CONCACAF Gold Cup 2025: Shaky USA Seal Quarterfinal Spot With 1-0 Win Over Saudi Arabia

Last Updated:June 20, 2025, 11:25 IST

Chris Richards' goal secured a 1-0 win for the U.S. over Saudi Arabia, advancing them to the CONCACAF Gold Cup quarterfinals. Coach Pochettino kept the same lineup.

Chris Richards (C; 3) celebrating the goal that sent his team into the QF. (AP Photo)

Defender Chris Richards scored with a deft flick off a second-half free kick, propelling the United States to a 1-0 victory over Saudi Arabia on Thursday night and securing their spot in the CONCACAF Gold Cup quarterfinals.

Richards skillfully tracked the ball as it curved into the box from a 62nd-minute free kick by Sebastian Berhalter, tapping it with his left foot past Saudi goalkeeper Nawaf Al Aquidi.

This win, combined with the 1-1 draw between Trinidad and Tobago and Haiti in Group D’s other match in Houston, guaranteed a knockout stage berth for the Americans. They now have an impressive record of 42 wins, one loss, and five draws in group play.

The U.S., having topped their group in 16 of 17 Gold Cups, will conclude Group D play against Haiti on Sunday in Arlington, Texas.

USA Lacking Proven Firepower

U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino retained the same lineup that delivered a 5-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday, marking the first time he made no changes in consecutive matches since taking charge last October.

However, against 58th-ranked Saudi Arabia, the 16th-ranked Americans showcased little of the attacking prowess seen against the 100th-ranked Soca Warriors.

The match, held before 11,727 spectators in a half-full Q2 Stadium, saw few goal-scoring opportunities for either team.

The Americans managed only one shot in the first half, while Richards’ speed covered for Alex Freeman’s mistake to prevent Saudi Arabia from taking an early lead.

Pochettino Missing Starpower

Matt Freese earned his second consecutive start in goal for the U.S. and his third in four matches, seemingly having displaced Matt Turner.

The Gold Cup serves as the last competitive test for the Americans ahead of the 2026 World Cup. As co-hosts with Mexico and Canada, the U.S. automatically qualifies for the World Cup.

With many top players absent due to personal reasons, injuries, or participation in the Club World Cup, Pochettino selected a roster filled with relatively untested and unproven players.

Regulars missing from the tournament for the U.S. include Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah, Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, Gio Reyna, Antonee Robinson, Folarin Balogun, and Sergiño Dest.

With AP Inputs

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