The United States faced El Salvador on Saturday September 5, 2009 in CONCACAF 2010World Cup Qualifying. Both teams needed points from the match, especially El Salvador, who’s chances of qualification are slim have to get wins. The USA on the other hand is not in dire need but needs to get wins at home after losing to Mexico and the top four teams very close. The match took play at Rio Tinto Stadium near Salt Lake City, Utah. Here’s a recap and video highlights.

United States beats El Salvador 2-1 – Video Highlights

The USA came out aggressive and strong in the opening minutes but couldn’t get a lead. They lacked the finish needed in the final third and El Salvador was actually the first team to strike in the match. After defensive lapse where they didn’t clear, El Salvador scored as a cross was sent into to Cristian Castillo who headed it past goalkeeper Tim Howard. Howard also misplaced it by being a bit out of position but overall it was bad defense.

The United States responded strong after the 32nd goal by continuing to push forward and pressure the Salvadoran defense. A free kick sent in by Landon Donovan in the 41st minute and Clint Dempsey headed it past the goalkeeper as the defense was nowhere to be found. The USA kept getting chances and would score once more in the second minute of stoppage time. With only about 15 seconds left in the left, Donovan sent a cross into the box and Jozy Altidore headed it into the back of the net. He was unmarked and the Americans would head into halftime with a 2-1 lead.

The second half started with the United States still with the advantage. El Salvador threatened at times but the Americans were clearly the strong team overall. The next goal nearly came around the 57th minute when Altidore got a through ball and beat the goalkeeper but it was ruled a no goal. It was clearly onside (the flag stayed down) but the referee stuck with his call. It was a bad break for the United States as they could have made it 3-1 just 15 minutes into the second half.

The final 20 minutes was wide open as both teams got chances and the USA at times as scrambling defensively but they eventually held on. Tim Howard made a few key saves and there were no yellow cards so no players will be suspended for the Wednesday match. The injury concern will be Charlie Davies who left late in the second half with a calf injury but it doesn’t appear to be serious. The next match for the United States will be Trinidad and Tobago on Wednesday.