The United States Men's National Soccer team captain Clint Dempsey, known simply to the world as "Captain America" single handedly helped the U.S. open up their Gold Cup title defense on Tuesday.
Dempsey scored a double with goals in the 25th and 64th minutes as the United States hung on to defeat Honduras 2-1 in a very intense and physical match.
The match was touted as the Stars and Stripes toughest test in Group A which also features Panama and Haiti who played to a 1-1 draw earlier in the day. Honduras is a World Cup qualifier, and play a style of soccer that could have been detrimental to America.
Honduras was tenacious, organized, and played spectacular defense that disrupted the United States attack.
Dempsey opened the scoring in his home state of Texas in the 25th minute after a header in the center of the box found the back of the net, inspiring the 22,357 in attendance to sing a rendition of "Deep in the Heart of Texas."
Los Catrachos came out with plenty of energy, and tested the United States at multiple times throughout the first half.
Chris Wondowloski from the San Jose Earthquakes of the MLS started the second half in place of forward Jozy Altidore and created plenty of chances in the second half.
Michael Bradley found Dempsey in the 64th minute off of a set piece. Bradley's cross was right on target for Dempsey who easily headed it home for his second goal, and the United States had found a weakness in the Honduran defense: corner kicks.
Carlos Discua scored five minutes later after a great pass by Honduras found Discua in stride who blew past Ventura Alvarado for the goal.
The United States will next play against Haiti on Friday at Gillette Stadium.
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