Midfielder Unleashed a Rope to Open the Scoring in the Champions League
Weston McKennie continues to shine for Juventus, scoring a crucial goal in their 2-1 Champions League playoff victory against PSV Eindhoven. The USMNT midfielder broke the deadlock in the 34th minute with a powerful strike into the top right corner from inside the penalty area, following a scrambled sequence. While McKennie modestly claimed his 2020 goal against Barcelona was better, his latest effort proved decisive in securing a European win.
The goal marks McKennie's third Champions League strike this season, all coming with his right foot and all in victories, including previous goals against Manchester City and PSV in the group stage. His seventh career Champions League goal puts him in elite company among CONCACAF players, trailing only Javier Hernández (14), Christian Pulisic (12), Dwight Yorke (11), and Jonathan David (9) in the competition's history.
Juventus head coach Thiago Motta has praised McKennie's versatility and team-first attitude. He highlighted the American's ability to excel in multiple positions. "Weston is special," Motta said. He has played fullback, holding midfielder, attacking midfielder, winger. He's a top-level player." This adaptability has made McKennie nearly indispensable to the team, with Motta admitting it's "difficult to put him on the bench."
The 26-year-old's excellent form is also paying off beyond the pitch. Last August, he signed an extension through 2026, but reports suggest Juventus plans to offer him a new deal to keep him at the club until 2028. With five goals in 28 appearances this season and increasingly influential performances, McKennie has established himself as a key figure in Juventus's pursuit of Champions League success.
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