No One Watches U.S. Defeat Bermuda

COCOA, Fla. — With no advance word or publicity about the game and no fans, the United States played a surprise soccer match against Bermuda Tuesday and won, 2-1, as Hugo Perez returned to the lineup.

The Americans, preparing for Sunday’s World Cup qualifier at Trinidad and Tobago, got second-half goals from John Doyle and Eric Eichmann to take a 2-0 lead.

Perez, who tore a groin muscle on Sept. 29 while playing for Red Star 96 of the French second division, missed the last two World Cup qualifiers, both scoreless ties. Perez, a 26-year-old midfielder from San Diego who was born in El Salvador, is considered the most creative offensive player on the team.

The United States (4-3-3 in 1989), is 3-1-3 in World Cup qualifying, tied for second place with Trinidad and Tobago. Trinidad and Tobago would advance in the event of a tie against the United States because of a better goal differential.