The United States wrapped up their international window with a fourth consecutive victory after edging Canada 1-0 in a fiercely contested encounter.
The result capped a perfect four-match run for the USA, although the final game was far more physical and tightly fought than their previous outings. The match produced 43 fouls and four yellow cards, with neither side willing to give an inch in a heated regional contest.
After scoring freely earlier in the international window, the USA had to rely on a single goal to secure victory this time.
Ellis makes the difference
The Americans made several changes to the side that defeated Mexico on Saturday, with Chris Richards, Alex Freeman, Auston Trusty, Gio Reyna and Malik Tillman retaining their places.
Trusty, however, was deployed in a different position, operating on the left side, while George Campbell partnered Richards in central defence.
Justin Ellis was among the players brought into the starting XI after beginning the international break against Peru. He had scored early in that match and once again proved decisive against Canada.
Ellis was on the receiving end of a heavy challenge midway through the first half and appeared to struggle physically for the remainder of the period.
However, he showed his determination in the 29th minute.
Freeman delivered a dangerous effort towards goal, and Ellis reacted quickly to get on the end of it, turning the opportunity into the only goal of the match.
Canada unable to find an equaliser
The USA went into the interval with their narrow advantage intact.
Ellis did not return for the second half, with the forward among several players replaced at the break. Sebastian Berhalter, Sergiño Dest and Julian Hall were introduced as the Americans looked to maintain control.
Unlike their earlier matches during the window, the USA were unable to dominate possession or turn their lead into a more comfortable advantage.
Canada continued to compete aggressively and looked for openings, but the American defence held firm.
USA finish window with four straight wins
Brian Schwake played an important role in protecting the lead, making three saves as the USA successfully resisted Canada’s attempts to force an equaliser.
The final whistle confirmed a 1-0 USA victory, completing an outstanding international window for the Americans.
The four-match winning streak also included victories over two of the USA’s biggest regional rivals, Mexico and Canada, providing an impressive finish to the international break.
After producing plenty of goals in their earlier matches, the USA showed another side of their game against Canada — the ability to defend a narrow advantage under sustained pressure.
The Americans now head into their next fixtures with momentum firmly on their side after closing the international window with four consecutive victories.
