Earthquakes forward Chris Wondolowski helped lead the United States to a 2-0 victory over Cuba in their first friendly on Cuban soil since 1947.
Facing tough conditions, including a rugged, bumpy pitch, the Americans secured a victory as expected. Wondolowski entered the match at halftime, replacing 18-year-old phenom Christian Pulisic in a scoreless ballgame. Wondolowski needed just seventeen minutes to make a difference, firing home a rebound that found the top corner of Cuba’s goal. It marked his 11th career goal for the United States, first since July 2015 and the first he’s scored in an away match.
Wondo wasn’t done contributing, however, as he added an assist to Julian Green nine minutes later. Receiving a ball into the box, he drew the goalkeeper out, picked up his head and found Green at the back post for a tap-in.
Wondolowski’s goal was his third game-winner for the red, white and blue, along with one he scored against Belize as part of a hat-trick on July 9, 2013 and one as part of a brace against South Korea on February 1, 2014.
The Americans return to action at 5 p.m. PT on Tuesday, October 11 against New Zealand at RFK Stadium in Washington D.C. Potentially three Earthquakes could make an appearance in the match, with Wondolowski and goalkeeper David Bingham suiting up for the USA and defender Kip Colvey joining the Kiwis. The match will be broadcast live on ESPN.
