USA vs. Haiti, Gold Cup: Clint Dempsey's goal clinches top of group

Clint Dempsey scored his third goal of this Gold Cup -- giving him a goal in four straight international appearances -- and that was enough to clinch the top spot in Group A of the Gold Cup for the United States, who beat Haiti 1-0 on Friday. Finishing atop the group means the United States will face a third-place on July 18 in Baltimore.

It was not a particularly impressive performance from the United States, though. Haiti had the bulk of the chances in the first half and continued to generate danger on the counter-strike in the second half.

But Jurgen Klinsamnn's decision to sub Gyasi Zardes for Jozy Altidore and moving Dempsey from CAM to forward at halftime provided immediate dividends. Zardes was able to get some space on the wing, worked his way to the byline and found Dempsey wide open right around the penalty spot. Dempsey buried his shot from about 12 yards out in the 47th minute.

Brad Evans also played the full 90 minutes for the United States, playing reasonably well at right back.

The United States will close out their group stage on Monday against Panama.