Christian Pulisic scored a hat-trick because the United States thrashed Panama five-1 on Sunday to all but stable their region at the 2022 World Cup.
While nonetheless not formally assured of a gap in Qatar, best an improbable six-intention midweek defeat to Costa Rica might prevent Gregg Berhalter's side from returning to the match after missing out 4 years ago.
Costa Rica's 2-1 win in El Salvador in advance in the day meant USA had been unable to join Canada in making really sure of their qualification, though they went about their business professionally in Orlando.
Pulisic opened the scoring inside the 17th minute from the spot after Anibal Godoy turned into penalised for grappling with Walker Zimmerman, and shortly after it was 2-0 as Paul Arriola headed in Antonee Robinson's shipping.
Jesus Ferreira made it 3-zero just earlier than the half-hour mark with a close-variety end and Pulisic ensured they went into the spoil four up thanks to his second penalty of the day – Godoy changed into again the guilty party, fouling Miles Robinson.
Pulisic completed his hat-trick in style with 65 minutes performed, generating a adorable touch to turn and then convert, though a past due Godoy consolation prevented Zack Steffen preserving a smooth sheet.
USA need most effective a factor on Wednesday to ensure they may be in Friday's World Cup draw, even though in reality they could lose 5-zero to fourth-located Costa Rica and nonetheless qualify because of their advanced goal difference.
FINAL: USA 5 - 1 PAN Time to finish the challenge in Costa Rica.#USAvPAN x @VW percent.Twitter.Com/9hmXoXAvnS
