Thanks to a sharp curl from the Toronto FC midfielder in the 27’, the U.S. was able to take a 1-0 lead on Panama on the Olimpico.
Jozy Altidore was poised to head the service to the net on the back post, but wound up getting tangled with the defense as the ball curled inward.
Clint Dempsey went on to score in the 37’ to give the USMNT a 2-0 lead at the half.