U.S. Has Cup Spot In Sights

Three games and three victories, with not a goal allowed.

The United States couldn’t be in better shape.

With Joe-Max Moore scoring in the 34th minute, the United States beat Trinidad and Tobago 1-0 on Sunday to virtually clinch a spot in the final qualifying round for the 1998 World Cup.

The victory left the United States in first place in its CONCACAF semifinal group with a 3-0-0 record. The top two teams in the group move into the six-team regional finals, scheduled for next year.

“It’s a pretty darn good scenario to be in,” U.S. coach Steve Sampson said. The Americans play at Costa Rica next Sunday. Three teams from the region representing North and Central America and the Caribbean will play in the 1998 World Cup in France.

Trinidad dropped to 0-3-1 at the bottom of the four-team group and is all but out of contention.

Moore, a free kick specialist, scored on an indirect free kick in the 34th minute.

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