The United State’s Men’s National Team only needed a draw to win their Gold Cup group, but was able to secure all three points in unmemorable 1-0 win, save for a Jozy Altidore bicycle kick, match against Panama.
The USMNT and Panama both entered the last match of group play knowing that they were moving on to the knockout round. With qualification assured, but first place up for grabs, both teams fielded squads made up of mostly backups. U.S. head coach Gregg Berhalter selected a totally new starting lineup, replacing all 11 players from the 6-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago, while Panama’s Julio Dely Valdes brought in nine new players following their 4-2 win over Guyana.