In a landmark friendly match held in Kansas City, Missouri, Canada triumphed over the USA with a 2-1 victory, marking their first road win against the U.S. since 1957.
Canadian forwards Jacob Shaffelburg and Jonathan David found the back of the net in the 17th and 58th minutes, capitalizing on the USA's defensive lapses. The visitors demonstrated their dominance with 17 shot attempts to USA's 8, 7 shots on target to 5, and 7 corner kicks to 2.
USA's Luca de la Torre narrowed the gap by scoring in the 66th minute, attempting to rally the home crowd. Over the 99-year history, the two teams have clashed 27 times on U.S. soil, with Canada only claiming two victories, the latest being today.
Jesse Marsch, who took the helm as Canada's coach in May, shared insights post-match. Having previously interviewed for the USA's coaching position in 2023, Marsch expressed his satisfaction with leading Canada. \"I'd much rather coach Canada than the U.S. right now,\" Marsch stated. He praised the Canadian team's developed mentality, their passion for representing the national team, and their commitment to excellence.
USA's interim coach Mikey Varas attributed the loss to the players' lack of proper mentality on the field. \"The mentality is on the players. They know it,\" Varas told reporters. He emphasized that while coaches can influence training intensity, the drive to fight, run, and sacrifice rests with the players themselves.
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Coach on USA's historic home loss to Canada: Right mentality lacking
cgtn.com
