The United States and Costa Rica had previously clinched spots in the quarterfinal round of the CONCACAF Gold Cup but with the top spot in Group C still up for grabs, both teams looked for added momentum heading into the next stage.
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Chris Wondolowski has been on fire for the USMNT -- recording a tournament high 5 goals -- but thanks to another strong performance by the Costa Rican defensive unit, the star striker and his offense were held scoreless throughout the entire first half.
The U.S. did lead the shot attempt category for most of regulation time, firing off 10 shots to Costa Rica's 5, but even though the U.S. -- who were looking for an eigth-consecutive victory -- seemed to have a strong level of offensive cohesiveness going, Costa Rica would not lessen the pressure.
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When Brek Shea of the United States finally broke a scoreless tie in the 82nd minute, the USMNT had another lead and were on their way to a thrilling victory.
The goal for Shea was his first international goal and it propelled the squad to an eighth-straight victory while locking up Group C. The only team to win all three of their opening round games, the USMNT now prepares to take on El Salvador in the quarterfinals.
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