A 117th minute-winner from Miles Robinson helped the United States edge Mexico 1-0 in the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup final at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Sunday. The win seals the US’ seventh Gold Cup title and a memorable summer double over their southern neighbours, the traditional football powerhouse of the North American continent, after beating them in June’s Nations League.
The winning goal came from a free kick, with Atlanta United centre back Robinson rising above Edson Alvarez to nod home Kelly Acosta’s cross from the left wing. This was 24-year-old Robinson’s second goal of the tournament and his third international goal in nine appearances.
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This was the fifth consecutive game that the US won with a 1-0 scoreline, including all the knockout ties. American goalkeeper Matt Turner got his fifth clean sheet of the tournament and earned the Golden Glove award.
This was only the second time the USA beat Mexico in a final in seven attempts. The win extends the American’s winning run to nine overall and 14 at in home games.
Both teams were lacking a number of their European stars, with the likes of Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic, Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie missing for the USMNT, while Wolves striker Raul Jimenez and Napoli winger Hirving Lozano were among the absentees for El Tri.
The cagey affair was tightly-contested in normal time, with Turner the busier of the two goalkeepers in front of a mostly Mexican fans.
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USA captain Paul Arriola missed a great chance to take the lead following an error by Alvarez, but the DC United player hit the outside of the post.
Mexico striker Funes Mori then drew a couple of fine save from New England Revolution stopper Turner. Atletico Madrid midfielder Hector Herrera was lucky to not see red, receiving only a yellow after a dangerous high-boot midway through the second half.
The Mexicans dominated possession throughout the match, but the Americans stayed firm and forced extra-time, where they managed to find a winner.
