USMNT Leads 1-0 in Nations League Quarterfinal

The United States men's national soccer team secured a 1-0 victory over Jamaica in the first leg of their CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal, with Ricardo Pepi scoring early thanks to an assist from Christian Pulisic, who played a central attacking role under new coach Mauricio Pochettino. Despite Jamaica's strong performance, including a missed penalty by Demarai Gray and a late red card for Mason Holgate, the USMNT held on, with goalkeeper Matt Turner making several crucial saves. This win marks Pochettino's second victory in his first three games in charge, as he aims to lead the team to success in the 2026 World Cup, which the USA will co-host. The USMNT, though missing key players like Folarin Balogun and Tyler Adams, showcased their depth by relying on emerging talents like Pepi and Pulisic. The second leg will take place in St. Louis, where the U.S. will look to capitalize on their lead and advance to the semifinals, maintaining their record as the only team to win the Nations League. Jamaica, under Steve McClaren, will need to regroup and utilize their attacking strengths, including Leon Bailey, to overturn the deficit.