Wynalda Scores Twice, U.S. Team Cools Chile, 2-1

Eric Wynalda scored two first-half goals as the U.S. soccer team beat Chile, 2-1, on Saturday for its first ever victory in the America Cup.

Wynalda opened the scoring in the 15th minute, converting a cross from Ernie Stewart from five yards out. About 14 minutes later, he bent a 19-yard free kick past goalkeeper Marcelo Ramirez.

Wynalda has 17 goals in 61 appearances, passing Hugo Perez for second place on the U.S. career list, four behind Bruce Murray.

The U.S. team, 3-0-1 since falling, 2-1, to Costa Rica on May 28, had its 313-minute shutout streak stopped when Sebastian Rozenthal beat goalkeeper Kasey Keller in the 63rd minute.

“Today was very important to come to Copa America and win our first game,” said defender Marcelo Balboa, who played in his 103rd international game, tying Germany’s Franz Beckenbauer for 18th on the career list.

Chile, playing without star striker Ivan Zamarano, entered the game with a 5-0-1 record against the United States. Zamarano, who led the Spanish League in scoring for Real Madrid, opted not to play.

Also Saturday, Argentina got goals from Gabriel Batistuta and Abel Balbo to defeat Bolivia, 2-1.