After first-half elation for the United States men’s national team following Tim Weah’s sensational goal, the second half of Monday’s 2022 World Cup opener against Wales was a different story.
Star Welsh striker Gareth Bale scored the equalizer on a penalty kick in the 82nd minute, narrowly slotting home a left-footed strike past goalkeeper Matt Turner to tie the match up 1–1. The goal dashed the American side’s hopes of picking up its first men’s World Cup win in eight years as the final whistle sounded less than 20 minutes later with the game still knotted up.
Bale also drew the foul just a few moments before scoring his 41st goal in international play for Wales. Walker Zimmerman conceded the erroneous penalty with the Welsh striker turned completely away from the goal and with other defenders lurking nearby.
The USMNT will leave Monday’s opener feeling like points were left on the table, but with still all to play for in the next two group matches. The group will return to action on Black Friday when it takes on group leader England at 1 p.m. ET.
Bale and Wales will take on Iran earlier that same day, with kickoff scheduled for 4 a.m.
