Wednesday, November 22nd, 2023.- In a match that proved to be quite challenging, the United States secured their second victory in the CP Football competition by defeating Venezuela 1-0. They were clearly superior throughout the game but could only secure the win with a goal from Shea Hammond eight minutes before the end.
The North Americans dominated the actions for practically the entire 60 minutes of play. If the score remained blank, it was because their forwards were not precise, but primarily due to the outstanding performance of the Venezuelan goalkeeper, Cristián Moreno, who saved his goal on at least five clear occasions.
Overall, all statistics reflect North American superiority: 13 shots on target compared to one from the South Americans, and while Moreno made 10 saves, the United States goalkeeper, Sean Boyle, had only one intervention.
Despite this, the score remained level until Hammond scored the decisive goal in the 52nd minute, putting his team very close to a place in the semifinals.
"It was a tough match; Venezuela was a very competitive opponent, but fortunately, we managed to score the goal we were seeking throughout the game," said the American John Sullivan.
The United States will conclude their group stage participation against Canada, while Venezuela will face the strong favorite, Brazil.
Written by Rodrigo Vargas - Alejandro Pérez; translated by Rocio Rojas / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport
Ph: Andrés Piña / Santiago 2023 vía Photosport