The U.S. national team turned in an outstanding first half, but had to endure a nerve-wracking final 45 minutes to defeat Ecuador and reach the Copa America's final four.
SEATTLE — For 45 minutes on Thursday night, the U.S. national team looked like a team ready to cruise into the Copa America semifinals, making things appear almost easy in outplaying Ecuador through the first half.
We were quickly reminded, however, that this U.S. team doesn't do things easily.
The U.S. followed up an excellent first half with a frenetic final 45 minutes, as a questionable red card to Jermaine Jones turned the match into a 10-on-10 track meet, which suited the speedy and desperate Ecuadorians.