The USA qualified for the World Cup in Qatar despite losing by two goals to San Jose ∙ Costa Rica. Costa Rica beat USA by two goals to nil in a thrilling match. In another match, Mexico defeated El Salvador 2-1 to advance to the World Cup.
Canada had already qualified with 28 points from the Concacaf region. Canada tops Qatar in first place in CONCACAF qualifying round Mexico also have 28 points but are second in goal average. Mexico’s qualification for the World Cup has been a regular feature of all World Cups since 1994.
Costa Rica, who could have qualified directly if they beat the USA by at least six goals, must play in the playoffs to secure World Cup qualification with a 2–0 victory. The USA and Costa Rica have 25 points each in the points table, but the USA qualified for the third place with a goal-scoring prowess. Costa Rica’s opponents in the playoffs are New Zealand.
The USA failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia following their shock defeats to Trinidad and Tobago. Forgetting the disappointment of this, Christian Police and his team are coming to Qatar for the World Cup. Captain Christian Pulisic’s hat-trick helped Panama to a 5–1 victory over Panama last night.
English Summary: Mexico, USA clinch FIFA World Cup berths