McKennie Returns; Nets Spectacular Goal

 Compatriot Provides Cross For Midfielder's Scissor Finish

In a crucial Champions League clash at the Juventus Stadium Wednesday, Weston McKennie came off the bench to deliver a splendid and decisive goal that sealed Juventus' 2-0 victory over Manchester City.

After Dusan Vlahovic had broken the deadlock with a powerful header in the 53rd minute, McKennie entered the game as a substitute and made an immediate impact. In the 75th minute, he received the ball from fellow American Timothy Weah, who also subbed on with McKennie, following a well-orchestrated counterattack and the midfielder unleashed a stunning volleyed finish past Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson.

"I was falling over honestly," McKennie said jokingly. "No, I'm just playing. You've seen it before. I did it also against Barcelona so I got it in the locker every once in a while." CBS Sports

McKennie's goal came during a brief but crucial cameo, playing just 21 minutes but making a significant contribution. He completed 4-of-6 passes, including the pass to release Weah before his goal. After Weah's initial cross was blocked, he delicately crossed the ball to the open McKennie in a perfect position to strike.

The American midfielder's late goal not only secured the win for Juventus but also compounded Manchester City's difficulties in the Champions League. The victory leaves City in a precarious position, sitting 22nd in the group standings with just two matches remaining. Juventus are now 14th in the group standings, still in shouting distance of a knockout-round position.

"It was definitely a big moment," McKennie said. "We knew it was going to be a difficult game because Man City is a team that's all about possession and can punish you with the one action, so we knew what type of game it was going to be. And with the situation, we wanted to win this game to boost our confidence to keep going forward in the league." CBS Sports

McKennie's goal was a testament to his ability to make an immediate impact as a substitute, turning the game decisively in Juventus' favor. His finish, similar to one he scored against Barcelona in the Champions League four years earlier, epitomized the Italian side's clinical counterattacking strategy, which frustrated Manchester City throughout the match.

"The big thing is being in that eight position," McKennie said. "I like whenever I'm not really contained when I have the freedom to just run and let my energy out because I'll always be able to get back to my position. So if I have a coach that you know allows me to do that and make my runs in behind and arrive late in the box, then (I'll) have more opportunities to score more goals. It just depends on if it goes in the back of the net or not." CBS Sports

Balogun's Season Disrupted

Monaco Striker Facing Shoulder Surgery

Monaco's Folarin Balogun is set to undergo shoulder surgery, marking a significant setback in his season.

The 23-year-old forward has been battling a persistent shoulder injury that has kept him sidelined. Monaco coach Adolf Hütter confirmed the upcoming medical procedure, expressing concern about the striker's future.

"The decision is that Balo will have surgery on his shoulder, and we don't know exactly how long it will take," Hütter told media. "It's a shame for him and a shame for us."AS.com

Initially sidelined for approximately two months, Balogun had returned to competition at the end of November. However, a recent hit during a 2-1 loss to Marseille in the French league reignited his pain, forcing him to miss training sessions and ultimately necessitating surgery. The striker was just starting to find his form before the initial injury, scoring in three-straight matches before being sidelined after the 2-1 win over Rennes back in October.

Most recently, the injury impacted his return to Arsenal, where Balogun spent his entire youth career, as Monaco fell midweek to the London side 3-0 in the Champions League. Balogun's availability for the upcoming Concacaf Nations League semifinals against Panama on March 20 remains uncertain.

Remembering Pat McBride

 St. Louis Standout, US National Team Alumn, Passed Away Wednesday

Pat McBride, who passed away on Wednesday at 81, was a key figure in American soccer during a trying time, leaving an enduring legacy from his college days at Saint Louis University to his national team and professional career.

At Saint Louis University, McBride established himself as a soccer standout. From 1963-65, he was a pivotal player for the Billikens, winning two national championships and becoming one of the most decorated student-athletes in the program's history. He finished fifth in school history with 130 career points, including 46 goals and 38 assists. His remarkable 1963 season, where he recorded 17 assists and helped teammate Carl Gentile score a school-record 30 goals, remains legendary.

A two-time All-American in 1964 and 1965, McBride's collegiate success set the stage for his professional and international career. McBride's national team journey began with an Olympic Team attempt to qualify in 1964. Between 1969 and 1975, he made five appearances for the U.S. Men's National Team, debuting as a substitute in the 2-0 loss to Haiti on April 20.

He played in three of the four matches in 1972 World Cup Qualifying, which included a 2-2 draw with Canada and defeats to Canada and Mexico. His final cap came in the 1975 defeat to Poland.

"It was certainly a different time as far as how much was really put into it," McBride reflected in 2023. "I love it. I love what they're doing now. Just envious." Post Dispatch

Professionally, McBride played 10 seasons with the St. Louis Stars, becoming a first-team All-Star in 1972 and second-team in 1970 and 1973.

Inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 1994, McBride's impact extended beyond his playing days. He coached at multiple levels, including Southern Illinois Edwardsville, Meramec Community College, and the St. Louis Steamers, mentoring future generations of soccer players and helping to develop the sport in the United States.

McBride's legacy is a testament to his dedication to soccer during a transformative period in American sports history.

Cardoso's Return Boosts Betis in Europa Conference League

 After a Month Off, Cardoso Plays a Half in Victory

Midfielder Johnny Cardoso made a triumphant comeback for Real Betis on Thursday, playing a crucial 45-minute role in the team's 1-0 victory over CS Petrocub in the UEFA Europa Conference League.

After being sidelined since mid-November due to a hamstring injury, the 23-year-old delivered an impressive performance that showcased his value to Manuel Pellegrini's squad. Cardoso demonstrated his midfield prowess by completing 26-of-30 passes, winning four of six duels and making a tackle along with seven recoveries.

Strategically replaced at halftime as he continues to build his fitness, Cardoso's return couldn't have come at a more critical time for Real Betis. The match extended the team's unbeaten run to three matches across all competitions, providing a significant boost heading into their upcoming league match against Villarreal, though Cardoso may not be ready for two matches in a week.

His comeback has also reignited transfer interest from top European clubs, particularly AC Milan. Reports suggest Milan could make a move in the winter transfer market, with a potential offer between 25 and 30 million euros potentially securing his services. Tottenham holds a first refusal option on Cardoso but cannot exercise it until the summer, leaving an opportunity for Milan to pursue the talented midfielder.

For Pellegrini, Cardoso's return is particularly welcome. The Chilean coach had been forced to rely on young academy players and makeshift solutions, including using defender Ricardo Rodríguez in unusual midfield positions during Cardoso's absence. Cardoso has reaffirmed his importance to Real Betis and the return from injury has ignited his potential as a sought-after midfielder in European football.

CCV Man of the Match; Eyes Different Trophy This Weekend

 After the Goalless Draw in the Champions League, Celtic Play Rangers in Scottish Cup Final

Celtic defender Cameron Carter-Vickers has emerged as a standout performer in the Champions League, recently earning a coveted spot in the UEFA Team of the Week following his exceptional display against Dinamo Zagreb. The 26-year-old United States international delivered a masterclass in defensive resilience, helping Celtic secure a crucial 0-0 draw and maintaining the team's European campaign momentum.

Carter-Vickers was named Man of the Match in the goalless draw Tuesday, boasting a remarkable 93% pass accuracy with 99 out of 106 passes completed, while making a couple of interceptions as Celtic were in control of the ball for most of the match, lacking that threat in the final third.

Reflecting on the Champions League match, Carter-Vickers highlighted the team's collective spirit. "We have that collective belief at this level and determination to stick in there and defend as a team," he explained. The Celtic Star 

His resilience is particularly noteworthy, having bounced back strongly after an own goal against Club Brugge in the club's last Champions League fixture. Fellow American Auston Trusty has been Carter-Vicker's main center-back partner as of late, each playing five of the last six matches since the return from the international break — four of them have been together.

Looking ahead, Carter-Vickers is focused on the upcoming Premier Sports Cup final against Rangers at Hampden Park on Sunday. His approach remains focused: "It’s always good to play at Hampden at the atmosphere is always good. As a team, we have quite a few positive memories there, so we are definitely looking forward to it... Whatever has happened in the past is nice, it definitely helps you go into it with a positive mindset, but when the whistle sounds, it’s a new game and a new challenge. We have got to be up for it." The Celtic Star

Aaronson Scores First Goal in Over a Month

Midfielder Adds Late Tap-in to Seal Leeds Victory

Brenden Aaronson delivered a timely response to his recent struggles, playing a pivotal role in Leeds United's 3-1 victory over Middlesbrough at Elland Road on Tuesday night.

The American midfielder had been under scrutiny following a six-match goalless and assist-less streak, with some fans calling for him to head to the bench. However, Leeds manager Daniel Farke remained steadfast in his support, consistently praising Aaronson's work rate.

Teammate Pascal Struijk came to Aaronson's defense, highlighting the player's often-unnoticed contributions. "He puts in the work, runs a lot for the team and does a lot of stuff off the ball," Struijk told BBC Radio Leeds. "Then his time will come and he'll score the goals he deserves." leedsunited.news

On Tuesday, Aaronson proved Struijk right. His performance was notably improved, particularly in the final third, where he showcased neat turns and creative movement. The goal came as a perfectly timed culmination of his hard work, helping Leeds secure their eighth consecutive home league win in the Championship.

This performance could be a turning point for Aaronson, demonstrating his ability to overcome a challenging run of form and continue to be a crucial player for Leeds United.