World Cup Group G: John Brooks' late goal gives USA 2-1 win over Ghana

Substitute John Brooks' late header gave the USA a 2-1 win over Ghana in Monday's World Cup Group G clash in Natal.

Ghana were the dominant force in the match but ended up empty handed and are now facing an uphill battle to qualify for the last 16, with games against Germany and Portugal still to come.

For the States, it was a case of third time lucky having lost 2-1 to Ghana at both of the previous two editions of the tournament in Germany and South Africa.After just 29 seconds, Clint Dempsey tricked his way past centre-back John Boye and opened the scoring, for the fifth fastest goal in World Cup finals history.

Ghana piled on the pressure, with Sulley Muntari pulling the strings in midfield, but were unable to find a way past USA goalkeeper Tim Howard until the 82nd minute. Andre Ayew played a one-two with Asamoah Gyan before smashing the ball past Howard.

However, just four minutes later, Jurgen Klinsmann's men regained their lead as Brooks - a half-time replacement for the injured Matt Besler - headed down Graham Zusi's corner and saw the ball bounce past Adam Kwarasey.