PHILADELPHIA, Penn. -- The U.S. men's national team is headed to the semifinals of the 2017 Gold Cup courtesy of a 2-0 victory over El Salvador. First-half goals from Omar Gonzalez and Eric Lichaj gave the U.S. the lead it needed and despite a few anxious moments in the second half, the home side was able to see out the match.
Here are three thoughts from the Americans' victory.
1. U.S. keeps emotions in check to advance
For the vast majority of the first half, the style and emotion fit El Salvador's game-plan. There was plenty of off-the-ball shenanigans, with no shortage of scratching, clawing, and yes: even apparent biting and pinching.