Chicago, Ill. – Thrilling Gold Cup Opener between the United States and Jamaica. A hard-fought showdown ended with Brandon Vazquez to the rescue in the closing minutes for the United States leveled the score at 1-1 against Jamaica of Group A on Saturday night at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois.

Early action for the U.S. came from the Midfielder Alan Sonora, who made an early attempt at goal with a shot in the 8th minute, but Jamaica in the 13th minute, through a free-kick set piece from Demarai Gray into the box, where Damion Lowe hit a header to give Jamaica a 1-0 lead. 

The Reggae Boyz almost extended their lead in the 29th minute when Kevon Lambert fouled in the U.S. penalty area. But Leon Bailey's missed the penalty kick saved by U.S. goalkeeper Matt Turner and also missed the target on the rebound.

After the half, the U.S. kept the pressure on the defense, and Cristian Roldan came close to equalizing in the 71st minute, but Blake's quick reaction denied his shot.

The U.S. found their breakthrough in the 88th minute from Jesus Ferreira's cross that the Jamaican defense failed to clear out of the box Brandon Vazquez, who made no mistake about it, placed the ball to the back of the net, equalizing at 1-1. 

The United States will play their match against Saint Kitts and Nevis on Wednesday, June 28, at 9:30 p.m.

2023 Concacaf Gold Cup, Matt Turner, Andre Blake, Brandon Vazquez, United States, Jamaica, Damion Lowe, Leon Bailey, Gasner Delvarin Jr., Sports Action Rundown