USA Grinds Out 1–0 Victory Over Saudi Arabia to Secure Knockout Spot in Gold Cup

Danny Jefferson | June 19th, 2025

AUSTIN, TX —The United States Men’s National Team edged Saudi Arabia 1–0 in a disciplined and hard-fought Group D match at Q2 Stadium during the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup. In front of a vocal crowd of 11,727, the Americans delivered a gritty performance in hot, humid conditions to clinch a place in the quarterfinals with a game still to play.

From kickoff, it was clear that this wasn’t going to be a free-flowing shootout. Both teams came out compact and cautious. The first half was scrappy, with few clear-cut chances. The U.S. had just two shots in the opening 45 minutes, and Saudi Arabia wasn’t much more dangerous on the other end. The back line, led by Chris Richards and veteran Tim Ream, did well to absorb pressure and limit any real threats on goal. Freese, starting in net for the U.S., wasn’t forced into a save in the first half, thanks to timely blocks and disciplined shape from the defenders.

The breakthrough came midway through the second half in the 63rd minute. Sebastian Berhalter, earning just his third international cap, sent in a sharp set piece from the left side. Richards made a perfectly timed run to meet the ball, sliding in front of the Saudi defense and redirecting it low into the net. The goal—his second for the national team—was a product of smart execution and a rare defensive lapse by the Saudis.

Following the goal, the U.S. leaned into game management. They dictated possession for much of the final 30 minutes, ultimately finishing with over 65% of the ball. Midfielders Malik Tillman and Jack McGlynn put in hard shifts to help keep Saudi Arabia pinned back and unable to build any momentum. The Americans added a couple more shots on goal but seemed content to defend their lead and see the result out.

Credit goes to the U.S. for keeping their composure late. The game grew physical in the final stretch with several fouls and stoppages, but the Americans didn’t get baited into mistakes. Their ability to stay focused and organized, even when the pace slowed and frustrations rose, is a testament to the team’s growth and maturity.

Statistically, it was a match defined by control and discipline. The U.S. outshot Saudi Arabia 6–3 and won the corner battle 4–2. Richards’ goal was the difference on the scoreboard, but the work rate off the ball and the ability to limit Saudi Arabia to just one shot on target speaks volumes about the defensive shape and collective effort.

With the win, the U.S. moves to the top of Group D and officially secures a spot in the knockout stage—extending their streak of quarterfinal appearances in every Gold Cup they’ve entered. Up next, they’ll face Costa Rica in the quarters, a familiar opponent who brings its own challenges. Saudi Arabia, despite the loss, also advances and will meet Mexico in a high-profile matchup.

This victory also marked the first match back after the All-Star break, and it served as a solid tune-up for what’s ahead. While the performance wasn’t flashy, it was effective—something that bodes well as the tournament tightens and the margin for error shrinks. For a U.S. squad missing some of its biggest names, the ability to rely on emerging contributors like Berhalter and Richards is a promising sign heading into the business end of the Gold Cup.