Wondolowski helps fire U.S. to victory on rough pitch in Cuba

Chris Wondolowski had a goal and an assist for the United States in a 2-0 friendly win against a resolute and opportune Cuba side in Havana.

Jurgen Klinsmann fielded a somewhat experimental XI in the team's first friendly in Cuba since 1947, with 21-year-old Ethan Horvath starting in goal and Julian Green making just his second international start for the U.S.

A rough pitch in Havana left the U.S. frustrated in the opening 45 minutes, with Bobby Wood and Jozy Altidore going close and Green having two chances on goal well saved by keeper Sandy Sanchez Mustelier.

As time wore on, it was Cuba who had the best chances of the first half. Roberney Caballero's right-footed shot from outside the box forced a save from Horvath, before Aricheel Hernandez called the young keeper into action again from close range in the 35th minute.

Green was wasteful in the 56th minute, spurning the chance to fine Altidore and Wood in the penalty area. That led to a counter-attack from Cuba that nearly resulted in a goal -- Maikel Reyes hitting the post from 10 yards away.

Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

---

Half-time substitute Wondolowski turned the game in the Americans' favor in the 62nd minute, as he powered home a rebound from a saved Julian Green shot to give the U.S. its opener.

Wondo was on duty again in the 71st minute, as the San Jose Earthquakes striker passed across the goalmouth for Green to poke home right on the Cuban goal line.

The U.S. had a scared in the 80th minute when Steve Birnbaum took a boot to the head from a Cuban player that appeared to be a high kick. The D.C. United defender was attended to on the field and left under his own power.

The United States play another friendly on Tuesday, Oct. 11, against New Zealand at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C. (Live on ESPN at 8 p.m. ET).