USA (4)* v (4) Timor-Leste

By Fiona Crawford

The USA defeated Timor Leste 5-4 in a nail-biting Host Cup semi final which went to a penalty shootout at Yarra Pitch today.

The USA scored first in the match, but Timor Leste answered immediately with an equaliser.

Timor Leste drew ahead after patient build up play created the space for da Silva to slot in their second.

Carlos Gonzalez's long-range pile driver hit the upright and ricocheted in to draw the scores level again and the teams each added another two goals to make it 4-4 at full time.

The USA's Cornelius Cruz stepped up first to take the penalty and scored.

Timor Leste's Amaro da Silva, who had scored three of their four goals, struck the ball solidly but a fingertip touch by the American keeper managed to skew the ball into the upright and out.

The USA progress to the Host Cup final.

Photo: Photoworx