Many could not watch this match legally. Those were the fortunate. The U.S. put in a pathetic, sloppy performance and looked set for a 1-1 draw with Antigua and Barbuda, before being bailed out by a late winner from fast Eddie Johnson. They now reach the final qualifying round with a draw at home against Guatemala. Depending on the result between Jamaica and Guatemala, they may not need that.

Antigua and Barbuda hosted this match on a cricket pitch. The country’s 10,000-seat stadium held more than 10 percent of the national population. If we’re not seeing the Klinsmann revolution against this level of opposition, when is it coming? CONCACAF away qualifiers are tougher than they look on paper, but come on. This was a narrow escape from unconscionable failure.

At least Klinsmann won’t be blamed for not bringing along Jozy Altidore, Alan Gordon set up Eddie Johnson’s winner.