The US tied Costa Rica 2-2 at RFK Stadium in Washington DC last night, to clinch first place in the CONCACAF group and bring an emotional end to the US team’s 2010 World Cup Qualifying Cycle.

This 9th minute tribute to Charlie Davies was spectacular, and was mentioned by USSF President Sunil Gulati following the match.

But Costa Rica came to play for their World Cup lives, and Bryan Ruiz was a handful for the US defense. 

Ruiz’s second goal was every bit world class, as it hit the upper corner past a diving Tim Howard to put the US in a deep 0-2 hole.

On a cold and damp night, US supporters were in full voice.

Michael Bradley’s gritty goal in the 72nd minute put the US on the board and breathed new life into a mighty crowd of 26,243 at RFK.

Onyewu slipped on the wet turf on this play, tore a tendon in his knee and was carted off the field.  It’s estimated he will be out 3-4 months.  This morning, Milan says they want damages from the US.

Five minutes into injury time, Jonathan Bornstein headed-in a last second corner to score a remarkable goal (and become the toast of Honduras) and turn the certain loss into a 2-2 tie for the US. 

Celebrating the shocking goal.  It felt like a victory.

Veterans Tim Howard and Carlos Bocanegra react at the final whistle.

The US finished first in CONCACAF.

Players and fans celebrate the moment.  Note the “Get Well Soon Charlie” sign in the upper left corner.

They did it.