The United States Men's National Soccer Team secured a 3-0 victory against Mexico in a fiery CONCACAF Nations League semifinal clash on Thursday night. Despite the win, the match was marred by four red cards and an early stoppage due to persistent homophobic chants from the crowd. Weston McKennie and Sergiño Dest received red cards for the US, while César Montes and Gerardo Arteaga were sent off for Mexico. Referee Iván Barton was forced to halt the game prematurely due to the unruly crowd's behavior.

Interim US coach B.J. Callaghan acknowledged the intensity of the rivalry, stating that such incidents occur globally. Debutant striker Folarin Balogun expressed surprise at the heated atmosphere, despite being warned about the intensity of the match.

Christian Pulisic led the US attack with two goals, while Ricardo Pepi added another. Pulisic's brace brought his international tally to 25 goals in 59 appearances, including four against Mexico. This marked his first start for club or country since April 15th. Mexico managed only a single shot on goal throughout the match.

The second half witnessed a surge in tensions, with red cards issued in the 69th, 71st, and two in the 85th minutes. A total of nine yellow cards were also distributed, four to the US and five to Mexico.

The match was temporarily suspended in the 90th minute due to homophobic chants before resuming with 12 minutes of added time. However, Barton was forced to end the game in the eighth added minute as the offensive chanting continued.

This victory extended the USMNT's unbeaten streak against Mexico to six matches, matching their longest run from 2011-2015. The US advances to their fifth consecutive CONCACAF Nations League final, where they will face Canada, who defeated Panama 2-0 in the other semifinal. Canada secured their victory despite having fewer shots, passes, and less possession than Panama. Panama's Eric Davis received a red card in their match.

Callaghan condemned the homophobic chants, emphasizing that they have no place in the sport or its value system. McKennie and Dest will be suspended for the final. USMNT forward Tim Weah acknowledged the impact of their absence but accepted it as part of the game. Callaghan echoed this sentiment, attributing the red cards to players defending each other, albeit acknowledging the need for learning from the experience.

The CONCACAF Nations League final will take place on June 18th at 8:30 p.m. ET, with Mexico and Panama contesting the third-place match.