Pepi’s Early Strike Secures USA Win Over Jamaica

Ricardo Pepi’s fifth-minute goal proved decisive as the United States secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Jamaica in the first leg of their Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal at the National Stadium in Kingston on Thursday.

The PSV Eindhoven forward exploited space on the right-hand side, firing into the far corner to give the Americans an early lead.

Despite creating several opportunities, the Reggae Boyz were unable to find an equaliser, with their best chance coming from the penalty spot.

In the 14th minute, US goalkeeper Matt Turner brought down Shamar Nicholson in the box after the striker powered through the defence. However, Turner redeemed himself by saving Demarai Gray’s resulting penalty kick.

The match took a dramatic turn in the 86th minute when Jamaica’s Mason Holgate was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, leaving the team to finish with 10 men.

The defeat marked the first loss for Jamaican coach Steve McClaren.

Jamaica showed improvement in the second half, managing to get behind the US defence on multiple occasions but failing to convert their chances. The return leg is scheduled for Monday in the United States.

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