U.S. loses in Honduras

Oscar Boniek Garcia’s goal with about 12 minutes left in regulation lifted Honduras to a 2-1 win over the U.S. in a World Cup qualifier Wednesday in steamy San Pedro Sula, Honduras. It was the first match of the final round of regional qualifying for both teams - and the loss marked the first time the U.S. has lost its CONCACAF opener. Garcia converted a deft pass from Jerry Bengtson, with Honduras taking advantage of miscues from U.S. defenders Geoff Cameron and Omar Gonzalez. Cameron and Gonzalez (pictured) were playing together for the first time on a backline that averaged 24 years of age after U.S. coach Juergen Klinsmann elected to go with youth by benching former captain Carlos Bocanegra. Even so, the result was a fair one since Honduras dominated play throughout. – Los Angeles Times