The USA claimed first place in Gold Cup Group C on Tuesday following their 2-0 win against Canada.
On home soil in Detroit, the Stars and Stripes managed to have long spells in possession, but their opportunities on goal were limited. The USA nonetheless took the lead on 15 minutes as Jozy Altidore ran onto Landon Donovan's through ball and fired a low drive that slipped under Lars Hirschfeld's arms and into the net.
Canada were improved in the second half and took the game to their oponents, but suffered a fatal blow as the US managed to double their advantage against the run of play. After being released by Donovan, Altidore delivered a low cross that the sliding Clint Dempsey met at the far post.
Shortly after Dempsey's goal, the Canucks nearly got a goal back through Ali Gerba, who fired a blistering attempt on goal, but was denied by Tim Howard. The American goalkeeper was in immense form on the night, and with five minutes to go, made a pair of blocks inside the six-yard box, followed by a stunning reaction save from Gerba's 10-yard drive. In the end, Canada had no answer for Howard's heroics, and had to come to terms with a disappointing loss.
The result sees the USMNT draw level on points with Panama atop Group C, but their margin of victory means the United States have a slight edge atop the standings. Canada are fourth, but will have a chance to overtake Guadeloupe in their next match, on Saturday.
