IT WAS A BIZARRE MATCH.

The United States, already qualified for the 2014 World Cup Finals in Brazil, had little to gain. Jamaica, in last place in the Hexagonal, knew it was likely to miss out on the world's biggest sporting event.

And for the first 75 minutes or so, both teams played like none of it mattered.

Neither goalkeeper was challenged. Landon Donovan had a poor first 45 minutes and was pulled off at halftime in favor of Graham Zusi. The crowd tried to generate some energy, but the 11 Americans on the pitch barely responded.

With 15 minutes to play, however, the Yanks stepped it up. Graham Zusi scored on a messy exchange. Five minutes later Jozy Altidore tapped in a cross from substitute fullback Edgar Castillo. And with the 2-0 victory in Kansas City, Mo., the U.S. maintained its sparkling home record in World Cup qualifying.

The Americans also secured its spot atop the Hexagonal. The team finished first in qualifying. It's kind of a big deal.

American Soccer Now Contributing Editor Jon Arnold is in KC now, interviewing Jurgen Klinsmann and key players. Look for his comprehensive match report here, keep an eye out for Blake Thomsen's player ratings, and rest assured that ASN will give you the inside track on the national team going forward.