Pepi Scored and Injured

 Striker Was Key in Win Over Liverpool in the Champions League but Sustained a Knee Injury

In what proved to be a bittersweet Champions League night for Ricardo Pepi, the American striker delivered a crucial performance in PSV's 3-2 victory over Liverpool before suffering a significant knee injury. Pepi netted the winning goal in the historic result, which secured PSV's place in the Champions League Round of 16. However, his evening was cut short in the 76th minute when he had to leave the field due to a knee injury.

While initial fears of an ACL tear have been alleviated, the news remains concerning for club and country. PSV manager Peter Bosz confirmed that Pepi will be sidelined for "a very long time," though he declined to specify the exact nature of the injury. Sources indicate the 22-year-old could miss anywhere from one to three months of action, dealing a significant blow to PSV's campaign and potentially his international duties.

The timing of the injury is miserable, given Pepi's exceptional form this season. The El Paso native has been prolific for PSV, scoring 18 goals in 25 appearances across all competitions. However, many of these contributions have come as a substitute behind regular starter Luuk de Jong. His performances had even attracted interest from the Premier League, with West Ham United reportedly making a $25 million bid that PSV rejected, underlining his importance to the Dutch club.

The injury also raises questions about Pepi's availability for the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League semifinals, where the United States is scheduled to face Panama on March 20. Having scored in both quarterfinal legs against Jamaica, Pepi's potential absence would be a significant loss for the national team, especially considering his impressive international record of 13 goals in 33 appearances. With fellow striker Folarin Balogun also sidelined and Haji Wright just returning from injury, Josh Sargent's recent return to form for Norwich City could prove timely for the USMNT's upcoming fixtures.

Despite the setback, Pepi has maintained a positive outlook. "I'm extremely sad, but I'm a positive person. We will go for the best possible treatment and the best possible recovery, so hopefully, I will come out of it stronger. The club and I will make a decision together to achieve this," he stated, emphasizing his determination to return stronger from this obstacle in what has otherwise been a breakthrough season for the young American striker.

Birnbaum's Late Winner

On This Day in 2016, the Center-Back Heads Home Late Winner in a Friendly Victory over Iceland

The call came suddenly for Steve Birnbaum. After just one national team appearance in January 2015, the D.C. United defender had spent nearly a year away from the U.S. setup before Jurgen Klinsmann found himself short on defenders ahead of the 2016 January camp.

"I got the call Friday morning, and they said, can you be in on Monday," Birnbaum recalled. "I said, 'Yeah. I'm in Irvine. I'll just drive up.'"

The timing was critical. After a difficult 2015 that saw the U.S. fail to reach the Gold Cup final for the first time in 12 years and lose a Confederations Cup playoff to Mexico, Klinsmann entered 2016 facing mounting pressure. With World Cup qualifying, Olympic qualifying against Colombia, and the Copa America ahead, the German coach needed fresh energy in his aging squad.

That short drive to Carson would prove momentous. When Brad Evans departed at halftime with a hamstring injury during the January 31 friendly against Iceland, Birnbaum seized his opportunity. Early in the second half, he rose above two defenders to head Jozy Altidore's cross to Michael Orozco, who nodded home to make it 2-2.

But Birnbaum wasn't finished. In the final minute of regulation, after substitute Jerome Kiesewetter's pace drew a free kick in a dangerous position, Michael Bradley delivered a curling ball toward the far post. Birnbaum met it perfectly, powering home a header for his first international goal to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory.

The win helped kickstart Klinsmann's youth movement, as seven players under 26 featured that day. "Our intention is to transition to the next generation," Klinsmann said after the match. "And give them as much support and as much patience and time as we can."

For the 25-year-old Birnbaum, who considered himself "a middle guy" despite just his second cap, the winner offered hope of a permanent place in the squad. Yet the path forward remained challenging. When World Cup qualifying resumed in March, Klinsmann would have four World Cup veterans and two Premier League center-backs available. His versatility on the wing could prove crucial.

"I wanted to improve and to be in the mix for the national team constantly. I wanted to prove something to them, that I should be here," Birnbaum said. "And hopefully, I'm going to keep doing that."

That determination earned him another chance days later against Canada, as Birnbaum started the match and went the full 90 minutes in a 1-0 win. Birnbaum had made his case, turning an emergency call-up into a moment of magic that would help earn him a spot on the 2016 Copa America Centenario roster and in World Cup qualifying matches later that year before earning his final US caps in the January camp in 2017.

McKennie Captained Juventus for the First Time

 Midfielder Donned the Captain's Armband in the Champions League Defeat

On Wednesday, Weston McKennie reached a significant milestone in his Juventus career. In his 159th appearance for the Italian giants, he wore the captain's armband for the first time. The honor came in Juventus's Champions League group stage finale against Benfica, though the occasion was somewhat dampened by a 2-0 home defeat. McKennie, who has previously captained the U.S. men's national team three times, was deployed at left-back due to the defensive selection crisis.

The captaincy represents a remarkable turnaround for McKennie, who has repeatedly fought his way back from the brink at Juventus. Over the past two seasons, he was seemingly surplus to requirements under both Max Allegri and current manager Thiago Motta. Last year, the club went as far as to give away his locker and parking spot, yet McKennie responded by leading the team in assists and becoming one of their most-used players. This season began similarly, with Motta publicly suggesting McKennie should find a new club, only for the American to earn a contract extension and become an integral part of the squad, making 24 appearances and scoring four goals while displaying his versatility across multiple positions.

Despite the disappointing result against Benfica, Juventus's Champions League journey will continue in the knockout stages, where they face an intriguing matchup against PSV Eindhoven. The tie will be a rematch of their September encounter, which saw McKennie score in a 3-1 Juventus victory. The two-legged series is scheduled for February, with McKennie hoping to lead his team to the quarter-finals while continuing his remarkable renaissance in Turin.

Reyna's Back-Heel Assist

Midfielder Notched his First Assist of the Season in Champions League Victory

Gio Reyna impacted Borussia Dortmund's 3-1 Champions League victory over Shakhtar Donetsk, providing a moment of brilliance with his fifth career Champions League assist. Coming off the bench in the 64th minute to replace Julian Brandt, the 22-year-old American midfielder helped secure Dortmund's victory with an ingenious piece of skill in the 79th minute.

The highlight came when Reyna connected with Ramy Bensebaini in a clever give-and-go sequence. Despite being pressured by two Shakhtar defenders, Reyna showed exceptional composure. He used his first touch to create space before delivering a perfectly weighted back-heel pass that found Bensebaini's continued run into the box. The defender finished the move to seal the victory and secure Dortmund's position as the 10th seed in the Champions League's new format.

This performance comes at a conflicting time in Reyna's career at Dortmund. After missing the early part of the season with a groin strain, he has gradually worked his way back into the team's plans, appearing in 12 of their last 13 matches. However, with only three starts this season and 351 minutes of total playing time, questions remain about his role at the club. While transfer rumors linking him to AC Milan have cooled, the appointment of new manager Niko Kovac, who will take charge after Sunday's Bundesliga match against Heidenheim, could represent a fresh opportunity for Reyna to establish himself as a regular starter. The immediate future holds a Champions League playoff matchup against either Sporting CP or Club Brugge, where Reyna hopes to continue making an impact and proving his worth to the new manager.

Comeback Against the Reigning European Champions

On This Day in 1993, a Grueling Calendar Begins with a Draw Versus Denmark

The U.S. Men's National Team opened 1993 with renewed optimism, settling into its new year-round training facility in Mission Viejo. It embarked on its most ambitious schedule before hosting the 1994 World Cup. 1992 was challenging for the Americans, finishing with a 6-4-11 record (WDL) in full international matches. At least the year ended with a 5-2 victory over the Ivory Coast for third place in the King Fahd Cup, a precursor to the Confederations Cup.

Gone were the nomadic days of living out of suitcases - some players had spent more than 200 days on the road the previous year - with coach Bora Milutinovic now able to implement twice-daily training sessions in a professional environment.

"What we've been doing is surrealistic," forward Peter Vermes explained. "We just can't do that. It's so hard to perform at the level we're trying to perform on a part-time basis."

The US would average a match every 10 days in 1993, and the change was welcomed by veteran goalkeeper Tony Meola, who noted, "It's going to be like an AC Milan atmosphere, where you go in every day, and the starting lineup is not determined until Thursday or Friday. The competition will be good. It makes guys work every day."

That new preparation was tested on January 30, when the team faced European champions Denmark in Tempe. With Brian Quinn sidelined by an ankle injury and Hugo Perez away playing in Saudi Arabia, Milutinovic started Janusz Michallik and Dominic Kinnear alongside Chris Henderson, rookie Joe-Max Moore, and veteran Bruce Murray in midfield.

The Americans struggled early, conceding to Mark Strudal in the 29th minute, as Denmark dominated the first half at Sun Devil Stadium. However, the insertion of Jean Harbor, Cobi Jones, and Desmond Armstrong after halftime changed the match's complexion. Harbor's physical presence proved particularly influential, drawing multiple defenders and creating space that Murray exploited in the 58th minute when he headed home his landmark 20th international goal to equalize.

Though Jakob Kjeldbjerg restored Denmark's lead in the 85th minute, the Americans showed their fighting spirit. Harbor collected the ball at midfield and found Moore, who played a quick combination with Mike Sorber before firing home his first international goal from 12 yards out to secure a 2-2 draw. Moore celebrated with a cartwheel and backflip, having made good on his prediction from the day before that he would score.

"This was a good way to start the year," Murray reflected. "In the first half, we pushed forward, but there was nowhere to go. We stunk. We played terrible. But you have to stay with it. The draw shows no matter how difficult the conditions, we can get a favorable result."

Even Denmark's coach Richard Moeller Nielsen, who brought only three players from his European Championship squad, acknowledged the Americans' potential: "It was frustrating for us to throw a victory away, but the USA deserved a draw. It was as difficult for us as we expected. When they get all their players, they can be a really dangerous team for all nations."

The match came at a crossroads for Murray, the team's all-time leading scorer with 79 caps since 1985. His USSF contract was set to expire in May, with Scottish Premier Division side Partick Thistle expressing interest after he trained with them in November. With dual citizenship through his Scottish parents and a family home near Royal Troon golf course, the opportunity seemed perfect - yet the dream of playing in a home World Cup still pulled at him. Eventually, when his contract with USSF ran out, Murray would earn a move to Millwall in England in August.

A lot of draws, and a few would follow for the US over the next few months leading into a jam-packed summer. The Americans would play eight more matches, including a draw with Romania a week later, before securing the first victory of 1993 — a 2-0 win over Saudi Arabia on April 9.

Twellman's Hat-Trick Against Norway

On This Day in 2006, Twellman Scored the Ninth USMNT Hat-Trick in a Victory over Norway

Taylor Twellman had become one of Major League Soccer's most lethal strikers, leading the league with 17 goals during his 2005 MVP campaign. Yet the New England Revolution star struggled to translate that form to the international stage, managing just one goal in his first 14 appearances with the U.S. Men's National Team.

"Everyone expected me to score a boatload of goals right away," Twellman reflected. "For me, I knew good things would happen. I knew the goals would come."

Everything finally clicked on January 29 before a hopeful crowd in Carson, California. The tenacious 25-year-old forward, who had already scored 64 goals in 98 MLS matches since joining New England in 2002, unleashed his full attacking arsenal against Norway. 

Twellman opened the scoring in just the fifth minute with a precise left-footed strike past goalkeeper Espen Johnsen. Twelve minutes later, he powered home a header to double the lead. As the Americans dominated possession and peppered the Norwegian goal with 24 shots, Twellman completed his hat trick - only the ninth in USMNT history - with another thunderous header in the 76th minute.

"It is always gratifying to score and even more when it's three goals," Twellman told reporters after the 5-0 victory. "If we keep this up, we should have a decent World Cup."

U.S. manager Bruce Arena seemed equally impressed. "If what Taylor is seeking is a spot on the final roster that is traveling to Germany, he is definitely on the right track with a hat-trick performance," he said after the match.

But when Arena announced his 23-man World Cup squad in May, Twellman's name was missing, with Eddie Johnson, Josh Wolff, Brian McBride and Brian Ching selected as the team's forwards. Arena admitted it was an agonizing decision, revealing that Twellman had moved between being included and excluded multiple times during the selection process.

"We looked at our overall roster and tried to find the right balance," Arena explained. "There's no question in my mind that Taylor could have been included in that group. There was such a fine line, there's not one fact that made a difference."

Twellman was back at Revolution training in the pouring rain the following day, refusing to let the disappointment derail him. "He could stick his head between his legs, or he could stand up and get on with it," Revolution manager Steve Nicol observed, "and this morning, he stood up and got on with it."

Twellman has reflected on the snub over the years and, most recently in 2022, said, "I did the best I could. I scored a ton of goals and the manager at that given day was like, 'you know what? I don't want him to be part of the team.' I've got to find a way to live with that and fortunately enough, I've got enough grace to understand it, but I ain't gonna lie to you guys, you know me well enough, it's not easy. Like, it is what it is and we've got to move on and I have actually in a weird way."

The World Cup dream would ultimately prove elusive for Twellman. By the time the 2010 tournament arrived, the former MLS MVP had been forced to retire at age 30, his promising career cut short by seven documented concussions. That January afternoon in Carson, when everything aligned for three magical goals, would stand as the peak of his international career and a bittersweet reminder of what might have been.

Paredes' First Bundesliga Goal

On This Day in 2023, a Year After Signing in Germany, the Teenager Netted His First for Wolfsburg

When Kevin Paredes was transferred to VfL Wolfsburg on January 28, 2022, managing director Marcel Schäfer praised the 18-year-old's "exceptionally gifted left foot" while noting the $7.35 million fee was a modest investment by Bundesliga standards. The Virginia native's first year in Germany was one of adaptation, making just two appearances totaling 13 minutes as he adjusted to life abroad. Living alone in a new country and learning a new language, Paredes had to grow up quickly. "I turned into a man quickly," he would later reflect.

The 2022-23 season started with Paredes seeing more time off the bench. He made six appearances before earning his first start on October 22. A calf problem limited his action before the World Cup break, which gave Paredes a chance to reset. Following the pause, the teenager began making regular appearances off the bench, including an assist against Freiburg on January 21, his first direct goal contribution in German football. That moment set the stage for what would happen a week later at the Weserstadion in Bremen.

On January 28, Wolfsburg entered their match against Werder Bremen looking to maintain their push for European places. The hosts, however, had other ideas as Niklas Füllkrug's brace put them in control of the match. With his side trailing 2-0, Niko Kovac looked to his bench in the 82nd minute and called on Paredes to provide an attacking spark in the closing stages.

The moment arrived in the 90th minute following a Wolfsburg corner kick. The ball was partially cleared but fell invitingly to Paredes at the top of the Bremen box. The former D.C. United academy product connected perfectly with his left foot. His shot was precise, finding the bottom-right corner of the net for his first Bundesliga goal. While it proved only a consolation in the 2-1 defeat, the strike was historically significant - Paredes became just the sixth American teenager to score in the Bundesliga since the start of the 2017-18 season.

"I'm really grateful," Paredes would say a month later about his growing opportunities with Wolfsburg. That gratitude showed in his performances, as the goal against Bremen was part of a strong run of form that put him in contention for the U.S. Men's National Team as a new World Cup cycle began. The winger would make another 12 appearances off the bench, registering two assists to close out the Bundesliga season.

Paredes would become more of a starter in the 2023-24 season, scoring three goals in 28 Bundesliga matches. He earned his US call-up for the August matches against Uzbekistan and Oman, with his first cap coming in the latter. He came off the bench vs Germany in October and made his first start in the 3-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago in November. The performances throughout the season earned Paredes a spot on the 2024 US Olympic team, where he scored two goals and added an assist in four matches during the tournament over the summer.

Donovan's First Premier League Goal

On This Day in 2010, the American Made His Mark with His First Tally in England

When Landon Donovan arrived at Everton in January 2010, the heaviest snowfall in northern England for decades forced the cancellation of his introductory press conference. The 27-year-old Los Angeles Galaxy forward was looking to maintain fitness during the MLS offseason ahead of the World Cup in South Africa, with fellow American Tim Howard helping him settle on Merseyside.

"Tim Howard has had nothing but great things to say about this team, so I am excited," Donovan said upon arrival. "Going into a World Cup year, this experience will keep me sharp."

That arrival came during uncertain times for American soccer. The MLS players' union was amid negotiations that could delay the start of the 2010 season.

David Moyes wasted no time introducing his new signing to Premier League action. Donovan debuted at the Emirates Stadium against Arsenal, providing an assist in a 2-2 draw that remained the closest Everton had come to ending their Arsenal hoodoo in recent years. The American's quick adaptation to English football suggested that Frank Yallop's assessment from eight years prior was correct—the former San Jose Earthquakes manager had said, "I can see him in the Premier League. I really can."

On January 27, Everton welcomed a struggling Sunderland side to Goodison Park. The Black Cats were reeling from a 7-2 hammering at Chelsea and had just one win in their previous 13 Premier League matches. Steve Bruce's decision to drop Kenwyne Jones to the bench after links to Liverpool dominated the pre-match discussion, though Bruce said the striker had "been distracted" by the transfer speculation. The match started perfectly for the home side when Tim Cahill flicked home Marouane Fellaini's cross at the near post in the seventh minute after good work from Leighton Baines down the left.

Eleven minutes later came Donovan's moment. The sequence started with Baines launching a long ball forward from his defensive position. Cahill, already on the scoresheet, rose at the edge of the penalty area to head the ball into Donovan's path. The American took one touch to control before drilling a left-footed shot past Craig Gordon for his first Everton goal. The goal showcased everything Moyes had hoped for when bringing Donovan to Merseyside - intelligent movement, clinical finishing, and the ability to link with his teammates. Donovan nearly added a second in the 57th minute when he rounded Gordon, only to see his effort cleared off the line by George McCartney's knee.

The 2-0 victory extended Everton's unbeaten league run to eight matches and lifted them to ninth in the table. For Donovan, it was the start of a productive spell, including victories over Chelsea and Manchester United. His performances were so good that by mid-February, Everton was exploring ways to extend his loan beyond the March 15 return date. 

While Galaxy coach Bruce Arena maintained Donovan would return as scheduled unless MLS labor negotiations caused a delay to the season, Moyes couldn't hide his enthusiasm: "To hit the ground running like he has, against the best teams in the Premier League, is a major achievement and we would like to keep him for much longer. Look at the games he has been pitched into, against the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea, and yet he has taken to it immediately. He's proven how good a player he is, and we want to keep him."

American Duo Play Part in Comeback

 One Scored a Penalty, and the Other Assisted the Equalizer in a Five-Goal Thriller

Christian Pulisic and Yunus Musah played pivotal roles in AC Milan's stunning 3-2 victory over Parma on Sunday, helping the team secure a dramatic win in stoppage time. Pulisic converted a crucial penalty and was involved in the buildup to the winning goal, while Musah provided the key assist for Tijjani Reijnders' equalizer.

"We have to show this hunger at the beginning of the match, too," Pulisic said after the game. "But it's a very important victory for us."

Pulisic, now joint top scorer for Milan with six league goals, demonstrated his importance to the team. Despite struggling in the first half, his penalty strike to the bottom right corner tied the match.

Musah's performance was particularly notable, especially in the second half. His well-timed through ball found Reijnders, who leveled the score in the 91st minute. This assist was crucial in turning the tide for Milan, who had been trailing 2-1 and facing potential defeat. Samuel Chukwueze would score the winner a few minutes later.

The win moves Milan to sixth place in Serie A, just five points behind fourth-placed Lazio. The victory also provides a significant boost ahead of their crucial Champions League match against Dinamo Zagreb and the upcoming Milan derby. Pulisic and Musah's performances highlighted their growing influence in the Milan squad and their ability to make decisive contributions when it matters most.

Adams' Assist Double

 Midfielder Set Premier League Mark for Americans With Third Assist in Two Matches

Tyler Adams became a key playmaker in Bournemouth's comprehensive 5-0 demolition of Nottingham Forest on Saturday by doing what he does best — win the ball. The U.S. men's national team midfielder provided two crucial assists, helping propel his team to a statement victory at Vitality Stadium.

Known primarily for his defensive work, Adams has been quietly evolving his game under manager Andoni Iraola. After recording his first Premier League assist just a week earlier in a draw against Chelsea, Adams stepped up to another level against Forest. His first assist came early, setting up Justin Kluivert's ninth-minute opener. Kluivert did most of the work, but Adams had to make a quick pass to relieve pressure in the defensive final third. But then Kluivert made no mistake, picking up the ball and running with it for 50 yards before beating goalkeeper Matz Sels from 25 yards to give Bournemouth an early lead.

Adams' second assist proved equally important, coming in the 61st minute when he perfectly teed up Dango Ouattara for what would become part of his hat-trick. This moment encapsulated Adams' growing confidence as he jumped the lazy pass in midfield and released Ouattara with the through pass.

Overall, he completed 23-of-27 passes (85%) while completing two tackles and two interceptions. Bournemouth's victory was part of an impressive 11-match unbeaten streak, with Adams playing a pivotal role in their recent success. After battling injury issues earlier in the season, he now appears fully fit and in form.

"It was a great result," Cherries manager Andoni Iraola said. "We knew we were facing a very good team and that they were also coming in a very good run, but in this game, I think scoring first is key. In most of their last games, they’ve been winning from the first half, and then it becomes the game they want. The goal from Justin in the beginning helped us and made the game look better for us."

The win propelled Bournemouth to sixth place, just one point off a top-four spot. As Bournemouth prepares to face league leaders Liverpool next, Tyler Adams has shown he's no longer just a defensive midfielder but a complete, game-changing player capable of turning matches with his intelligence, technique and ever-expanding skill set.

Pepi's Eventual Winner

 Striker Sealed the Victory with Late Goal as PSV Almost Squander the Lead Late

In a thrilling Eredivisie encounter, Ricardo Pepi emerged as the hero for PSV Eindhoven on Saturday, scoring a crucial late goal in a pulsating 3-2 win against NAC Breda. The 22-year-old came off the bench in the 79th minute and delivered the decisive strike four minutes into stoppage time. Pepi's goal capped a remarkable comeback for PSV, who had initially fallen behind to Leo Sauer's early opener. Guus Til's brace before halftime turned the match on its head, putting PSV 2-1 up. 

Pepi timed his run well and received a pass from Ismael Saibari. He broke through NAC Breda's backline and slotted home PSV's third goal. The ball hit the goalkeeper's hand but was fired too strongly for him to handle. The American's clinical finish proved pivotal, as Kacper Kostorz immediately responded with a goal for NAC Breda.

Pepi's goal was more than just a match-winner. It continued his remarkable scoring form this season, bringing his tally to 11 Eredivisie goals in under 700 minutes – a rate that has propelled him to second place in the league's Golden Boot race. He has scored 16 goals in all competitions this season.

The victory, which extended PSV's lead at the top of the Eredivisie to four points over Ajax, sets up an intriguing Champions League fixture against Liverpool. This match will be crucial, as PSV's progression hangs in the balance. For Pepi, it was another moment that highlighted his transformation from a promising talent to a reliable match-winner off the bench.

Sargent's Brace

 Forward Scores Twice in First Start Since Return from Injury

Josh Sargent made a triumphant return to Norwich City's starting lineup, scoring twice in a comprehensive 5-1 victory over Swansea at Carrow Road on Saturday. Making his first start since October following groin surgery, Sargent was pivotal in the Canaries' resounding win.

"Josh is a quality striker, and we have obviously missed him," coach Johannes Hoff Thorup said. "You could see what a difference he made today."

Sargent opened the scoring just before halftime, finding space in the penalty area to slam the ball past goalkeeper Lawrence Vigouroux. After Swansea's Liam Cullen equalized in the 62nd minute, Sargent immediately responded, firing into the bottom corner within 30 seconds for his six Championship goal of the season.

Despite being carefully managed - Thorup limited his time to 65 minutes - Sargent demonstrated his importance. "He's a big voice in the dressing room and a big player on the pitch," Thorup noted. "Two quality finishes, and he showed how good he is running behind defenders and finding space."

The goals continued Sargent's impressive form, bringing his tally to 17 goals in his last 20 Championship home appearances. Thorup praised his striker's exceptional timing and movement, calling him a "top striker in the league."

Lewis Dobbin, Ante Crnac and Emiliano Marcondes completed the scoring as Norwich cruised to victory, moving to ninth in the Championship standings.

Zendejas Leads América's Dominant Win

 Winger Shines in His First Match of the Season

Alejandro Zendejas delivered a standout performance in Club América's commanding 4-1 victory over Santos Laguna, earning man of the match honors with two crucial goals. The winger struck in the 61st and 70th minutes, helping to secure a comprehensive win that propelled América to the top of the Liga MX Clausura 2025 table.

Zendejas was a constant threat, taking three shots on target and contributing to the team's attacking display. His goals complemented Victor Dávila's earlier strike, which Zendejas assisted, and Érick Sánchez's goal just before halftime.

Highlights (Link)

The match saw América deploy a 4-3-3 formation under manager André Jardine, with Zendejas playing a pivotal role in the attacking trio. His performance continued his recent impressive form, following a strong Apertura campaign where he netted four goals and five assists in 19 games.

In a recent development, the club rejected an offer from Orlando City SC for Zendejas, underlining his importance to the team. The 26-year-old has been a key player in América's recent success, winning three consecutive Liga MX titles. The victory leaves América leading the league with 7 points, while Santos remains at the bottom of the table with zero points.

An Exciting Win to End January Camp

 White, Clark and Agyemang All Scored in an Entertaining, Friendly Victory

Mauricio Pochettino's MLS-based United States Men's National Team concluded its January training camp with an impressive 3-0 victory over Costa Rica in Orlando, Florida. The victory showcased the depth and potential of some of the league's most promising Americans. The match was a testament to Pochettino's ability to integrate new talent quickly. Eight players made their USMNT debuts during the two-friendly camp. Brian White, Caden Clark and Patrick Agyemang scored the goals in the victory.

The game's dramatic opening came from Diego Luna, who continued playing despite suffering a bloody nose after an early collision. Pochettino highlighted Luna's resilience, saying, "He showed great character because he wanted to stay, he wanted to play. This is a player that we are definitely going to consider for the future."

Then, Luna set up White's opener in the 21st minute, with the striker becoming the oldest American to score his first international goal since Matt Besler in 2016. Clark doubled the lead in the 77th minute with a crisp left-footed shot before Agyemang sealed the victory in stoppage time.

Goalkeeper Zack Steffen, returning to the national team after nearly three years, made crucial saves that underscored the team's defensive solidity. It was his first clean sheet since the goalless draw in Mexico in March 2022 in World Cup Qualifying. He was particularly proud of his performance, noting, "It's always nice to make some of those top-handed saves."

The match was part of Pochettino's broader strategy to evaluate and develop talent ahead of the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League semifinals against Panama in March. With most European-based players unavailable, the coach used the opportunity to cast a wide net in player evaluation.

"When I watch after 90 minutes, it's not like we've had one or two weeks working together -- it looks like we are working for six months," Pochettino told broadcasters, praising the team's quick adaptation to his tactical approach.

The victory continued the USMNT's momentum, extending their streak to four games and providing excitement for the upcoming Nations League competition. With 20 of 21 players in the camp coming from MLS, the performance highlighted the league's growing importance in developing national team talent.

Pochettino's final message was clear: These friendlies were an audition for future opportunities. 

"I told them from the beginning that they need to take these two games very seriously because if they perform, they will have the possibility to show us in the future," the manager said.

Haji Remains Out

 Striker Still Not Training As Transfer Rumors Cool

Frank Lampard explained striker Haji Wright's prolonged injury absence, revealing the player's return is taking longer than initially anticipated. "It's taken a bit longer, probably," Lampard said. "It was a difficult ankle injury. So as much as you try to estimate how long these things take, you're always waiting for that moment of the last bit to get on the pitch."

Wright has been sidelined for nearly three months since an ankle injury at Sunderland on November 9. Lampard emphasized the cautious approach, stating, "We have that duty to do that, and Haji will want exactly the same. It's obviously a frustration for us all."

While Wright remains out of training, transfer speculation swirls around his future. The Mirror reported that Ipswich Town is considering Wright as a potential replacement for Liam Delap, who is expected to depart at the end of the season. Coventry values Wright at £16-20 million, reflecting his significant impact since joining the club.

Lampard remains optimistic about Wright's eventual return, noting, "Having a player of his level back will be a big bonus for us. I absolutely don't underestimate that." The manager highlighted Wright's clinical goal-scoring ability and impact since arriving at the club.

Wright continues his rehabilitation, and Lampard hopes for his return in the next two to three weeks. The striker's absence has opened opportunities for other players, but the Coventry City staff and fans eagerly anticipate his eventual comeback.

Johnny to Wolves?

 The Struggling Premier League Side is the Latest Rumor for the Midfielder

Wolves have emerged as the latest club interested in signing Johnny Cardoso from Real Betis. Fabrizio Romano confirmed their genuine interest. The 23-year-old American defensive midfielder has made 13 appearances in La Liga this season.

Tottenham's existing €25 million (£21.1 million) buy option, negotiated as part of the Giovani Lo Celso deal last summer, complicates the potential transfer. This clause gives Spurs a significant advantage in any possible negotiations.

Currently, talks between Wolves and Betis have not advanced significantly. According to Relevo, the Midlands club is still considering making an offer, but Betis views Cardoso as an essential player. Spurs previously showed serious interest in bringing Cardoso forward this January, but they were worried about potential competition from Atletico Madrid and AC Milan. Therefore, they may wait to exercise their option in the summer.

Cardoso remains under contract with Betis until 2029, giving the club a strong negotiating position. While transfer interest is mounting, it appears more likely that he will stay at Betis until the summer transfer window. Wolves manager Vitor Pereira is keen to strengthen his midfield as the club fights for Premier League survival, making Cardoso an attractive potential target.

Maloney to Mainz

Midfielder Completed Move to Different Bundesliga Club

German-born U.S. midfielder Lennard Maloney has secured a transfer to Mainz. He signed a contract until 2028 after leaving Bundesliga rival Heidenheim, where he was a key player in the team's promotion to the Bundesliga.

Mainz sporting director Niko Bungert praised Maloney's qualities, saying, "Maloney has been able to prove himself in the Bundesliga over the last year and a half. His preferred position is as a number six, and as a player, he's the perfect fit for Mainz 05."

The transfer comes after Heidenheim coach Frank Schmidt dropped Maloney in December, citing a lack of commitment. Schmidt had previously stated he could "only count on players... who are 100% focused on the interests of Heidenheim."

Heidenheim CEO Holger Sanwald confirmed the player's desire to move, noting, "Lenny had informed us that he would definitely sign for Mainz after his contract with us expires in the summer, but that he would like to make the move during this winter transfer window."

Maloney expressed enthusiasm about the move, stating, "Mainz 05 is a great fit for me, both in terms of the way we play and the overall culture."

The transfer represents a significant moment for the 25-year-old, who has made two appearances for the United States national team. With the move, Maloney leaves Heidenheim, currently in the relegation playoff spot, for sixth-placed Mainz, which is on course for potential European qualification.

Morris with a Strong Return

Midfielder Excelled in First Start Since Injury Return

Aidan Morris returned to Michael Carrick's starting lineup on Tuesday, playing a full 90 minutes in Middlesbrough's 2-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion after being sidelined since November with a knee injury.

The 23-year-old immediately impacted, recording two interceptions and nine recoveries. His return significantly boosts Middlesbrough, who sit fifth in the EFL Championship with 18 matches remaining.

Carrick praised Morris's performance, stating, "We weren't sure how long he was going to last, but he got through the game, which was good. Always when you've been out that long, the first 90 minutes is a big positive step for different reasons: for fitness and mentally to know you can get through it."

Midfield partner Hayden Hackney welcomed Morris's return, noting, "We just have that connection... I would say it allows me more freedom. You could see tonight how he likes to drop in between the two center-backs to build up play... That gives me that little bit more freedom to get higher up the pitch."

Morris's deeper-lying playing style complements Hackney's more forward-thinking approach. Since joining from Columbus Crew last summer, Morris has made 19 appearances for the club and is crucial to Middlesbrough's midfield strategy. The midfielder's return comes at a critical time, with Middlesbrough preparing to face Preston North End and rivals Sunderland in upcoming fixtures.

A Classic CONCACAF Opponent

First Match Against Costa Rica Since the World Cup Qualifying Defeat

The U.S. Men's National Team will host Costa Rica in Orlando and for over nearly five decades of competition, the two nations have fought to a remarkably balanced head-to-head record: 19 US wins, 17 Costa Rica wins with 6 draws across 42 meetings since their first encounter in 1975, a match Costa Rica won 3-1.

The rivalry's most defining characteristic has been the extraordinary power of home field advantage. Costa Rica's dominance in San Jose has been particularly noteworthy - the Americans have never won a competitive match on Costa Rican soil, with their struggles epitomized by a series of crucial World Cup qualifying defeats. From Bruce Arena's tenure in the early 2000s (where his teams scored just one goal while conceding seven in three losses) to Jurgen Klinsmann's 4-0 defeat in 2016, and most recently a 2-0 loss in March 2022, the Ticos' home fortress has remained impenetrable.

The U.S. has enjoyed similar success at home, posting a strong 15-5-4 record on American soil. This includes the famous "Snow Classico" in March 2013, when Clint Dempsey's goal gave the U.S. a 1-0 victory in blizzard conditions in Denver - a match that has become legendary in the rivalry's lore. Dempsey holds the record for most goals scored in the fixture with four.

Recent years have featured several memorable encounters: a dramatic 2-1 U.S. comeback victory in Columbus during 2022 World Cup qualifying, powered by goals from Sergino Dest and Tim Weah (a Leonel Moreira own goal); Costa Rica's emphatic 2-0 win in Harrison that helped derail the Americans' 2018 World Cup qualifying campaign; and a series of decisive U.S. home friendly victories between 2019-2021, including a commanding 4-0 win in Sandy, Utah.

The rivalry's even nature challenges the traditional narrative of CONCACAF being dominated by just the U.S. and Mexico. Despite having a fraction of the population, Costa Rica has consistently proven themselves equal in this matchup, particularly during the last two decades as they've established themselves as a regular World Cup participant, highlighted by their remarkable quarterfinal run in 2014.

A Victory to Open 2025

Young Stars Shine as USMNT Cruises Past Venezuela in 3-1 Win

A trio of first-time scorers led the U.S. Men's National Team to a 3-1 victory over Venezuela on Saturday at Inter Miami's Chase Stadium, giving head coach Mauricio Pochettino his fourth win in five matches since taking charge.

In a match featuring numerous new faces, Philadelphia Union midfielder Jack McGlynn broke the deadlock in the 37th minute with a spectacular long-range strike. The 21-year-old seized his opportunity when finding space outside the box.

"I found myself in a good pocket with a lot of space in front of me, and thought, why not? I have a good shot," McGlynn explained after the match. "I tried it, and thank the Lord it went in."

Charlotte FC forward Patrick Agyemang doubled the lead just two minutes later, marking his international debut with a clinical finish past Venezuelan goalkeeper Wuilker Faríñez. Matko Miljevic, who had earlier missed a penalty in the second minute, redeemed himself with a spectacular individual effort in the 64th minute, becoming the first Argentina-based player to score for the USMNT.

Venezuela's Jorge Yriarte pulled one back with a header in the 68th minute, but it wasn't enough to spoil an encouraging performance from the American side, which dominated possession and put nine of their 13 shots on target.

"Today, not only did we see good players and a good performance, we played like a team," Pochettino said. "We are so happy."

The match, played outside the FIFA international window with a roster comprised mainly of MLS players, gave Pochettino valuable insights into his player pool. The coach estimates he's expanded his selection options from 25-30 players to nearly 50 for the upcoming year, crucial information ahead of the Nations League finals in March and this summer's Gold Cup.

Weah Seals Juventus Victory

Winger Came off the Bench to Nab Fifth Serie A Goal of the Season

Timothy Weah delivered a masterclass moment on Saturday, scoring a crucial goal to help Juventus secure an impressive 2-0 victory over AC Milan at the Allianz Stadium. The American winger's 64th-minute strike, which came after some brilliant footwork to evade defender Fikayo Tomori, put the game beyond Milan's reach and helped the Bianconeri climb to fourth place in Serie A.

The goal showcased Weah's growing confidence and technical ability in open space, as he expertly controlled a pass from Marcus Thuram before driving a low shot past goalkeeper Mike Maignan. The strike held special significance for the 24-year-old, coming almost 26 years after his father George's last goal in this derby – a remarkable piece of footballing symmetry that adds another chapter to the Weah family's rich Serie A legacy.

"Tonight is incredible, a deserved victory because we always work well," Weah said. “The coach asked me to make the difference even when I come off the bench. I did it and I’m happy.”

Juventus' victory, their first in five matches, helped maintain their unbeaten run in Serie A this season, with their record now standing at eight wins and thirteen draws from twenty-one matches. The win was particularly sweet given their recent elimination from the Supercoppa Italiana semifinals at Milan's hands.

The match also featured several other American connections, though with mixed fortunes. Christian Pulisic, who has been in outstanding form for Milan this season with ten goals across all competitions, was forced to miss the clash due to a muscle injury picked up during midweek against Como. While the injury is not expected to keep him sidelined for long, it comes as a setback for the 26-year-old who had already missed several weeks last month with a calf problem.

Weston McKennie, Weah's teammate at Juventus, continued his solid form, this time playing as the right-back in a four-man system, further showing his versatility this season. Meanwhile, Yunus Musah, who has been establishing himself as a regular presence in Milan's midfield this season, struggled to make his impact in the right-midfield position.

The victory marks a significant moment for Weah, who has now scored five goals this season for Juventus, matching a feat previously achieved by his fellow Americans Pulisic and McKennie in Serie A. As the season progresses, the Brooklyn-born forward's growing influence could prove crucial in Juventus' pursuit of Champions League qualification.

Adams Excellent in Victory

Midfielder's Strong Performance Helps Bournemouth Stun Newcastle in Rout

Tyler Adams delivered a commanding midfield performance on Saturday, helping Bournemouth secure an impressive 4-1 victory over Newcastle United at St James' Park. The American midfielder registered his first Premier League assist of the season and played a crucial role in maintaining what he describes as the team's "controlled chaos" approach.

Adams' highlight moment came when he won possession deep in Newcastle territory before setting up Justin Kluivert's hat-trick goal, demonstrating the aggressive pressing style that has become Bournemouth's trademark. The American completed 90 minutes of action, making four tackles and recording two interceptions.

Speaking after the match, Adams provided insight into Bournemouth's tactical approach: "It's a controlled chaos. We want to make the game as chaotic as possible but controlled for us. We try and overwhelm the opponent as much as possible but for us it feels normal."

The victory was particularly impressive given Bournemouth's extensive injury list, with nine first-team players sidelined. Adams, who has now made 13 appearances this season after returning from his own lengthy injury layoff, praised the team's depth and mentality.

The result extends Bournemouth's unbeaten Premier League run to ten matches and moves them to sixth place in the table, just one point behind Newcastle. Adams' performance exemplified the high-tempo, aggressive style that has made Bournemouth one of the season's surprise packages.

Richards Continues to Perform

Crystal Palace Earn Another Victory With Richards Making Fourth-Straight Start

Chris Richards delivered another commanding defensive performance as Crystal Palace secured an impressive 2-0 victory at West Ham on Saturday, marking their second consecutive clean sheet under manager Oliver Glasner.

The U.S. international, making his fourth-straight Premier League start, was instrumental in limiting West Ham to zero shots on target throughout the match. Richards' positioning and aerial presence were particularly noteworthy, as he won 50% of his aerial duels and made four headed clearances to help nullify the hosts' attacking threats. 

Now that Trevoh Chalobah was recalled from his loan, Richards has been operating as part of a back three alongside captain Marc Guehi and Maxence Lacroix. Richards demonstrated his composure on the ball, completing an impressive 90% of his passes (52/58). His distribution from the back helped Palace maintain control of the game. One of Richards' key moments came in the second half when he made a vital block to deny Danny Ings after Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta had failed to clear a set piece.

The victory, secured through Mateta's second-half brace, extends Palace's unbeaten away run to seven Premier League games and moves them up to 12th place, now 11 points clear of the relegation zone. The clean sheet was particularly notable as it marked Palace's first back-to-back shutouts under Glasner's reign.

Richards' recent run in the team has coincided with an impressive upturn in Palace's form, with three wins and a draw from their last four matches. His consistent performances have helped solidify a defense that frustrated a West Ham attack that, despite missing several key players, still posed a significant threat on paper.

Four Players Unavailable Against Venezuela

The USMNT's January camp roster has been significantly reduced, with four players departing ahead of Saturday's friendly against Venezuela. The departures represent a mix of fitness concerns, transfers, and minor injuries.

Jesús Ferreira, recently traded to Seattle Sounders from FC Dallas, was released to focus on regaining full fitness. The 24-year-old striker, who has 15 goals in 23 international appearances, was limited to just 22 MLS matches last season due partly to an abdominal injury. He'll join Seattle's preseason camp before their departure to Marbella, Spain.

Defender Jalen Neal, who just completed a significant transfer from LA Galaxy to CF Montréal, is experiencing a minor undisclosed issue. The 21-year-old Lakewood native represents a success story of the Galaxy's development system, having progressed from their U-13 academy to becoming an MLS Cup champion. The $650,000 transfer to Montréal includes a new three-year contract with an option for 2028.

John Tolkin's departure was attributed to him finalizing a transfer from New York Red Bulls to Holstein Kiel in Germany.

The fourth departure came when goalkeeper Drake Callender returned to Inter Miami due to a minor muscle issue requiring evaluation and treatment.

These departures leave the USMNT with 20 players for the Venezuela match. Given that these friendlies fall outside FIFA's international windows, limiting the availability of European-based players, these losses further reduce Pochettino's options. U.S. Soccer has not yet decided whether to bring in replacements for any of the departed players.

US Plays First Match of 2025

The USMNT enters 2025 ranked 16th in FIFA's rankings and carries momentum from successful qualification to both the 2025 Concacaf Nations League finals and Gold Cup. Under new manager Mauricio Pochettino, they've posted a solid 3-0-1 (WDL) record, including perfect results on home soil.

This January camp roster, traditionally focused on MLS-based players, represents a chance to expand the player pool ahead of a critical year. The 21-man squad features considerable youth and inexperience – ten players are uncapped, and the attacking corps has a mere four combined international appearances. Only veteran defenders provide significant international experience, led by Tim Ream (66 caps), Walker Zimmerman (42) and Miles Robinson (30).

The team has shown potency in recent matches, demonstrated by their 5-2 aggregate victory over Jamaica in November's Nations League quarterfinals. Ream has worn the captain's armband in all of Pochettino's matches, with the team going 10-3-1 under his leadership.

Several players arrive with interesting storylines. Patrick Agyemang's rise from Division III college soccer to MLS success with Charlotte FC (10 goals in 2024) exemplifies the developmental pathways being discovered. Five squad members competed in the 2024 Olympics in France, while goalkeeper Zack Steffen returns to the national team, seeking his first cap since World Cup qualifying in March 2022.

The January camp has historically proven vital for USMNT player development – since the 2002 World Cup cycle, 30 players who earned their first or second caps in January camps have gone on to make World Cup rosters. Nine members of the 2022 World Cup squad in Qatar, including key players like Tyler Adams and Brenden Aaronson, got their start in these winter gatherings.

'Scouting' Report: Venezuela

Venezuela is unique among South American nations, as baseball rather than soccer historically dominated the sporting culture. They were late to join FIFA (1952) and remain the only CONMEBOL nation never to qualify for a World Cup. However, La Vinotinto (nicknamed for their burgundy jerseys) has made significant strides since 2000, reaching as high as 25th in FIFA rankings and consistently advancing in recent Copa América tournaments.

Currently ranked 47th, Venezuela started their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign promisingly but has since struggled, sitting 8th in CONMEBOL with a 2-6-4 (WDL) record. Under Argentine manager Fernando Batista, they typically deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation that emphasizes technical ability and quick transitions, with fullbacks pushing forward into wide spaces.

Historically, Venezuela has struggled against the US with a 1-2-3 (WDL) record against the Americans. Most recently, they earned their only win over the US in 2019. For the US, it was an embarrassing 3-0 defeat before the Gold Cup. Their current Venezuela squad features several MLS-based players, including Atlanta United's Ronald Hernández and Austin FC's Daniel Pereira.

Juventus Duo with Different Weeks

 One Recorded an Assist While the Other had a Loan Bid Rejected

In the midst of transfer speculation, Juventus has firmly rejected RB Leipzig's approach for Timothy Weah, underlining the American's importance to manager Thiago Motta's plans. Having missed out on Noah Okafor, the German club made an inquiry about a potential loan with an option to buy for the versatile 24-year-old winger. However, Juventus made it clear they have no intention of parting ways with Weah, who has contributed four goals and two assists in Serie A this season.

Meanwhile, Weston McKennie continues to prove his worth to the Bianconeri, delivering another impressive performance in Tuesday's 1-1 draw against Atalanta. After a stint filling in at left back for four consecutive matches, McKennie returned to his preferred box-to-box midfield role and made an immediate impact. The 26-year-old American showcased his technical ability by controlling a long pass and setting up Pierre Kalulu for the opening goal in the 54th minute. The assist was McKennie's third of the season, complementing his four goals in what has been a strong campaign for the midfielder.

"We always play to win, every game, it's a moment when it's important to stay united, all together," McKennie said. "I'm fine, now we have to focus on the next game and move forward playing as always to win. We have to do more to win because Juventus must always be at the top and to get to that position we have to win these games."

This weekend's clash between Juventus and AC Milan carries extra significance following their recent meeting in the Super Cup semi-final, where Milan emerged victorious under new manager Sergio Conceicao. Juventus will be eager for revenge, but they'll need to overcome their tendency to draw matches – they've shared the points in 13 of their 20 Serie A games this season. Despite being the only unbeaten team in the league, these draws have left them sitting in fifth place.

The match represents a crucial opportunity for both teams to climb the Serie A standings. For Juventus, breaking their pattern of draws could prove vital in their quest to return to the Champions League places. The game will be particularly important for Juventus as they look to prove that Milan's Super Cup victory was an anomaly.

Tolkin to the Bundesliga, Departs Camp

 Full Back Signed with Holstein Kiel for 2.5 Million Euros

Former New York Red Bulls defender John Tolkin completed his transfer to Holstein Kiel of the German Bundesliga on Thursday. The deal, reportedly worth €2.5 million ($2.58 million), marks the largest transfer in Holstein Kiel's history and represents an important step forward for the 22-year-old left back.

Tolkin leaves the Red Bulls after an impressive tenure that saw him make 114 MLS appearances, contributing seven goals and 12 assists since his debut in 2021. His consistent performances caught the attention of both the U.S. Olympic team, where he started all four matches in Paris, and the senior national team, where he has earned four caps.

The move comes at a crucial time for both the player and the club. Holstein Kiel, newly promoted to the Bundesliga, currently sits in 17th place and desperately needs reinforcements to avoid relegation. For Tolkin, the opportunity to test himself in one of Europe's top leagues could boost his chances of becoming a regular for the U.S. national team, where left-back depth behind starter Antonee Robinson remains a question mark.

Shortly after the announcement, Tolkin addressed the controversy surrounding his past social media activity, issuing an apology through the club for likes related to various controversial topics. He emphasized his respect for all people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, with Holstein Kiel expressing confidence in both his sporting and personal character.

To facilitate the transfer, Tolkin departed the U.S. national team's training camp in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where the team was preparing for upcoming friendlies against Venezuela and Costa Rica. This move represents a significant opportunity for his development as he becomes the latest American to test himself in German football.

Reyna Scores Midweek as Rumors Swirl

Midfielder Netted a Goal in Dortmund's Defeat, May Be on the Move in January

Gio Reyna provided a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing night for Borussia Dortmund, scoring a stunning goal in their 4-2 defeat to Holstein Kiel on Tuesday. With his team trailing 3-0, Reyna received the ball in midfield and drove forward before unleashing a precise strike from 20 yards out in the 71st minute. It marked his second goal of the season, following his December strike against Hoffenheim.

The 22-year-old's impressive finish sparked hopes of a comeback, especially after Jamie Gittens scored minutes later to make it 3-2. However, Holstein Kiel would eventually seal the win with a stoppage-time goal, condemning Dortmund to their sixth Bundesliga defeat of the season. The loss leaves the struggling giants in ninth place, with pressure mounting on coach Nuri Sahin.

Amid Dortmund's difficulties, transfer rumors have begun swirling around Reyna. Italian giant AC Milan is reportedly interested in bringing the American playmaker to Serie A during the January window, with a potential fee of around €15 million being discussed. The move could see Reyna unite with US teammates Christian Pulisic and Yunus Musah at the San Siro. His Portuguese passport would also make him an attractive signing as he wouldn't occupy a non-EU roster slot.

Reyna and Dortmund face a crucial test on Friday when they travel to third-placed Eintracht Frankfurt. Die Adler enter the match in strong form, having won their first two matches of 2025, including an impressive 4-0 victory over Freiburg. However, Frankfurt hasn't beaten Dortmund at home since November 2016. With Dortmund winning just one of their eight away league games this season, Reyna will need to build on his midweek goal to help his team reverse their concerning form.

Robinson With Two More Assists

Fullback Rolls On with Two Assists in West Ham Defeat

Antonee Robinson continued his remarkable season with two more assists in Fulham's 3-2 defeat to West Ham United on Tuesday, though his contributions weren't enough to prevent his side from falling to their London rivals. The American left-back delivered two simple passes to Alex Iwobi, who played crosses that found the back of the net, with Raul Jimenez and Harry Wilson barely missing the ball.

The performance highlighted why Robinson leads all defenders across Europe's top five leagues with nine assists this season, surpassing the likes of PSG's Achraf Hakimi and Lazio's Nuno Tavares. Only Mohamed Salah and Bukayo Saka have recorded more assists in the Premier League.

Robinson's stellar form has attracted interest from several top clubs, with Liverpool and Manchester United reportedly monitoring his situation. Both clubs are looking to strengthen their left-back positions, viewing the U.S. international as an ideal candidate given his proven Premier League experience and attacking prowess.

However, Fulham have no intention of letting their star defender leave during the January transfer window. The club considers Robinson "integral" to their European qualification ambitions and will reject any approaches. With a contract running through 2028, Fulham is under no pressure to sell its prized asset, who has transformed into one of the most complete full-backs in English football since arriving from Wigan in 2020.

Pulisic Avoids Injury Scare

Winger Subbed Out in Midweek Win Over Como

AC Milan fans can breathe a sigh of relief after tests revealed Christian Pulisic only suffered muscle fatigue following his injury scare in Tuesday's 2-1 victory over Como. The winger was forced off at halftime after colliding with Como defender Marc-Oliver Kempf, raising concerns given his recent return from a month-long calf injury layoff.

Medical examinations confirmed there was no muscle tear in Pulisic's left calf, welcome news for both the player and the club given his exceptional form this season. The 26-year-old has been a standout performer for the Rossoneri, contributing 10 goals and seven assists across all competitions, ties for the team lead in both categories in Serie A despite missing time through injury.

The timing of Pulisic's quick recovery could prove crucial as Milan prepare for a pivotal clash against Juventus on Saturday. The American recently played a key role in Milan's Italian Super Cup triumph, sparking a comeback victory over the same opponent in the semifinals. However, new manager Sérgio Conceição may exercise caution with his star winger's fitness.

It was confirmed Friday that Pulisic would miss the match against Juventus over the weekend, so the club may opt to use him for their upcoming Champions League fixture against Girona on January 22. Currently sitting seventh in Serie A but just one point behind leaders Napoli, Milan will hope their American talisman can return to full fitness quickly as they chase domestic and European success.

Pepi Saves the Day in the Cup Tie

American Duo on the Scoresheet as PSV Need 120 Minutes to Beat Excelsior

Ricardo Pepi and Malik Tillman played pivotal roles in PSV's dramatic 5-4 extra-time victory over Excelsior in the KNVB Cup Round of 16. With the Eredivisie leaders trailing by two goals and at risk of a stunning cup exit, Tillman came off the bench to spark the comeback, scoring in the 73rd minute to make it 2-1. Though Excelsior would extend their lead to 3-1, Pepi then took center stage in an extraordinary finish.

The 22-year-old striker netted twice, first pulling one back in the 86th minute to give PSV hope before completing his brace with a delicate chip in the first period of extra time to give his side their first lead at 4-3. The goals brought Pepi's remarkable season total to 15 across all competitions, maintaining his impressive scoring rate of a goal every 62 minutes played.

"To be honest, I think you have to expect everything in football, but we didn't expect the game to be like this," Pepi said. "We knew it was going to be complicated and it is what is it. At the end of the day, we won the game and that is the most important thing."

Amid his stellar form, which includes nine goals in just five Eredivisie starts, PSV's director of football Earnie Stewart has ruled out any January transfer for Pepi despite reported interest from Premier League clubs. The Dutch leaders view the American forward as part of their long-term plans, with reports suggesting they will offer him a new contract to ward off potential suitors.

The dramatic cup victory, sealed by Ivan Perisic's fifth goal for PSV, keeps the club's domestic double hopes alive as they continue their impressive 2024-25 campaign under manager Peter Bosz.

Aaronson Scores the Winner

The Other Aaronson's Goal the Difference in Utrecht's Victory over Feyenoord

American midfielder Paxten Aaronson continued his breakout season in the Netherlands, scoring a crucial goal in FC Utrecht's impressive 2-1 victory over Feyenoord at De Kuip on Sunday. The win helped Utrecht maintain their grip on third place in the Eredivisie, now sitting four points clear of the defending champions.

After a goalless first half dominated by the hosts, Utrecht struck twice in quick succession just after the hour mark. Niklas Vesterlund opened the scoring in the 60th minute with a looping header from a corner, before Aaronson doubled the advantage five minutes later with a clinical finish to cap off a flowing counterattack.

The 21-year-old's goal showcased Utrecht's tactical prowess on the break, with January arrival Sébastien Haller and Yoann Cathline combining brilliantly before Aaronson provided the finishing touch. It was his fifth goal of the season, highlighting his growing influence since joining Utrecht on loan.

Beyond his goalscoring contribution, Aaronson put in a complete performance that demonstrated his development as a two-way midfielder, leading all players with five tackles, showing the kind of all-around game that has made him an increasingly vital piece of Ron Jans' squad.

Though Santiago Gimenez pulled one back for Feyenoord from the penalty spot in the 81st minute, Utrecht held firm for their first victory at De Kuip since 2014. The historic win maintains Utrecht's surprising push for Champions League qualification, with Aaronson's emergence as a consistent contributor playing a key role in their success.

Utrecht will look to maintain their momentum when they travel to RKC Waalwijk for KNVB Cup action in midweek, with Aaronson aiming to continue his impressive form in 2025.

Turner Starts in FA Cup Win

Goalkeeper, Along with Chris Richards, Helped Crystal Palace to Cleansheet in Victory

Matt Turner made a compelling case for more playing time after keeping a clean sheet in Crystal Palace's narrow 1-0 FA Cup victory over Stockport County on Sunday, marking his first appearance at Selhurst Park as an Eagle.

"Learning to win is a habit," Turner reflected after the match, where Palace held onto their early lead through Eberechi Eze's fourth-minute strike. "It's good for us to go through these types of moments, these types of games and come out with a win."

The U.S. international goalkeeper, making only his second appearance of the season, proved crucial in preserving Palace's advantage with four saves, including a vital stop to deny Isaac Olaofe following a defensive mix-up. While pleased with the clean sheet, Turner acknowledged the team could have made things easier for themselves.

"I wish that we could have threatened their goal maybe a little bit more to get that second goal and really put the game away," he said. "But we didn't, and we had to kill off another game at 1-0."

The victory was particularly special for Turner, who had previously experienced Selhurst Park as an opposition player. "It was amazing to be here, to see the crowd, feel the energy, feel so welcome as well," he smiled. "I played here last season, but I was on the away side! I much prefer being here and being on the home side."

Fellow American Chris Richards also featured in the victory, playing 90 minutes in his third-straight start in all competitions. He couldn't convert one of several headed chances from Palace players that might have given the club a more comfortable margin.

Turner, who has now won both his appearances this season after a 2-1 Carabao Cup victory over Aston Villa in October, demonstrated his understanding of the opposition's threat. "We understand that they play good football. They put a lot of balls in the box, they create tonnes of chances in League One – in the scouting report that was very, very clear."