The U.S. entered Wednesday’s game needing a victory after an opening draw against Panama and Los Canaleros taking their second game against Nicaragua to go top of the group. Arena seemed confident against tiny Martinique, fielding a starting XI that featured 8 changes from the side that drew with Panama, and handing several players their first competitive start for the U.S.
The first half could charitably be called “disjointed.” The U.S. came out early pushing for a goal, dominating possession and shots in the opening 20 minutes. Juan Agudelo was at the center of most good moves for the U.