Despite FA Cup Defeat, Goalkeeper Made Countless Saves in a Productive Week
Ethan Horvath delivered an outstanding performance despite Cardiff City's 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa in Friday's FA Cup fifth-round clash. The American goalkeeper made seven crucial saves at Villa Park, frustrating the Premier League side for over an hour before Marco Asensio finally broke the deadlock in the 68th minute.
Horvath's heroics included denying Ollie Watkins at close range early in the match, producing a save from Leon Bailey's powerful strike, and stretching to full length to tip away John McGinn's low drive. His most impressive moment came against Marcus Rashford when he tipped away a fierce, deflected effort that seemed destined for the net. Statistics confirm Horvath's excellence, with 1.06 goals prevented based on the quality of chances faced.
Coach Omer Riza praised Horvath's performance, calling it "superb" and highlighting his shot-stopping and distribution skills. Despite facing 25 shots, 10 of which were on target from the Champions League-bound hosts, Horvath maintained composure throughout, completing 81% of his passes and successfully executing seven long balls.
This performance followed Horvath's midweek heroics in Cardiff's 1-0 victory over Hull City, where he kept a clean sheet in his first league start since August. Though he faced less pressure against Hull, making just one save from Alfie Jones's header attempt, the victory significantly moved Cardiff six points out of the Championship relegation zone.
Horvath's back-to-back strong performances couldn't have been better timing for his international prospects. The U.S. men's national team goalkeeper situation remains fluid, with presumed starter Matt Turner struggling for playing time at Crystal Palace. Meanwhile, Zack Steffen is just beginning his MLS season with the Colorado Rapids.
With Turner receiving limited minutes and Steffen still finding his rhythm in the new MLS campaign, Horvath's commanding displays for Cardiff in both cup and league competition may position him for a more prominent role in the U.S. goalkeeper hierarchy. His patience behind Jak Alnwick at Cardiff is paying off, with Alnwick's thigh injury potentially opening the door for Horvath to cement his place as the Bluebirds' first-choice goalkeeper for the remainder of the Championship season.
Center-back Had a Productive Week as Palace Won Back-to-Back Matches
Crystal Palace's Chris Richards has continued his impressive form as a key defensive pillar in Oliver Glasner's resurgent Eagles squad. The 24-year-old American defender has been instrumental in Palace's recent success, helping the team secure two significant victories in the past week.
Against Fulham at Craven Cottage, Richards played a crucial role in Crystal Palace's surprising 2-0 upset over fellow American Antonee Robinson's side. The victory was secured through an Andersen own goal and a Daniel Munoz strike assisted by Jean-Philippe Mateta. Despite controlling only 38% of possession, Palace's disciplined defensive performance, with Richards at its core, helped them climb to 13th in the Premier League table.
Midweek saw Richards deliver another standout performance as Palace dominated Aston Villa in a convincing 4-1 victory at Selhurst Park. The US international was solid defensively but contributed offensively by forcing a save from Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, leading to Ismaila Sarr's opening goal. Sarr would later complete his brace, with Mateta and Nketiah also finding the net in the comprehensive win.
Richards's consistent performances have been crucial to Palace's impressive 2025 form. Since the start of the calendar year, the team has won seven of its ten matches across all competitions. His inclusion in the starting lineup for eleven consecutive matches since December underscores his importance to Glasner's defensive setup.
Looking ahead, Richards is expected to retain his place in the squad for Saturday's FA Cup fifth-round London derby against Millwall at Selhurst Park. With Marc Guehi available after midweek treatment and Palace losing just one of their last ten games against lower-league opposition, the Eagles will be confident of progressing to the quarterfinals as they continue their impressive run of form.
Despite Recent Struggles, Milan Wants to Secure the American Until 2029
AC Milan has confirmed it is close to securing Christian Pulisic a new long-term contract. Technical director Geoffrey Moncada stated they are "very close" to finalizing the agreement. The USMNT captain is set to sign a four-year extension to keep him at the San Siro until 2029. His annual salary will increase from €4 million to €5 million before bonuses.
The renewal comes despite Pulisic's recent struggles in Serie A, where he hasn't scored a non-penalty goal since October 6. While the American attacker began the season in blistering form with five goals in his first seven league appearances, he has since experienced a concerning drought, converting only once from the penalty spot against Parma on January 26 across his last 15 Serie A matches.
His recent substitute appearance against Bologna highlighted these struggles. He created zero chances and didn't take a shot in a disappointing 2-1 defeat that left Milan languishing in eighth place in the standings. Despite his Serie A difficulties, Pulisic has shined in other competitions. He scored a record-breaking four goals in the Champions League campaign—the most by any American player in a single season—and contributed to Milan's Italian Super Cup triumph.
Pulisic will look to end his scoring drought this Sunday when Milan hosts Lazio at the San Siro. The Rossoneri enter the match in poor form after consecutive league defeats to Torino and Bologna, compounded by their Champions League elimination against Feyenoord. Milan maintains an impressive historical advantage at home against the fifth-placed Biancocelesti, with 22 wins, 11 draws, and just one defeat in their last 34 meetings at the San Siro. However, if they fail to secure a result against Marco Baroni's Champions League-chasing side, they risk suffering a third straight Serie A defeat for the first time since early 2023.
Manager Lampard Confirmed the Striker is Available This Weekend
Coventry City manager Frank Lampard has received a significant boost ahead of Saturday's lunchtime kick-off at Oxford United with the news that Haji Wright will be included in the matchday squad for the first time in almost four months.
The US international forward, who hasn't played since the 2-2 draw at Sunderland on November 9 due to an ankle injury, returns at a crucial time as the Sky Blues push for a playoff spot. Wright's availability marks a welcome return for one of City's joint leading scorers, who netted seven goals before his injury layoff. He was left off the 60-man preliminary roster for the Nations League next month.
"He's in the squad, so good," Lampard confirmed. "The last two or three weeks have been physical training without the concern of the ankle injury, which has obviously taken a while. I haven't worked with him yet, properly. He hasn't played for me, so it's a really great feeling for the group and for me to have him back available."
Lampard's squad is further strengthened by captain Ben Sheaf, who returned from the bench in last week's 2-1 victory over Preston North End. With only midfielder Victor Torp (calf) currently sidelined, Coventry is approaching full strength at the perfect time.
The Sky Blues visit Oxford in exceptional form, having won seven of their last eight league matches. Three consecutive Championship victories have propelled them to within touching distance of the playoff places, which, with a positive result at the Kassam Stadium, they could occupy for the first time this season.
Oxford, meanwhile, is struggling under Gary Rowett, having failed to score in its last four matches during a six-game winless run.
With Lampard now facing welcome selection decisions regarding Wright's reintegration alongside the in-form Ephron Mason-Clark and versatile Jamie Paterson, Coventry looks well-positioned to continue its promotion push and seek a second-ever league double over Oxford.
Duo Based in Germany Named to Nations League Preliminary Roster
Promising dual-nationals Noahkai Banks and Damion Downs have been named to the U.S. men's national team's 60-man preliminary roster for the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League Finals. Both players have yet to receive a senior USMNT call-up.
The 18-year-old Banks has rapidly established himself as one of the most promising center backs in the American pipeline. After making his senior debut with Augsburg last month, the Hawaii-born defender started five consecutive Bundesliga matches before being an unused substitute in their previous two outings. His emergence has attracted significant interest, with reports indicating that Augsburg recently rejected a high seven-figure bid from a top-five Serie A club, considering Banks key to their future plans.
While Banks is eligible for Germany, appearing for the USMNT in the Nations League would require a three-year waiting period and a one-time switch to represent the European nation in the future. Banks will look to strengthen his case for selection this weekend when Augsburg, currently sitting 11th in the Bundesliga and riding a seven-game unbeaten streak, host fourth-placed Freiburg on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Damion Downs has enjoyed a breakout season with FC Koln in the 2. Bundesliga. The 20-year-old striker, who most recently represented Germany's U-20 side last fall, has kept Koln near the top of the table. Downs demonstrated his opportunistic finishing ability earlier this month, capitalizing on a Schalke defensive error to score the lone goal in a crucial 1-0 victory.
Downs will lead Koln's attack against Karlsruher this weekend. The Billy Goats are looking to rebound from a 1-1 draw against Fortuna Dusseldorf. Despite that recent setback, Koln remains favored to secure all three points as they pursue promotion back to the Bundesliga.
On This Day in 2001, Wolff Came off the Bench to Inspire an American Victory
On a cold evening in Columbus, Ohio, a term synonymous with the US Men’s National Team was born. Dos a Cero. Two-nil. Two-to-nothing. The regional darlings Mexico came to the midwest for the first time to play the United States and left with zero points.
The US was moving in a new direction after crashing out of World Cup ‘98. Manager Steve Sampson resigned, and Bruce Arena, formerly of DC United and University of Virginia fame, was put in charge. Arena’s tenure began with a third-place finish at the 1999 Confederations Cup over the summer of 1999 before a 2000 Gold Cup Quarterfinal exit in February. The Americans won the seventh and final US Cup in June one month before the semifinal round of CONCACAF World Cup qualifying, where the US finished atop Group 3 despite earning just one point from the opening two matches. After splitting the friendly results after the January camp to open the year, the US had three weeks to prepare for Mexico to open the Hexagonal.
Arena spent time in England scouting Americans abroad in preparation for the camp one week before the match. The manager was expected to play more European-based players as they were in season. Players like Brad Freidel, Brian McBride and Claudio Reyna headlined a roster destined for Ohio. The selection of Columbus was strategic. The US Soccer Federation had been searching for the right place to play Mexico for years. This rivalry would draw big crowds in the past, but the mass majority were rooting for the Mexicans. Over the last decade, the US has hosted Mexico in California and Washington DC, which provided more pro-Mexico crowds. So the strategy was to think small and think cold. In November 2000, when the Hexagonal schedule was released, Columbus Crew General Manager Jim Smith hatched a plan to bring the match to Columbus, which had the only soccer-specific stadium at the time. The idea was to divvy tickets, starting with Crew season-ticket holders, next to in-state youth associations, and another percentage to U.S. Soccer and its supporters’ club. That allotted only 6k tickets to go on sale to the general public. This would ensure a pro-US crowd. The other factor is the weather, and Ohio on the last day in February seemed perfect until the weather report came out Tuesday night. The forecast for Wednesday, February 28, said temperatures near 40 with no rain or snow. That is barely winter.
ESPN broadcaster Jack Edwards sets the scene for the audience at home: “We come to you live from the most partisan arena the US has. A chilly reception greets the regional dynasty Mexico at the Crew Stadium in Colombus Ohio.” The pregame keyed on Reyna and McBride. Reyna, known then as Captain America, hasn’t played with the US since September, serving a two-match ban for the final two games of the semifinal round. McBride also missed the last two semifinal round matches but for medical reasons. While on loan from Columbus at Preston North End, McBride had a blood clot surgically removed from his arm, which consisted of having a rib removed. This sidelined the forward for three months. McBride had scored in all six World Cup qualifiers he had started in and scored the only goal in France in 1998. Those two also headlined the starting XI. Friedel started between the sticks. The backline consisted of David Regis, Jeff Agoos, Eddie Pope, and Tony Sanneh from left to right. Chris Armas would sit at home with Reyna in front of him. The tireless Earnie Stewart and Cobi Jones started on the flanks with Joe-Max Moore and McBride upfront.
On the other hand, Mexico lined up with five across the back with Alberto Macias, Claudio Suarez and Rafael Marquez as the three in the middle. The eccentric Jorge Campos manned the net. Mexican legend Luis Hernandez started up front and partnered with Francisco Palencia. Despite being the darlings of the region over the last 80 years, it has been rough against the Americans as of late. At the time, Mexico led the all-time series with a record 27-8-8. But since the calendar changed to the year 2000, the US has two wins in two matches, including a 3-0 win on Jun 11, 2000, to win the US Cup, though neither Mexican team was their full squad. This was the first match against the full Mexican squad since the 1-0 defeat in the Copa America Semifinal on Aug 1, 1999.
The match starts, and by the 8th minute, it takes a turn for the worse for the Americans. McBride won a header over Macias, and the forward's eye started to swell. Four minutes later, McBride ran to the sideline for treatment and “he took some nasty shot to his right eye. It literally looks like a boxing fight. His right eye is swollen shut. He just said he can’t see out of his right eye” sideline reporter Rob Stone said during the broadcast. Josh Wolff would replace McBride in the 15th minute, and the dynamic of the forward partnership would shift. McBride is known for his presence in the air and, at the time, was the fourth all-time in the men's team goalscoring list. Wolff, a 24-year-old speedy forward playing for the Chicago Fire, was relatively inexperienced at the senior national team level, and he wasn’t currently in season. It was considered a bold move with Ante Razov also available. Wolff was a key piece to the team that finished fourth at the 2000 Summer Olympics, scoring twice in the tournament. He had earned four caps up, scoring once, resulting in the 2-0 win over Mexico three months earlier.
“When you’re thrown in like that, you don’t have much time to think, and sometimes that’s a good thing. That’s how opportunity arrives sometimes, whether it’s injury or sometimes just late in a game. You’ve got to get up to speed quickly.” Wolff recalled in an interview with SI. Within four minutes on the field, he had a chance to score the opener after Moore dribbled to the end line and played a low inviting cross. His subsequent significant involvement saw Marquez dropping Wolff after a slide tackle in the middle of the field. Salvadorian referee Rodolfo Sibrian showed the defender the match's first yellow card. Wolff made sure the Mexican defenders knew he was tough too, fouling Salvador Carmona near the sideline, receiving a yellow card of his own in the 41’. Wolff was caught on camera telling Campos “That was bullshit” with a smirk on his face.
Things went from bad to worse for the United States when Claudio Reyna was replaced by Clint Mathis in the 43’. Reyna had pulled his groin after attempting a pass about 15 minutes prior and tried to play through it before being removed right before halftime. At the time, Mathis had just enjoyed a fantastic first season with the NY/NJ MetroStars, where he finished second in the league in scoring with 16 goals and 14 assists and was named to the MLS Best XI. On the international level, though, Mathis had only five caps and one goal in three years with the national team. Mathis actually declined knee surgery so he could play in this game. The half ended in a goalless stalemate. It was not a great half for the United States, which made two changes due to injury and lost two of the better-attacking players on the team.
The second half started fast, and Chris Armas put Marquez on the floor near midfield just 30 seconds in. The play restarts, and Marco Ruiz throws in a cross from the left wing. Agoos cleared the ball out to about 40 yards from goal. Moore won the second ball, and his one-timed pass fell to Mathis. As Mathis plays the ball over the top, Wolff springs loose and gets behind the high Mexican line. As Wolff is catching up to the ball, Campos charges out of his box to win the ball first. Wolff gets the first touch and, after spinning all the way around, took one more touch before slotting the ball in the empty net. The goal came one minute and eight seconds into the second half with both substitutes combining to give the United States the 1-0. "That play, Clint and I played together for several years and know each other’s strengths. That was two guys being on the same page at the moment, two guys being aware of who they are and what the situation is," Wolff said. The duo played together at the University of South Carolina in the mid-1990s.
With the one-goal lead, the Yanks settled in, and Moore had a chance four minutes later where it looked like the forward would have a free shot before Macias came back to make the tackle. In the 65’ after an Agoos corner was cleared, Jones hit a shot on the volley from over 20 yards out that was goal-bound before it hit Regis. On the replay, that shot was toward the corner and is 50/50 if Campos is making the save. Freidel made his biggest save of the night came four minutes later, denying Francisco Palencia from point-blank range. Over the next 10 minutes, the United States weathered a few Mexico attacks, including one halted by a Moore slide tackle in the box in the 76th minute. Freidel was called into action again in the 79’ minute, catching Palencia’s shot. Arena made his final change not long after, replacing offense for defense with Carlos Llamosa coming on for Moore. The formation switched to five in the back to close out this final 10 minutes and a little extra. In the 87th minute, Mathis and Wolff connected again when Mathis played over the top to the right corner. Wolff went down toward the corner flag before earning a throw-in.
Jones takes the throw-in, and Wolff is double-teamed on the right sideline. His man-of-the-match performance was solidified when he turned and beat the double-team, drove the ball on the end line, and played the ball back into the middle of the box before being crushed by Campos. The ball appears to be setting up for Mathis to strike before Stewart enters the picture and smashes the ball into the open net. The lead was doubled. Three points to start the Hexagonal was imminent. The broadcast just lets the sounds of the stadium fill the air for the next 20 seconds or so. A turning point in the team’s history. About two minutes later, a minor scuffle ensues, with Hernandez giving Sanneh a forearm to the face. After a few minutes to calm down, no yellow cards were issued. The match was called two and a half minutes into stoppage time before a Mexican corner kick. The United States beat the regional powerhouse. It happened in an American city with mostly pro-American support. It was only Mexico’s 10th loss in its qualifying history. The win marked the first time the US won three straight over Mexico and the first win in World Cup qualifying against Mexico since 1980. After the match, Wolff exchanged kits with Campos. Both played for the Chicago Fire in 1998.
Arena had nothing but praises for this early substitute — “Wolff was terrific. He really pulled it off at the end of the game. It’s not that we had to get him the game, but thought Josh’s speed would be a factor, and he was able to get behind the defense.” The United States would use this win as a springboard in its Hexagonal journey, rattling off wins over Honduras and Costa Rica for nine points from the opening three matches. After a draw with Jamaica and a win over Trinidad and Tobago, the US lost three straight, including the reverse fixture against Mexico. The team would secure its spot to South Korea/Japan with the 2-1 win over Jamaica on Oct 7, 2001, setting up a remarkable summer in 2002, where the name Dos a Cero would be cemented in the history books.
On This Day in 2000, the Forward Scored in His Fifth Straight Match as Everton Rolls Past West Ham
When Joe-Max Moore signed with Everton in November 1999, he called it a dream come true. "People talk about Serie A in Italy and the Spanish League," the American forward said at the time, "but for me, it doesn't get any better than the Premier League."
Four months later, Moore is proving he belongs among England's elite.
The Oklahoma native's rise at Goodison Park has been remarkable. After arriving as an unknown quantity in December, his initial assignment of the number 23 shirt seemed to reflect his distance from the starting lineup. Moore announced himself to English football on January 15 with a dramatic injury-time equalizer against Tottenham Hotspur after coming on as a late substitute. That goal opened the floodgates, sparking an extraordinary run that has seen the American score six goals in seven matches.
When he first arrived, skeptics dubbed him "Joe-Max Less," and broadcasters, stumped by his hyphenated first name, simply called him "Max Moore." But the 29-year-old American has silenced doubters with his clinical finishing and work rate, and during that scoring stretch from mid-January to late February, Moore's goals were crucial to Everton's success, helping the Toffees secure five wins and a draw in league play.
"Am I surprised by my success?" Moore reflected. "No, not really, to be honest. I am surprised that it has happened so quickly. The opportunities I've got to score, I've finished. It's resulted in me becoming a bigger part of the team."
That scintillating scoring stretch was capped in the emphatic 4-0 victory over West Ham at Upton Park on February 26, where Moore added Everton's fourth goal in the 71st minute. After Nicky Barmby had secured his hat-trick, Moore showed his predatory instincts again, coolly slotting home after being fed through by Barmby to complete the rout.
The goal highlighted Moore's remarkable adaptation to English football, particularly impressive given his modest 5'9", 150-pound frame. "The Premiership is tough and fast," Moore acknowledged. "The toughest thing is getting an opportunity to prove yourself, but I have my confidence."
For a player who turned down the chance to stay in MLS to chase his Premier League dreams, Moore's gamble on himself is paying off handsomely. His remarkable scoring run has endeared him to the Everton faithful and cemented his place in U.S. soccer history as one of the first American-born forwards to make a significant impact in one of Europe's top leagues.
He finished the rest of the 1999-2000 with eight goals in 17 matches across all competitions and Everton finished 13th. Moore scored a brace in the 4-2 win over Watford on April 1 but came off injured before halftime in the Leicester City match a week later and missed the rest of the campaign due to injury.
On This Day in 2024, the Midfielder Scored a Banger for the Insurance Goal in a Victory over Athletic Club
Johnny Cardoso's meteoric rise in Spanish football reached new heights last winter. The American midfielder scored his first La Liga goal in Real Betis' 3-1 victory over Athletic Club and was named La Liga's U23 Player of the Month.
The 22-year-old New Jersey native, who completed a €4-5 million move from Brazilian club Internacional in December 2023, has experienced a remarkably swift adaptation to Spanish football. Despite expectations of a lengthy adjustment period to European football, Cardoso had instead become an integral part of Manuel Pellegrini's squad since his debut against Barcelona on January 21
His crowning moment came on February 25 at the Benito Villamarín, where he sealed Betis' victory over Athletic Club with a thunderous strike. With his team already leading 2-1 against 10-man Athletic in the 67', Cardoso unleashed a powerful shot that put the game beyond reach, earning him his second Man of the Match award of the month. After a counter-attack was slowed, Nabil Fekir played it off to Cardoso, who was trailing the play. He unleashed a one-time effort that curled to the far post.
The goal was just one highlight in an extraordinary February for the U.S. international. After making his European debut in the Conference League against Dinamo Zagreb on February 15, Cardoso continued to impress in domestic competition. His stellar month included a crucial assist in a 2-0 victory over Cádiz on February 9, where he was named Man of the Match.
The midfielder's impressive form earned him recognition as La Liga's U23 Player of the Month, beating out prestigious competition from Real Madrid's Eduardo Camavinga, Barcelona's Lamine Yamal and others. The award caps a remarkable rise for a player who, just two months ago, was preparing to leave Brazilian football for his first European adventure. His consistent performances have also earned him a place in WhoScored's La Liga Team of the Month for February.
Betis, who identified Cardoso as a potential long-term replacement for Guido Rodriguez, has been pleasantly surprised by the American's rapid adaptation and impact. What started as a creative recruitment strategy targeting the Brazilian market has quickly transformed into one of La Liga's transfer coups of the season.
The recently revealed preliminary roster for the CONCACAF Nations League Final Four shows that the U.S. Men's National Team appears well-positioned for the upcoming semifinals. The 60-man provisional list includes many of the program's top performers and some emerging talents.
Key veterans Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Gio Reyna headline the roster, providing the experience and quality crucial in tournament play. The midfield looks particularly strong, with Tyler Adams, Brenden Aaronson, Yunus Musah, and Johnny Cardoso all named to the provisional squad—though Reyna is the only one mentioned above who has not seen consistent playing time this winter.
As mentioned earlier, Josh Sargent's impressive form makes his inclusion in the attack opportune. The striker position remains competitive, with Jesus Ferreira also in contention.
Several players demonstrated strong starts to MLS over the weekend. Jordan Morris made a statement with a brace in Seattle's 2-2 draw against Charlotte FC, while Djordje Mihailović scored twice in Colorado Rapids' 2-1 victory over LAFC in Concacaf Champions Cup play. Goalkeeper Zack Steffen also impressed, earning a clean sheet in Colorado's MLS season opener against St. Louis CITY.
Noahkai Banks and Damion Downs are among the few new names mentioned. At the same time, notable absences include injured players Folarin Balogun, Sergino Dest, Malik Tillman, and Ricardo Pepi, along with Haji Wright. Despite his recent playing time in the Eredivisie, PSV's Richy Ledezma's omission comes as a surprise.
The final 23-man roster will be announced by March 10, giving coach Mauricio Pochettino difficult decisions ahead of the semifinal against Panama on March 20 in Inglewood, California. The winner will face either Mexico or Canada in the final on March 23.
The USMNT qualified for the semifinals in November with a 4-2 aggregate victory over Trinidad and Tobago, and expectations are high that they will defend their Nations League title.
On This Day in 2024, the Fro'd Centerback Nodded Home His First League Goal for Crystal Palace in the Club's Victory over Burnley
It took some time for Chris Richards to establish himself in England following the €12-million move to Crystal Palace from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2022. A leg injury in October halted his progress at the club, and he wouldn't make his first start in the Premier League until January 2023.
After a productive summer of 2023, where Richards scored his first US goal in the 2-0 win over Canada in the Nations League Final, the American returned to the bench for a majority of the first half of the season. However, with a growing injury list and lacking depth at certain positions, Richards was handed his first start of the season at central defensive midfield in the 1-1 draw with West Ham on December 3. Over the next three months, Richards started in 12-straight matches before the February 24 match against Burnley.
His moment of glory came in the 68th minute at Selhurst Park, breaking a tense deadlock against 10-man Burnley. After Palace recycled possession from a cleared corner, Jordan Ayew delivered an inviting cross from the right wing. Unmarked at the back post, Richards showed excellent anticipation to arrive at the perfect moment, stooping low to power home a header that would open the floodgates for Palace's victory.
Richards later told the official Crystal Palace website about his goal-scoring technique with characteristic humor. When asked if he had considered volleying instead, he said, "Nah, nah, no—I grew the Fro out so I could head it. I was ready for it."
The goal proved pivotal in Oliver Glasner's first match as Palace manager, with the Eagles scoring twice more through Jordan Ayew and Jean-Philippe Mateta. Operating on the left side of Glasner's newly implemented back three, Richards put in a composed performance beyond just his goal, completing 53-of-57 passes while helping Palace control possession throughout the match.
The victory is especially significant for Palace, as it pushes them eight points clear of the relegation zone and marks their biggest home league win since April 2022. For Richards, it represents another significant step forward in his development. He had proven he could impact both ends of the pitch in England's top flight. His first goal for the club couldn't have come at a better time, helping to usher in the Glasner era with a memorable victory.
As Crystal Palace made a strong push at the end of the season, Richards was right in the mix, starting and playing every minute in the last six Premier League matches. The Eagles earned 16 out of 18 points, finishing in 10th place—the club's joint-highest finish since promotion in 2013.
Striker Notched Another Brace in Norwich's Win over Stoke
Josh Sargent continued his remarkable scoring form with a brilliant double as Norwich City secured a crucial 4-2 victory over Stoke City at Carrow Road on Saturday. The American striker's second-half brace helped the Canaries maintain their Championship play-off push, taking his tally to seven goals in his last six appearances.
After Lewis Dobbin had given Norwich a first-half lead, only for Lewis Baker to equalize before the break, Sargent took center stage with two contrasting but equally impressive finishes. His first came in the 48th minute, showing his predatory instincts to fire home after good work from Borja Sainz and Ante Crnac. However, his second goal truly showcased his growing confidence and technical ability, as he wrong-footed the Stoke defense before curling a magnificent left-footed effort into the top corner from 20 yards out.
"Quality-wise, without the scorpion kick against Watford, because that's a reaction, I think I'm probably the happiest with that one," Sargent reflected after the match. "It went exactly where I wanted to hit it, and it was a good goal. Jack Wilshere was saying in the dressing room that when I did it, he was saying, 'No, don't cut onto your left.' And he was like, 'alright, fair enough.'"
Norwich head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup praised his in-form striker, who now has 15 goal contributions in just 20 Championship appearances this season. "For what we're doing here, I think probably Josh is the best fit for us, because he can hold the ball well and he can link up with the other offensive players," Thorup said. "He has a very good timing when to arrive in the box, and then you also have his pace that we need sometimes to be able to run in behind. I'm not swapping him with anyone else."
The victory, sealed by a Junior Tchamadeu own goal before Baker's late penalty, leaves Norwich four points behind sixth-placed Blackburn Rovers ahead of their crucial clash at Ewood Park next weekend. With Sargent in this form, the Canaries' play-off hopes remain alive.
Christian Pulisic experienced the first penalty miss of his professional career as AC Milan suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Torino in Serie A on Saturday. The American forward's perfect record from the spot, which included 12 successful conversions stretching back to 2014, ended when Torino goalkeeper Sergej Milinkovic-Savic saved his first-half effort.
The crucial moment came in the 31st minute after a handball by a Torino defender gave Milan a chance to equalize following an early own goal by Malick Thiaw. Pulisic stepped up confidently, having previously converted seven penalties for the U.S. national team, three for Milan, one for Borussia Dortmund's youth team, and one for the U.S. Under-17s. However, his low strike was well-read by Milinkovic-Savic, who dove to his right to make the save.
The miss proved costly for Milan, who had to wait until the 74th minute for Tijjani Reijnders to level the score. Two minutes later, Torino substitute Gvidas Gineitis restored the hosts' lead. The defeat left Milan in seventh place, six points adrift of the Champions League places.
Reflecting on a difficult evening, Pulisic took to social media to address Milan's supporters. "Really tough week. Hate letting down this amazing fan base. Will give everything to finish this season on a positive note," he wrote on Instagram. The save continued an impressive run of form for Milinkovic-Savic, who has now saved four of the five penalties he has faced this season – more than any other goalkeeper in Europe's top five leagues.
Pulisic will look to bounce back when Milan faces Bologna on Thursday. The American is expected to retain his place in the starting lineup as the Rossoneri attempt to revive their faltering top-four hopes.
Midfielder Made Second League Start of the Season in Dortmund Victory
Borussia Dortmund manager Niko Kovac gave Giovanni Reyna a rare start on Saturday, playing 70 minutes in an attacking midfield role as BVB secured an emphatic 6-0 victory over Union Berlin. The appearance marked just the second Bundesliga start of the season for the U.S. international, who has struggled for consistent playing time throughout the campaign.
Despite contributing to a convincing team victory, Reyna had a relatively quiet individual performance. The 22-year-old managed just one touch inside the opposition penalty area. While he maintained solid passing accuracy, completing 20 of 23 attempts, his defensive contribution was less effective, with only three successful tackles from seven attempts in midfield.
Notably, Dortmund's attack came alive after Reyna's substitution in the 70th minute, with the team scoring four times in the final 20 minutes. It was Reyna's first start since the Champions League appearance against Bologna on January 21. The win was highlighted by a remarkable four-goal performance from striker Serhou Guirassy.
The rare start comes at a crucial time for Reyna's future, as he enters the final year of his contract with Dortmund. The club is reportedly open to reasonable transfer offers, having previously been willing to sell him for around €20m last January. Since the start of the 2021 season, Reyna has started just 12 Bundesliga games, with injuries and coaching changes contributing to his limited opportunities.
Dortmund hopes this commanding victory can spark a turnaround in their domestic form, as it has represented only their second Bundesliga win since the start of 2025. They return to action next Saturday against FC St. Pauli, with Reyna hoping his performance was enough to retain his place in Kovac's starting lineup.
On This Day in 1991, World Cup Manager was Removed from Post, Takes on New Role
Bob Gansler, the man who led the United States to its first World Cup appearance in 40 years, resigned as head coach of the U.S. National Team on February 23, following a disappointing 1-0 loss to Bermuda. The defeat, which marked the team's sixth consecutive game without scoring, was the final chapter in a tenure marked by historic achievement but persistent criticism.
Gansler's two-year reign as head coach produced a record of 14 wins, 17 losses and 5 draws. Still, it will forever be remembered for the dramatic victory in Trinidad and Tobago on November 19, 1989, that secured the United States' first World Cup qualification since 1950. However, the team's subsequent performance in Italy '90, where they lost all three group stage matches, combined with growing criticism of Gansler's conservative tactical approach, created mounting pressure on his position.
The change in U.S. Soccer Federation leadership from Werner Fricker to Alan Rothenberg had further complicated Gansler's situation. Rothenberg had openly criticized Gansler's methods and had made it clear the federation was seeking a replacement with more international experience. Rather than await dismissal, Gansler chose to step down.
"I've enjoyed my experience as coach of the national team," Gansler said after informing his players following the Bermuda match. "But I felt it was time to move on and give the players a little more certainty. The team we need to showcase was suffering, because neither the players nor I could perform at maximum potential under these circumstances. I guess lame ducks just don't fly that well."
The USSF appointed John Kowalski, coach of Robert Morris College and the U.S. indoor team, as interim manager while searching for a permanent replacement. Gansler would transition to a new role as the federation's national director of coaching and player development, focusing on identifying top talent and upgrading coaching education programs.
Just one month after Gansler's departure, the USSF found its man in Bora Milutinovic, the Yugoslav coach who had led Mexico and Costa Rica to World Cup success. Fresh from guiding Costa Rica to the second round of the 1990 World Cup, Milutinovic signed a contract to lead the U.S. team through the 1994 World Cup on home soil. The experienced tactician expressed confidence in American soccer's potential, boldly declaring his mission was "to show everybody that even Americans know how to play soccer" and predicting the team could reach the second round of the '94 tournament.
Despite the disappointing end to his national team tenure, Gansler would find considerable success in professional soccer, leading the Kansas City Wizards to an MLS championship in 2000 and earning MLS Coach of the Year honors in the same season. While complex, his legacy with the national team includes the distinction of being the coach who ended America's four-decade World Cup drought.
On This Day in 2021, the Midfielder Lashed Home His Fourth Serie A Goal, Surpassing Bradley for Most by an American
When Weston McKennie joined Juventus on loan from Schalke 04 in August 2020, he made history as the first American to don the famous black and white stripes of the Italian giants and he became just the fifth U.S. player to feature in Serie A. Wearing the number 14 shirt, McKennie wasted no time making his mark in Turin. His early performances showcased the versatility and energy that would quickly endear him to the Juventus faithful.
The American's first goal for the Bianconeri came dramatically during the Derby della Mole against city rivals Torino on December 5, when he netted a crucial equalizer in an eventual 2-1 victory. Just three days later, McKennie produced a moment of magic in the Champions League, scoring a spectacular scissor kick volley against Barcelona in a 3-0 win that secured top spot in their group. The new year brought continued success, as McKennie scored against AC Milan in a 3-1 victory on January 6, 2021, helping end the league leaders' 27-game unbeaten run.
On February 22, McKennie added another chapter to his growing legacy in Italian football. With Juventus already leading Crotone 2-0 thanks to a Cristiano Ronaldo brace, the American midfielder struck in the 66th minute. After Federico Chiesa delivered a cross into the box, McKennie showed excellent control before rifling the ball into the roof of the net. The goal was his fourth in Serie A, making him the highest-scoring American in the league's history, surpassing Michael Bradley's previous record of three goals during his time with Chievo and AS Roma.
True to his character, McKennie celebrated the historic moment with the Harry Potter celebration, pretending to cast a spell with an imaginary wand – a nod to his love of Harry Potter, complete with a tattoo to prove his devotion to the magical series. "I am actually a big Harry Potter fan," McKennie had explained to DAZN after a goal against Bologna a month earlier. "I have a tattoo on my hand, so it was a magic spell."
The 3-0 victory was crucial for Juventus, snapping a three-match winless run and moving them up to third place in the Serie A standings, eight points behind leaders Inter Milan with a game in hand. For McKennie, it was another milestone in what was proving to be a remarkable debut season in Italian football, as he continued establishing himself as a key figure in Andrea Pirlo's squad. His impressive performances and consistent impact led Juventus to trigger his purchase option early, and on March 3, secure his services permanently for €18.5 million plus potential bonuses.
Midfielder Has Been Key to Bournemouth's Recent Success
Tyler Adams continues to prove instrumental in Bournemouth's remarkable Premier League campaign, with another stellar performance in their 3-1 victory over Southampton last Saturday. The U.S. international dominated the midfield with impressive statistics, including a 91 percent passing completion rate and 69 touches throughout the full 90 minutes, while also creating two attacking opportunities.
The win propelled the Cherries into fifth place in the Premier League standings, just one point behind Manchester City in the race for Champions League qualification. This latest success is part of an extraordinary run that has seen Bournemouth lose just once in their last 15 matches across all competitions.
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has been effusive in his praise for Adams, who has overcome early-season injury struggles to become a cornerstone of the team's success. "I think he's been the player we expected, even better probably," Iraola remarked. "Now that he's fully fit, available, full of energy, we are seeing the player he is. And I think he's a player that fits very well into our system."
The manager highlighted Adams' leadership qualities and tactical understanding, noting that the American midfielder serves as an additional coach on the field. "He has some natural leadership, and I think he understands the game quite well," Iraola observed, grouping Adams with other experienced midfielders who can "adjust things live in games."
Having recently turned 26, Adams has started seven consecutive matches for Bournemouth, contributing three assists during this period. His return to full fitness has coincided with the team's impressive form, which includes scoring 12 goals in their last four Premier League matches. With Adams orchestrating play from the center of the park, Bournemouth's pursuit of European football for the 2025-26 season appears increasingly realistic.
Winger's Goal Stood After Some Confusion in Champions League Defeat
Tim Weah's first Champions League goal was bittersweet as Juventus crashed out of Europe's elite competition following a 4-3 aggregate defeat to PSV Eindhoven. The U.S. men's national team winger, deployed at right back, momentarily gave the Italian giants hope with a spectacular strike that briefly put them ahead in the tie.
The goal came after PSV had initially leveled the aggregate score through Ivan Perišić. When a Juventus free-kick from the left flank was only partially cleared, Weah seized his opportunity from outside the area. The American demonstrated excellent technique to hammer a low shot past an unsighted Walter Benítez in the PSV goal. Although the strike was initially ruled out for a potential offside, VAR intervened to confirm Weah's maiden Champions League goal.
However, the joy was short-lived, as PSV's relentless pressure eventually paid off. Ismael Saibari equalized before Ryan Flamingo's extra-time winner sent the Dutch side through to the round of 16, where they will face Arsenal.
"It's a very difficult moment," Weah reflected after the match. "We didn't progress to the next round and I'm very disappointed also because my goal didn't help. We lacked some aggression; we didn't manage to show it on the pitch as we should have."
The defeat highlighted Juventus's struggles to contain PSV's attacking threats throughout the second half, with the home crowd in Eindhoven driving their team forward. Despite Weah's moment of individual brilliance, the Italian side's defensive frailties were ultimately exposed, leaving them with only domestic competitions to focus on for the remainder of the season. The result means Inter will be Serie A's sole representative in the Champions League's round of 16.
Winger Opposes Reports of Any Issue with AC Milan Manager
AC Milan star Christian Pulisic has vehemently denied reports of a rift with manager Sérgio Conceição following the club's disappointing Champions League exit to Feyenoord. Italian publication La Repubblica had claimed the American was unhappy with Conceição's "rigid methods" and had requested to leave the club, but Pulisic. Still, quickly took to social media to dismiss these allegations.
"I never argued with the coach, and I never asked to leave," Pulisic stated. "I'm very happy at Milan and want to keep wearing this jersey. Reading these lies is unacceptable, but we'll all stay united and keep fighting on the field for the club and our fans."
Conceição has also addressed the controversy, expressing frustration with persistent media "lies" that make his job more challenging. The Portuguese coach revealed that Pulisic is not currently at full fitness. This explains his recent substitutions in both legs of the Champions League playoff and his appearances from the bench in Milan's last two league matches.
"Pulisic doesn't have 90 minutes in his legs," Conceição explained ahead of Saturday's Serie A clash with Torino. "For the style of play I want, he needs to be intense for the full 90 minutes."
Despite his fitness concerns, Pulisic trained with the group ahead of the Torino match and could feature in an attacking lineup alongside João Félix, Rafael Leão, and Santiago Giménez. The American will be eager to put the controversy behind him and help Milan recover from their European disappointment. Conceição is considering whether to start all four attackers or opt for a more balanced approach by including Yunus Musah in the lineup.
On This Day in 1999, the Former Captain Bids Farewell to the International Game
Thomas Dooley's journey to becoming a United States captain began with a 4:30 AM phone call in December 1991 that would change his life forever. The German-born defender, who had never set foot in America, learned he was eligible to play for the U.S. national team through his American serviceman father, Courtney Joseph Dooley.
For Dooley, who had built a sterling career in Germany's Bundesliga with over 250 professional appearances, including a championship with Kaiserslautern in 1991, it was an unexpected second chance at World Cup dreams that injuries had seemingly denied him in Germany. Speaking little English beyond basic phrases, he arrived in America in April 1992, taking a significant pay cut but embracing a new chapter that would make him one of U.S. Soccer's most influential figures in the 90s.
His impact was immediate and lasting. By 1993, he was named U.S. Soccer Player of the Year, memorably scoring twice against his native Germany in the U.S. Cup. His leadership and experience proved invaluable as the U.S. hosted the 1994 World Cup; by 1998, he had ascended to team captain for the World Cup in France.
On February 21, 1999, at age 37, Dooley made his 81st and final appearance for the United States in a 2-1 victory over Chile at Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. Before the match, he was honored by the U.S. Soccer Federation for his service to the national team, taking the field one last time in distinctive red and white boots that matched his confident personality.
"Thomas Dooley is still good enough to play for the U.S. team right now," said then-new U.S. coach Bruce Arena. "But will he be around for 2002? No. We need to find the perfect mix of young players and veterans by the year 2000, which is why games like this one are so important."
The match proved a fitting backdrop for Dooley's farewell as he watched a new generation of American talent emerge. His free kick helped set up Eddie Lewis's game-winning goal in the 65th minute, with Brian McBride winning the initial header, helping to secure just the second U.S. victory over Chile in six meetings.
After the match, Dooley offered an optimistic assessment of American soccer's future. "We're definitely doing things the right way," he said. "I'd say 90 percent of this team today will play in the World Cup qualifying. And there's a lot of young talent here, a lot of depth. It just takes time."
The symbolism of the day was not lost on anyone. As 21-year-old Ben Olsen scored his first international goal, it highlighted the generational shift - Olsen had been just three years old when Dooley signed his first professional contract in Germany in 1980.
Dooley's legacy with the U.S. national team extended far beyond his 81 caps. From his arrival as a non-English speaking defender to becoming team captain, he embodied the determination and professionalism that would help elevate American soccer on the international stage. His journey from being taunted as a child in Germany for his American name to proudly wearing the U.S. captain's armband completed a remarkable circle, leaving an indelible mark on U.S. Soccer history.
A fascinating Premier League clash awaits at Craven Cottage on Saturday. Eighth-placed Fulham will host Crystal Palace, and American internationals Antonee Robinson and Chris Richards will feature prominently for their respective sides.
Robinson enters the match in excellent form, having contributed to Fulham's impressive run of four wins from their last five matches. The left-back, who has been linked with a potential summer move to Liverpool, has established himself as one of the Premier League's most consistent performers this season, with 10 assists to his name. Recent comments about facing top attackers have highlighted his growing confidence, with the American notably stating he feels comfortable defending against stars like Mohamed Salah and Bukayo Saka.
On the opposing side, Chris Richards has enjoyed a successful first year under Oliver Glasner at Crystal Palace, where he's expected to start in a back three alongside Marc Guehi and Maxence Lacroix. The 24-year-old defender, who recently made headlines by investing in his hometown USL Championship side Birmingham Legion FC, has made over 50 appearances for Palace since joining from Bayern Munich in 2022.
The match presents an intriguing tactical battle between Fulham's 4-2-3-1 formation and Palace's 3-4-2-1 setup. Robinson will likely push forward to support Alex Iwobi in attack, while Richards must be alert to the threat posed by Adama Traore's pace on Fulham's right flank.
Palace come into the match having won four of their last six matches in all competitions despite a recent setback against Everton, while Fulham's recent form and strong home record make them slight favorites. The head-to-head statistics suggest a close encounter, with four of the last six meetings between these teams ending in draws.
Striker Seeking First Action Since November Injury
Coventry City's leading scorer Haji Wright is on the verge of making his long-awaited return to action after a three-and-a-half-month layoff due to an ankle injury. The U.S. international, who hasn't featured since November, has returned to full training and could be in contention for this weekend's Championship clash with Preston North End at the CBS Arena.
Manager Frank Lampard, who has not worked with Wright since taking charge of the Sky Blues, will decide on the striker's availability after today's training session. "He's going well, and he's certainly turned his corner now," Lampard said. "Now it's about getting his match fitness up so he's ready to be able to contribute on the pitch because I know he's an important player."
Wright's potential return comes at an opportune time for Coventry, which is riding a wave of momentum with six wins from its last seven matches. His availability, along with the recent return of Ephron Mason-Clark and the signing of Jamie Paterson, would significantly boost Lampard's attacking options as the Sky Blues push for promotion.
"We're getting back to a place where we have competition for places," Lampard explained. "You need, in this physical league, in-game chances to impact games. I'm not going to complain about having it, it's a really positive thing, and it gives me options in different ways because of the adaptability of Haji, Ephron and Pato."
While Wright is close to making his comeback, Lampard emphasized that he won't rush the striker back into action, suggesting his return could be delayed until next week if necessary. The manager will base his decision on how Wright responds to today's final training session and his overall match fitness levels.
On This Day in 2022, Aaronson Continued His Most Productive Season to Date
Brenden Aaronson's star continued to rise in February 2022, with the American midfielder adding another highlight to what was already proving to be a breakthrough season for Red Bull Salzburg. The 21-year-old's campaign was firm in his second season in Europe, accumulating four goals and eight assists across 29 appearances in all competitions.
His growing influence was best displayed in Salzburg's impressive UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg against Bayern Munich on February 16. Against the Bundesliga giants, Aaronson showcased his creative abilities by providing a clever flicked assist to Chukwubuike Adamu, becoming just the fourth U.S. international to record an assist in the Champions League knockout stages. The Medford, New Jersey native nearly doubled his impact minutes later, forcing Bayern goalkeeper Sven Ulreich into a diving save with a well-struck left-footed effort.
The performance against Bayern had caught the attention of clubs across Europe. Leeds United had already shown their interest through a $20 million bid in the January transfer window, an offer that Salzburg deemed insufficient for their prized midfielder.
Four days after the Bayern clash on February 20, Aaronson demonstrated his remarkable stamina and quality by delivering another standout performance in Salzburg's crucial league matchup against second-placed Wolfsberger. Despite the quick turnaround from Champions League action, he showed no signs of fatigue as he played the full 90 minutes.
His impact on the game peaked in the closing stages when he scored Salzburg's second goal to secure a 2-0 victory. The sequence exemplified Aaronson's box-to-box abilities, as he initiated the attack with a long pass from midfield before making a decisive run into the penalty area. When Maurits Kjaergaard delivered a low cross from the left, Aaronson was perfectly positioned at the far post to finish from just outside the six-yard box.
The victory extended Salzburg's lead at the top of the Austrian Bundesliga to 17 points, putting them firmly on course for another league title. However, the momentum of Aaronson's stellar season would face an unexpected setback following this match. A knee injury would force him to withdraw from the upcoming World Cup qualifiers with the U.S. Men's National Team, where he had been the only player to appear in all 11 matches of the qualifying campaign at the time. The MCL injury would sideline him for a month and a half, temporarily halting what had been a some solid form for both club and country.
On This Day in 2006, After Being Traded Away from Dallas a Few Days Earlier, the Striker Scores for the National Team on his Former Home Field
Eddie Johnson had already established himself as a prolific scorer for the U.S. Men's National Team. His goal-scoring prowess was particularly evident in World Cup qualifying, where he scored seven goals in six matches, putting him third all-time in team history at the time. After battling toe injuries that limited his 2005 season with FC Dallas, Johnson found himself on the move just days before a friendly against Guatemala when he was traded to the Kansas City Wizards on February 14.
The trade left Johnson feeling slighted, and he made his feelings known dramatically during the February 19 friendly at Pizza Hut Park in Frisco, Texas. After entering as a halftime substitute, Johnson needed just 67 seconds to make his mark, splitting two defenders and finishing past Guatemalan goalkeeper Ricardo Jerez. His celebration spoke volumes as he turned his back to the crowd at his former home stadium and defiantly pulled at his U.S. jersey.
"I couldn't ask for anything else but to score a goal," Johnson said afterward. "It made me feel good about myself. It's kind of a slap back in their face, saying, 'Why are you trading me?'"
The goal, Johnson's ninth in just 12 international appearances, was part of a commanding 4-0 victory for the Americans. Chris Klein starred with a goal and two assists, setting up Ben Olsen and Brian Ching, as the U.S. continued their strong World Cup preparation form despite missing several key players. The European-based contingent was absent, while players from the Los Angeles Galaxy and New England Revolution were released to prepare for CONCACAF Champions Cup matches.
The central defensive pairing of Eddie Pope and Jimmy Conrad impressed, with U.S. coach Bruce Arena noting it as "one of the strengths of our team." The duo were the only players to start all four friendlies during the domestic camp, with Conrad making a strong push for World Cup roster consideration alongside the veteran Pope, a two-time World Cup veteran.
Despite the chilly conditions at Pizza Hut Park, with a 24-degree wind chill at kickoff, 14,453 fans turned out to watch the Americans' final domestic tune-up before the World Cup. While impressive on scoreline, the result came against a Guatemala side that showed the effects of having gathered less than a week before the match, in contrast to the U.S. team's seven weeks of daily training.
The win improved the U.S. to 3-0-1 in their 2006 schedule, with European-based friendlies against Poland and Germany on the horizon as Bruce Arena's squad continued their preparation for that summer's World Cup in Germany. The match also marked the debut of Nike's new U.S. World Cup jerseys, inspired by the 1950 team that famously defeated England.
On This Day in 2021, the Striker, Yet to Represent the US, Nets Winner in Seven-Goal Thriller
After a difficult start to his Young Boys career, during which he failed to score in his first 10 Swiss Super League appearances, Jordan Pefok found his scoring touch spectacularly during the 2020-21 season. The Washington D.C.-born striker, on loan from French side Rennes, netted 10 goals in 23 league appearances and was proving to be a key figure in Young Boys' attack.
But in the Europa League Round of 32 first leg against Bayer Leverkusen, Pefok announced himself on the European stage. On the memorable February 18 night in Switzerland, Young Boys raced to a stunning 3-0 first-half lead against their German opponents. Pefok contributed one of the goals alongside strikes from Christian Fassnacht and Meschack Elia.
The comfortable lead wouldn't last, as Leverkusen mounted a fierce comeback. Patrik Schick led the charge with two goals as the Bundesliga side fought back to level the match at 3-3, threatening to overturn Young Boys' early advantage. However, with just one minute remaining in regular time, Pefok emerged as the hero, scoring his second goal of the match to give Young Boys a dramatic 4-3 victory.
It was an effortless finish for Pefok. After Gianluca Gaudino's effort was saved onto the post, Pefok crashed the net and was the quickest to the tap-in. The brace was part of a three-goal performance across both legs as Young Boys eliminated Leverkusen 6-3 on aggregate. Though their European journey would end in the next round with a 5-0 aggregate loss to Ajax, Pefok's performances had caught attention well beyond Switzerland.
Just weeks after his Europa League heroics, Pefok received his first call-up to the U.S. Men's National Team in March. The 24-year-old striker, eligible to represent France (where he had previously played at the U-21 level) and Cameroon through his parents, declared his intention to represent the United States.
"Yes, I have decided," Pefok said. "I made my choice a few weeks ago. I will be very happy to play for the USMNT. I am very focused right now with YB and hope to play with the national team- if that possibility is presented."
He debuted during that March international window, starting the second match against Jamaica. Pefok made his most significant impact on the national team when three months later, on June 3, he nodded home the 89th-minute winner to secure a spot in the Nations League Final with a 1-0 win over Honduras.
Striker Keeps Scoring as Norwich Draws with Hull City
Josh Sargent continued his remarkable scoring form on Saturday, netting his fifth goal in five games to help Norwich City secure a 1-1 draw against struggling Hull City in the Championship. The American striker's clinical finish came just two minutes after halftime, providing a crucial equalizer for the Canaries who had fallen behind in the first half.
The goal showcased Sargent's predatory instincts, as he made a decisive run to the near post to meet a cross from teammate Kellen Fisher. His glancing header proved unstoppable, demonstrating why he's considered one of the Championship's premier strikers. The goal was particularly noteworthy as it came during a period when Norwich needed inspiration, having been largely outplayed in the first half.
Hull had taken the lead through Matt Crooks, who capitalized on Lewie Coyle's well-placed pull-back to give the hosts a deserved advantage. However, Sargent's equalizer shifted the match's momentum, with Norwich showing significantly more attacking intent in the second half. The Canaries even had opportunities to secure all three points, most notably when Borja Sainz struck the post and saw his follow-up attempt deflected wide.
The draw leaves Norwich four points behind the Championship play-off places. Still, manager Johannes Hoff Thorup remained optimistic about his team's prospects, particularly highlighting Sargent's importance to the side. "When you have a player like him, you are always in the game," Thorup noted, emphasizing the need to create more opportunities for his in-form striker.
In an amusing subplot to the match, a squirrel's pitch invasion during the build-up to Sargent's goal added an unexpected element to the proceedings. Thorup later joked about the possibility of the furry pitch invader being from his own garden. The incident quickly became a talking point on social media, with Norwich fans playfully calling for the club to sign up their newfound lucky charm.
Pair Earned Clean Sheet Against Dundee Before Champions League Match Wednesday
Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty enjoyed a relatively comfortable afternoon at the heart of Celtic's defense as they helped secure another clean sheet in their convincing victory over Dundee United on Saturday. The center-back pairing, who will face a significantly sterner test against Bayern Munich in Tuesday's Champions League play-off second leg, were rarely troubled by the visitors at Celtic Park.
Carter-Vickers demonstrated his usual composure in dealing with United striker Sam Dalby while contributing to Celtic's build-up play with precise passing to the wide areas. The American international's assured performance was particularly encouraging ahead of the crucial European fixture, where Celtic will attempt to overturn a 2-1 deficit in Germany.
Trusty, meanwhile, had a quiet defensive shift but made his mark going forward, providing the assist for Jota's excellent goal. The defender also showed his attacking instincts late in the game, nearly adding his name to the scoresheet with a half-volley attempt in stoppage time that went wide of the target.
After the match, Carter-Vickers expressed confidence about Celtic's chances in Munich, citing their improved second-half performance in the first leg. He highlighted Celtic's defensive solidity in the first leg, noting that despite conceding twice, they had limited Bayern's clear-cut chances.
"As long as it's one goal, it's definitely game on," he stated. "For us, it’s probably about going over there and either trying to keep that scoreline or better it for as long as we can, and trying to take the game over there to the dying minutes of that game."
The defensive duo's solid performance against Dundee United helped maintain Celtic's impressive home record in the Scottish Premiership. They have conceded in just one league game at Celtic Park all season. This defensive stability will be crucial as they prepare for what promises to be a challenging night in Munich.
Young National Team Beat Cuba to Advance to World Cup in November
The United States Under-17 Men's National Team secured their record 19th FIFA U-17 World Cup qualification with a professional 2-0 victory over Cuba in their final Concacaf U-17 Qualifier match. The win completed a perfect group stage campaign for the Americans, who finished with a remarkable 31-0 goal differential across their three games.
Despite facing their toughest test of the tournament against a defensively organized Cuban side, the U.S. breakthrough came in the 23rd minute through the prolific Chase Adams. The forward, who took his impressive tournament tally to 11 goals, finished clinically at the far post after captain Maximo Carrizo drove to the byline and delivered a precise low cross.
The lead was doubled eight minutes later when Carrizo turned from provider to scorer, meeting Jamir Johnson's cross with a first-time finish to effectively seal qualification for Qatar 2025. The two-goal cushion reflected the Americans' dominance. However, Cuba showed resilience and threatened occasionally on the counter-attack, forcing U.S. goalkeeper Jack Kortkamp into his busiest performance of the qualifiers, including a spectacular save from Lazaro Diaz's long-range effort in the 69th minute.
The team's 31 goals set a new U.S. record for these qualifiers, surpassing their previous best of 28 goals in 2019. The U.S. will head to Qatar to add to its impressive record in the tournament, including a third-place finish in 1999 and quarter-final appearances in 1991, 1993, 2003, 2005, and 2017. The U.S. shared the record for most U-17 World Cup appearances with Brazil, who will have a chance to qualify for their 19th appearance in April.
Midfielder Subs On for First Appearance for New Club
Lennard Maloney made his eagerly anticipated Mainz debut Sunday against his former club Heidenheim, entering the match in the 79th minute as a substitute for Nadiem Amiri. The American midfielder, who joined Mainz in January with a contract through 2028, finally got his first taste of action after being an unused substitute in his first three matches with his new club.
The timing of Maloney's introduction came as Mainz was looking to protect their 2-0 lead, earned through Jonathan Burkhardt's first-half strike and Nelson Weiper's second-half goal. During his 11-minute cameo, Maloney showed glimpses of why Mainz sporting director Niko Bungert praised his defensive qualities upon signing him, winning a crucial aerial duel and making two clearances as the visitors came under late pressure from his former teammates. The 24-year-old defensive midfielder completed four of his eight attempted passes, including one accurate long ball and two passes into the final third, as Mainz successfully saw out the victory.
The debut marked a significant moment for Maloney, who had described Mainz as a "great fit" following his winter transfer. His introduction helped the visitors withstand a late surge from Heidenheim, with goalkeeper Robin Zentner ultimately preserving the clean sheet with a crucial save in the closing moments. While it was a relatively short first appearance, it represented an essential step for Maloney as he began his career with Die Nullfünfer after impressing at Heidenheim over the previous year and a half.
Despite New Manager, Midfielder Still Out of Starting XI
Gio Reyna's frustrating season at Borussia Dortmund continued. He made another brief cameo appearance in Saturday's 2-0 defeat to Bochum. The American midfielder was introduced for the final 10 minutes but was unable to help his side avoid their second consecutive Bundesliga defeat.
The 21-year-old's limited role reflects his ongoing struggles to secure regular playing time under new manager Niko Kovač. In his last five league appearances, Reyna has played just 52 minutes combined—10 against Bochum, five against Stuttgart, three against Heidenheim, three against Frankfurt and 31 against Holstein Kiel, where he scored his second goal of the season. He was an unused substitute in the 3-0 loss to Sporting in the Champions League and the 2-2 draw with Werder Bremen.
His most significant contribution in recent weeks came in the Europa Conference League, where he registered an assist during a 26-minute substitute appearance in the 3-1 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk on January 29. However, Reyna hasn't started a match since playing 64 minutes in the 2-1 defeat to Bologna, highlighting his peripheral role in the squad.
This limited playing time represents a stark contrast from his breakthrough 2020-21 season when he formed part of an exciting attacking quartet alongside Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland and Jadon Sancho. Alexi Lalas recently suggested it might be time for Reyna to look elsewhere, noting that Dortmund's recent managerial change hasn't improved his prospects for regular minutes. With the club currently struggling in 11th place in the Bundesliga, Reyna's path to consistent playing time appears increasingly challenging as he attempts to revive his career at the Signa Iduna Park. His next chance will be on Wednesday when Dortmund host Sporting in the Champions League.
Winger Continues Form After Winning Player of the Month
Alejandro Zendejas continued his impressive form for Club América, providing a crucial assist in their dramatic 3-2 home defeat to Necaxa. The U.S. international's pinpoint inswinging cross found Álvaro Fidalgo in the six-yard box in the 59th minute, allowing his teammate to score his second goal and temporarily draw América level.
The assist adds to what has been an outstanding start to 2024 for Zendejas, who was recently named Liga MX's Player of the Month for January after contributing three goals and three assists in just four matches. His creative influence helped propel Las Águilas to the top of the table with 16 points from a possible 18 before this weekend's setback.
Despite Zendejas' continued strong play, América couldn't maintain its unbeaten start to the Clausura. After falling behind 2-0 in the first half, it mounted a spirited comeback through Fidalgo's brace—the second created by Zendejas—but ultimately succumbed to Kevin Rosero's stoppage-time winner after being reduced to ten men. The defeat marks a rare stumble for Zendejas and América, who had been stellar since their Apertura title triumph.
On This Day in 2000, Midfielder's Header was the Difference in Gold Cup Victory over Peru
While Eric Wynalda fought to extend his national team career in early 2000, his former high school teammate Cobi Jones was experiencing a career renaissance. The dreadlocked midfielder, who had established himself as a key figure for the LA Galaxy and the US Men's National Team throughout the 1990s, showcased the form that had made him the MLS's leading scorer the previous season.
After helping the Americans defeat Chile 2-1 with a late winner on January 29, Jones carried that momentum into the CONCACAF Gold Cup by scoring in the opening match against Haiti, a 3-0 US win. On a humid Miami night at the Orange Bowl, with 36,004 fans in attendance, Jones would continue his remarkable scoring run in a crucial match on February 16 against Peru that would determine Group B positioning.
The first half was sluggish, with neither team generating much attacking flair. Peru's defensive pressure stifled U.S. playmaker Claudio Reyna, while forwards Wynalda and Brian McBride struggled to find service. Jones provided some early sparks down the right flank, but the teams went into halftime scoreless.
The breakthrough finally came in the 59th minute through brilliance between two former UCLA Bruins. Eddie Lewis, who had endured a difficult first half on the left wing, created space by wrong-footing defender Roberto Holsen with a sharp turn. Rather than using his preferred left foot, Lewis delivered a right-footed cross that found Jones unmarked 10 yards from goal. Jones rose above the Peruvian defense and powered his header past goalkeeper Oscar Ibanez.
"[Lewis] made a very good move to turn the defender and put the cross right there for me," Jones explained afterward. "I saw it all the way and was able to see the keeper."
The goal was Jones' third in three consecutive matches - a feat not accomplished by an American player since Willy Roy in 1972. "We came out a lot stronger in the second half," Jones reflected. "The goal was just a blur to me. Eddie cut the ball back and got it across."
A third former Bruin, goalkeeper Brad Friedel, preserved the 1-0 victory with two spectacular saves in the final 25 minutes. Peru finished with 10 men after Ysrael Zuniga was sent off for a tackle from behind on C.J. Brown.
The win set up a quarterfinal clash with Colombia, who surprisingly fell 2-0 to Honduras earlier that evening. For Jones, the quarterfinal would provide an opportunity to become the first American since 1955 to score in four consecutive international matches. More importantly, it would give the U.S. team a chance to advance deeper in a tournament that was proving to be full of surprises.
In that quarterfinal against Colombia, the US fell 2(2)-2(1) on penalties, and Jones was held without a goal. But that didn't stop him from having arguably the best year of his national team career. He finished 2000 with playing in 17 of the 18 matches and contributed with six goals and eight assists.
