McKennie Returns; Nets Spectacular Goal

 Compatriot Provides Cross For Midfielder's Scissor Finish

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Balogun's Season Disrupted

Monaco Striker Facing Shoulder Surgery

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

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

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

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

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

Remembering Pat McBride

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cardoso's Return Boosts Betis in Europa Conference League

 After a Month Off, Cardoso Plays a Half in Victory

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

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

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

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

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

CCV Man of the Match; Eyes Different Trophy This Weekend

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aaronson Scores First Goal in Over a Month

Midfielder Adds Late Tap-in to Seal Leeds Victory

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

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

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

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

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

Trio of Americans Score in Rout

Tillman, Ledezma and Pepi all score in the victory

PSV continued their dominant Eredivisie campaign with a crushing 6-1 victory over FC Twente, with Americans Malik Tillman, Ricardo Pepi and Richy Ledezma marking the occasion with a goal each

Despite an early setback when Sem Steijn scored from a controversial free kick, PSV quickly turned the match around. Noa Lang equalized within ten minutes, setting the stage for the Americans to shine. Malik Tillman took center stage in the 34th minute, scoring from a loose ball after a cross. Richard Ledezma added to the rout with a well-placed strike from a difficult angle in the 63rd minute. Ricardo Pepi, who started over Luuk de Jong, played a crucial role in creating opportunities and ultimately scored PSV's final goal with a stylish chip in the 85th minute, completing the Americans' impressive showing.

The team has now won 14 of 15 matches, scoring an incredible 56 goals in the Eredivisie—the highest tally after 15 matches since their own 1987-88 season. PSV's victory extends their lead to seven points over second-place Utrecht, underlining their dominance in the league. The win sets up PSV perfectly for their upcoming Champions League match against Stade Brest, with the team showing no signs of slowing down.

Pulisic Off Injured

Winger Sustained Calf Tear in Defeat to Atalanta

AC Milan’s American winger Christian Pulisic faces an unexpected setback after suffering a minor calf muscle tear during Friday's 2-1 defeat to Atalanta. The injury, which forced him off the field in the 38th minute, threatens to disrupt his terrific season in Italy.

Pulisic, who has been AC Milan's leading scorer this season with eight goals and six assists in just 20 matches, will likely be sidelined until January. The club confirmed on Monday that an MRI revealed a muscle tear in his right calf, ruling him out of several crucial matches.

The timing couldn't be more challenging for Milan, who are currently seventh in Serie A and competing in the Champions League. Pulisic will miss the upcoming Champions League match against Red Star Belgrade, as well as Serie A games against Genoa, Hellas Verona and Roma. His potential return is anticipated for the Jan. 3 Italian Super Cup semifinal in Saudi Arabia.

This injury marks a stark contrast to Pulisic's recent consistency. After struggling with injuries during his time at Chelsea, he has been remarkably durable since moving to Milan. In the 2023-24 season, he played 50 games in all competitions. He had only surpassed 40 matches in a season three times prior.

Fortunately, the injury is not expected to impact Pulisic's availability for the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League semifinal against Panama in March.

Gio vs Scally

Scally Shined While Reyna Came Off the Bench in Draw 

On Saturday, Borussia Dortmund and Borussia Monchengladbach battled to a 1-1 draw, with Americans Joe Scally and Gio Reyna playing contrasting roles in the encounter.

Joe Scally demonstrated a strong defensive performance for Gladbach, recording six clearances, three interceptions and two blocks, one of which was near the goalline on a Serhou Guirassy scissor kick. Scally also completed 21-of-28 of his passes. Jamie Gittens was Scally's main defensive assignment put Dortmund ahead in the 65th minute with a solo goal, continuing his impressive run of scoring in four consecutive matches. Scally allowed the winger to dribble and when Franck Honorat came over to double-team, Gittens cut inside on Honorat and scored off the crossbar. 

Kevin Stoger's penalty six minutes later leveled the score, preventing Dortmund from securing their first away win of the season.

Gio Reyna, in a limited 12-minute appearance, showed glimpses of his potential. He completed 10-of-13 passes, achieved a 100% success rate in ground duels, and created a chance. That chance came after he took a corner two minutes into extra time. After it was partially cleared, the ball came back out to Reyna on the right wing. He curled in an inviting cross for Guirassy to nod home the winner, only for the header to bounce wide.

The result leaves Dortmund fifth in the Bundesliga, 12 points behind leaders Bayern Munich. Gladbach sits 11th, with the match ending dramatically as they were reduced to 10 men after late substitute Tomas Cvancara received two quick bookings. Despite the Americans' efforts, neither Scally nor Reyna could decisively influence the match's outcome. 

Balogun Doubtful for Toulouse Match After Shoulder Setback

Striker, just back from injury, could be out in the match vs US teammate on Saturday

AS Monaco forward Folarin Balogun faces uncertain prospects for Saturday's Ligue 1 match against Toulouse, after potentially re-aggravating a shoulder injury during last Sunday's defeat at Marseille.

Coach Adi Hütter confirmed Thursday that Balogun, who recently returned from a two-month injury absence, could not complete Thursday morning's training session. The 23-year-old American international took a significant hit from Marseille defender Leonardo Balerdi during the weekend match, raising concerns about his availability.

"He couldn't finish the training session yesterday because it was painful," Hütter told reporters. "He has had treatment and worked indoors today. We'll see if he is able to play on Saturday."  Get Football News France

The injury setback comes at a critical juncture for Monaco, seeking to reclaim their position as Paris Saint-Germain's closest league challenger after the recent defeat to Marseille. Balogun has contributed to that effort, scoring three goals in seven league matches this season.

Of particular concern is Balogun's upcoming match against Arsenal in the Champions League, a return to his former club. The striker joined the English club at eight years old and was under their control until he was sold to Monaco at the beginning of last season. The potential for another extended absence looms large.

"It is always hard with a player when you feel you are back on track and then injury stops your run," Hütter acknowledged. "For sure, he is frustrated about this." Get Football News France

Balogun's national team colleague Mark McKenzie will line up for Toulouse. The center-back has been a constant presence in the side, starting every match in the league since mid-August. In those 11 matches, Toulouse has earned five clean sheets.

Monaco currently sits third in the table with 26 points, seven behind the leaders PSG. Toulouse is 10th with 18 points — 10 points clear of the bottom.