German Carty’s goal is the lone tally of the match so far, as Peru leads the U.S. 1-0 at halftime of their U.S. Cup ’97 match in San Diego.
Carty scored in the eighth minute, after Maldonado crossed the ball from outside the right edge of the box and over the U.S. defense. Carty headed past Brad Friedel to give Peru the lead.
The U.S. responded well, dominating play for the remainder of the half, but were unable to tie the match. Claudio Reyna and Preki have played well in midfield for the U.S.
The Americans had several good chances to score. After 11 minutes, Frankie Hejduk sent a fine pass on the ground from the right flank into the box, but Peruvian keeper Balerio made a gutsy diving save to thwart the onrushing Roy Lassiter. In the 15th minute, Brian McBride headed a corner kick straight to Balerio.
Lassiter had the best U.S. opportunity in the 25th minute. Preki hit a shot from about 30 yards out that deflected off of two Peruvian defenders and fell right to Lassiter, but the Tampa Bay Mutiny star’s hesitant low shot was saved by Balerio.
Referee Arturo Brizio Carter handed out just one yellow card — to Balerio in the 45th minute for delay of game.