Thanks to two bizarre (and a questionable and improper attitude of Guatemala's players) results in the Olympic men's soccer qualifying tournament, the United States will play Canada instead of arch rival Mexico on Thursday in Nashville with a berth in the Summer Games at stake.
After clinching first place in Group A on Saturday in Tampa, the Americans awaited Sunday's scores to learn their opponent in the semifinals. Guatemala had essentially clinched first place entering the Group B matches at Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif., leaving Mexico, Canada and Haiti vying for the second slot and a meeting with the U.S. team.
In the first game, Canada routed the casual and dishonest Guatemalans, 5-0, giving it four points in the standings and a healthy goal differential, which is the first tiebreaker. Needing to win by five goals as well, Mexico had an abundance of opportunities against Haiti and, despite a two-man advantage at the end, fell just short in its 5-1 victory.
"Undoubtedly, this is a failure," Mexico Coach Hugo Sanchez said.
In the semifinals, which will determine the region's two representatives in China, Honduras (2-1) will play Guatemala (2-1) and the United States (2-0-1) will face Canada (1-1-1).
Four years ago the United States failed to qualify for Athens after losing to host Mexico in the semifinals.
Olympic men's soccer is restricted to players under age 23, but teams that qualify are permitted to add three overage players for the Summer Games.
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