The United States came out victorious 1-0 over Iran in an extremely heated contest. The 1-0 win secures a place in the knockout stage for the USMNT, setting up a match with the Netherlands.
A 38th-minute goal by Christian Pulisic, set up by Sergiño Dest, was the difference-maker. However, Pulisic was injured while scoring and had to be taken off at halftime.
The second half was very much even to start, but Iran seized control of possession in the last 20 minutes of the game. The late Iranian push was stifled by a stout United States defense led by their new CB pairing of Cameron Carter-Vickers and Tim Ream.
Expected goals (xG): United States 1.28, Iran 0.93
Man of the Match: Tyler Adams, United States
To no surprise, Adams showed up with a great all-around performance for the United States in what was their most important game yet. He completed 89% of his passes, with 63 of his 71 passes finding their mark. This included nine line-breaking passes.
Adams also won five tackles and two aerial duels, and he blocked two passes and one cross to help close out the game for the United States.
Best Passer: Tim Ream, United States
Ream was great on the ball for the United States, completing 93.1% of the passes he attempted. He only misplaced four passes all game, completing 54 of 58 passes out of the back. He completed all three line-breaking passes, showing that his experience is vital for the second-youngest team in this tournament.
Best Challenger: Majid Hosseini, Iran
Hosseini was a force both in the air and on the ground, winning five of the seven aerial duels he was involved in throughout the game. He also won four tackles and defended one dribble successfully.
Standout performer: Christian Pulisic, USA
Despite being pulled at halftime for an injury he sustained while scoring what would become the game-winner, Pulisic had an impactful first half. He completed two more dribbles, bringing his tournament total to eight completed dribbles. He also won one foul yesterday, bringing his total to 12 fouls won for the tournament.
The Chelsea man now sits tied for third in dribbles completed and third for fouls won this tournament. However, his crossing has left something to be desired, as he has now completed just two of his 24 crosses.
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