In a tense Group A encounter at MetLife Stadium, the United States secured a vital 2-1 victory over Canada thanks to Christian Pulisic’s late penalty. The match remained balanced until the 78th minute when VAR overturned an initial no-call, awarding the USA a spot-kick for handball that left Canadian players furious.

Pulisic kept his composure to convert the decisive kick, sending the home crowd into raptures and handing his side a crucial three points. Earlier goals from both teams had kept the contest alive, but the late controversy proved the difference in this tightly fought clash.

The win boosts USA’s hopes of advancing from the group while leaving Canada to regroup after a spirited performance overshadowed by the late drama. Refereeing decisions and VAR interventions will likely dominate post-match discussions as both sides prepare for their next fixtures.