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USA 5-1 Panama: Christian Pulisic's hat-trick propels his side to the brink of World Cup qualification before Wednesday's Costa Rica showdown

Chelsea attacker Christian Pulisic fired his first international hat-trick in USA's 5-1 win over Panama on Sunday night, leading his side to the brink of World Cup qualification for the first time since 2014.

Two of USA captain's goals came from the penalty spot before completing his treble with a stunning finish, spinning Panama defender Andres Andrade before converting from close range.

Only a loss of six or more goals in Wednesday night's finale at Costa Rica would cause the Americans not to get one of three automatic World Cup places in qualifying. They can finish no worse than fourth, which earns a June play-off, likely against New Zealand.