US defeat Canada to complete perfect international break
LOS ANGELES: The United States completed a perfect international break with a 1-0 victory over Canada on Tuesday, with 19-year-old Justin Ellis scoring the decisive goal.
The result gave the US four wins from four friendly matches during the international window. The team had previously defeated Mexico, Chile and Peru.
Ellis, who had already scored on his international debut against Peru, found the net again in the first half. The teenager turned Alex Freeman’s effort into the goal in the 29th minute after Freeman combined with Malik Tillman before entering the penalty area.
The victory was another positive sign for US head coach Mauricio Pochettino, who has been giving opportunities to younger players as he looks to build a stronger squad for the future.
Seven of the United States’ 12 goals across the four matches were scored by teenagers, while 13 players made their international debuts during the post-World Cup window.
Pochettino said the combination of experienced players and emerging young talent gives the United States reason to be optimistic about the future.
The US made six changes to its starting lineup against Canada, but the visitors still managed to maintain their competitive level despite Canada controlling much of the attacking play.
Canada created several opportunities, particularly after the interval. Its best chance came in the 63rd minute when Luc de Fougerolles struck a volley from a free kick, but goalkeeper Brian Schwake reacted quickly to push the effort onto the crossbar.
Nathan Saliba also sent a dangerous cross across the face of goal, but no Canadian player was able to connect with it.
The match became physical at times, with several fouls and yellow cards during a tense first half. Ellis, who was visibly struggling with an injury, continued playing before being replaced at half-time.
The United States introduced more young players as the match progressed, including 20-year-old Cole Campbell, who became the 13th American to make his debut during the international window.
Canada continued to press for an equaliser, but the US defence held firm to secure another clean sheet and complete a memorable four-match winning run.
Pochettino said the depth of young talent available to the United States could help the team compete more strongly against the world’s leading national sides in the coming years.
