USA Vs. El Salvador, 2012 Olympic Qualifying: Terrence Boyd Puts Americans In Front

It didn't take long for the United States to make their mark against El Salvador. Brek Shea pretty much unlocked the entire El Salvador defense single-handedly to set up the goal. Out on the left, El Salvador sent several defenders to him, but he danced through a couple then ran by one more to get to the endline, where he could cross. He spotted Terrence Boyd in front and while the cross was a bit behind him, Boyd did a fantastic job to finish it. He hot his foot behind him and redirected it on goal from close range, giving the Americans an early lead they so desperately need.

The U.S. had to be buoyed by Cuba's surprising draw against Canada that puts them top of Group A with a win tonight. That is vital because it will keep them from having to play Mexico in Saturday's semifinal, when a spot in the Olympics will be on the line. Before they can worry about that, though, they need to finish this match strong because if they do not win they are eliminated and there is no Saturday for them.