00 p.m. ET on Wednesday at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, California.