Dempsey, U.S. take care of Guatemala

KANSAS CITY, Kansas (AP) — Clint Dempsey scored twice as the United States rallied to beat Guatemala 3-1 Tuesday night and reach the last round of continental qualifying for the World Cup.

The Americans needed only a draw to advance to the six-team finals in North and Central America and the Caribbean qualifying. After Carlos Ruiz put Guatemala ahead in the fifth minute, Dempsey set up Carlos Bocanegra’s goal in the 10th, then scored in the 18th and 36th minutes. Dempsey equaled Brian McBride for third-most international goals in U.S. history with his pair at Kansas City lifting him to 30.

The U.S., seeking its seventh straight World Cup appearance, topped its semifinal group with 13 points.

Tags: sports, soccer