Pepi's Brace

Forward Scored Twice in Big Win Over Zwolle

Ricardo Pepi is in fine form at exactly the right time.

The 23-year-old U.S. men's national team striker scored twice for PSV Eindhoven in a commanding 6-1 Eredivisie victory over PEC Zwolle on Thursday, further strengthening his case for a prominent role at this summer's World Cup on home soil.

Pepi got PSV off to a flying start, heading home in the eighth minute from a cross by 21-year-old Esmir Bajraktarević—a Wisconsin-born Bosnia and Herzegovina international who was virtually unplayable all night. After Zwolle drew level early in the second half, Pepi restored the lead with a second header, again created by Bajraktarević, in the 57th minute. The two goals showcased Pepi's aerial ability, which has become one of his most reliable weapons at the club level.

PSV ran out comfortable winners as Bajraktarević added two goals of his own and Couhaib Driouech also got on the scoresheet. The defending Eredivisie champions, who had already secured the title, controlled the match with 67 percent possession and completed passes at a remarkable 90 percent clip.

For Pepi, the brace was another confidence-boosting performance ahead of what promises to be a pivotal summer. He finished all three of his shots on target and was a constant threat inside the box, registering seven touches in the opposition area across his 81 minutes on the pitch.

With Mauricio Pochettino set to name his World Cup roster on May 26, Pepi has done his part to make the decision difficult. Monaco's Folarin Balogun is widely expected to lead the line for the U.S., but Pepi's consistent production at PSV, for a side that plays at the highest level of Dutch football, ensures the competition for striker spots remains fierce heading into the tournament.