The Tyler Adams goal vs Mexico during Sunday’s Concacaf Nations League final will go down as one of the best in the rivalry between the two North American rivals.
The United States men's national team defeated Mexico 2-0 yet again to lift the continental trophy.
The context behind Adams' goal only adds to its lore. He was making his first start for the USMNT in 475 days after a major hamstring injury that required multiple surgeries. He was a surprise start against Mexico as many expected Johnny Cardoso to be in the starting XI.
The 25-year-old has only made two substitute appearances for Bournemouth this season due to the injury.
Adams was only ever going to get limited minutes against Mexico as he’s still recovering and easing into being 100% healthy from his injury. After putting in a solid 45-minute shift he left the best for last with his final touch.
A screamer from distance.
Tyler Adams goal vs Mexico
TYLER ADAMS FROM THE PARKING LOT ARE YOU FOR REAL??? pic.twitter.com/ZrK7PoxCST
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) March 25, 2024
Adams isn’t a goal scorer. The star defensive midfielder rarely takes shots, let alone from over 25 yards away.
His last goal for club or country was in January 2021. He’s only ever scored eight times in over 250 career games. For him to produce this screamer in his long-awaited return is the stuff of legends.
One crazy stat is that Sunday's goal is only his second-ever for the USMNT. His one other goal? A game-winner vs. Mexico in 2018.
Adams — likely to his displeasure — was substituted at halftime for Cardoso as Berhalter managed his minutes to avoid another injury setback.
The USMNT were able to extend their lead vs. Mexico in the second half with a goal from Gio Reyna to win the Concacaf Nations League for a third time in-a-row.
GIO REYNA. DOS A CERO. pic.twitter.com/xgJLAA6T2o
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) March 25, 2024
Adams’ goal inspired the U.S. to yet another victory against El Tri and kept their winning streak against their southern foes alive. The USMNT are now unbeaten in the last seven games vs. Mexico.
7 - The #USMNT is unbeaten in seven straight matches against Mexico (W5 D2), their longest run in the history of the rivalry. Undisputed. pic.twitter.com/ZnmI7qzB8p
— OptaJack⚽️ (@OptaJack) March 25, 2024
A familiar sight!
Christian Pulisic lifts the Concacaf Nations League trophy for the third time pic.twitter.com/OKUjutKEf1— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) March 25, 2024
Adams certainly made a statement with his performance on Sunday and will look to be one of the key figures for the USMNT this summer in Copa América.
