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Thu, Aug 21st 2008, 13:32

USA takes qualifier 1-0

The US earned a hard fought 1-0 win over Guatemala in Guatemala City last night in the semifinal round of World Cup qualifying. Both sides were reduced to 10 men before US captain Carlos Bocanegra gave the US all the offense they would need when he lost his man on a corner and headed in the DeMarcus Beasely cross.

Mo entered the game to shore up the defensive midfield in the 78th minute and played well to help the US hold on for a much needed, and well deserved 3 points.

“It was a very hard fought game, and for us a hard earned three points,” said U.S. head coach Bob Bradley. “The win is based more on the determination of our team. Sometimes it’s necessary to win games in that way. It was a game where we relied on the effort, team spirit, and the mentality of the group. Our experienced players have made the point to the team that qualifying is always difficult away from home. You have to expect games to be very tough. We have played some tough games in the last year, but none of them are qualifiers. To experience it and to win in that fashion is good for the group.”

Mo’s appearance marked his first cap in World Cup qualifying play. Mo is still awaiting word on his work permit to play in Scotland for the Glasgow Rangers, a decision that could come as soon as tomorrow. If the transfer does go through, Mo could be stateside again when the US Men’s National Team suits up for their next qualifier in Havana vs. Cuba on Sept. 6. That match can be seen live on ESPN2 at 8 p.m. ET.

Full match recap