Despite a fast start from Mexico, the United States leads the 2011 Gold Cup Final after nine minutes, thanks to a goal from the coach's son, Michael Bradley. Bob's bold move to play Freddy Adu has already paid off big time, as Adu helped set up the goal in multiple ways. Even Bradley couldn't have counted on getting a lead this early, while 'Chepo' Jose Manuel de la Torre has been left stunned, as El Tri will have to come from behind.
Gold Cup Final 2011 Score, USA Vs. Mexico: Michael Bradley Goal, Freddy Adu Assist Gives USMNT Lead
The goal came on a corner kick, created by Adu and Steve Cherundolo. Despite Mexico's swarming defense, Adu and Cherundolo combined well and kept the ball in a dangerous area for a good 30 seconds before Cherundolo eventually put the ball off Carlos Salcido to earn a corner kick. Adu stepped up to take the corner and hit an in-swinging ball to the near post, which Bradley ran onto. He hit a flicked header on target which Alfredo Talavera got a hand to, but couldn't keep out. The Mexican keeper probably should have been better, but the USMNT won't mind as they've taken a massive 1-0 lead.
For more on how the two teams got to this point, check out our USA vs. Panama stream and our Mexico vs. Honduras stream. For more updates leading up to USA vs. Mexico, bookmark this StoryStream. For all of our previous Gold Cup coverage, check out the Gold Cup 2011 section. For more on Mexican football, including the Mexican national team, the Mexico vs. USA game, and the Mexican Primera, check out SB Nation’s Mexican football blog FMF State Of Mind.
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