Soccer: Jamaica rallies to beat the U.S. in World Cup qualifier

The United States lost to Jamaica 2-1 for the first time, even after Clint Dempsey scored the fastest goal in World Cup qualifying.

Rodolph Austin and Luton Shelton scored on free kicks as the Reggae Boyz rallied to beat the Americans for the first time in 19 games.

“It means a lot to me to beat the U.S. for the first time,” said Shelton, who plays for Karabukspor in Turkey. “I cried after the game. I have never cried after such an important game. I believe our team is a very good team and to create history was sweet.”

Jamaica (2-0-1) leads Group A with seven points while the U.S. (1-1-1) dropped into second place, tied with Guatemala (1-1-1).

The U.S. will get their rematch with Jamaica on Tuesday night in Columbus, Ohio.

Clint Dempsey scored 35 seconds into the match to put the U.S. ahead. The Reggae Boyz scored in the 23rd and 62nd minutes on free kicks caused by fouls from Kyle Beckerman and Maurice Edu.

The top two nations will advance to next year’s six-nation regional finals. Three qualifiers will come out of the regional finals to play in the 2014 World Cup tournament in Brazil.

The U.S. still has games against Jamaica and Guatemala at home, and a road match against Antigua.

“Jamaica deserved that win. They were hungrier and they were more determined,” U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann said. “We have to fix it now.”