Altidore's spectacular effort vs. Panama helps USMNT top Gold Cup group

Jozy Altidore can still do a job for his country.

With his first international goal since October 2017, the 29-year-old galvanized a sleepy U.S. men's national team Wednesday night, securing a 1-0 win over Panama and top honors in Group D.

The USMNT will now face Gold Cup minnow Curacao in the quarterfinals June 30 at Lincoln Financial Field.

Panama, meanwhile, will meet Group C winner Jamaica in the day's earlier knockout match.

Altidore's bicycle kick in the 66th minute was the difference in a match bereft of much quality.

Assured of a place in the next round, United States head coach Gregg Berhalter opted to make 11 changes to the starting lineup, affording Altidore his first start for the national team in two years.

He led the line with typical vigor. Making his presence felt immediately, the stocky center-forward lashed a shot wide of the far post in the first half. It was one of several missed chances.

Altidore continued to probe around Panama's goal and eventually found a breakthrough on a corner kick.

The U.S. finished the group stage with 11 goals scored and none conceded.