Reyna Finally Scores; Sets American Record

Midfielder Breaks 19-Month Goal Drought to Set American Record in Bundesliga

After an agonizing 19-month goal-scoring drought, Gio Reyna spectacularly returned to form during Borussia Dortmund's 1-1 draw with Hoffenheim on Sunday. The 22-year-old American midfielder's goal marked a personal triumph and set a new record for Americans in Europe.

Reyna's journey back to scoring has been anything but smooth. Plagued by persistent injuries that limited his playing time, most recently a groin strain, he had become something of a forgotten talent at Dortmund. His last club goal came on May 13, 2023, in a 5-2 win over Gladbach, making Sunday's strike a crucial moment of redemption.

The goal itself was a testament to Reyna's perseverance. After Jamie Gittens' cross was initially cleared, Reyna seized an opportunity near the penalty area. With quick reflexes and powerful technique, he unleashed a shot off a couple of bounces that found the right corner, silencing doubts about his ability to perform at the highest level, which has been questioned by some in the media.

Beyond the immediate excitement of scoring, Reyna achieved a significant milestone. He became the highest-scoring USMNT player under 23 in Europe's top five leagues this century, surpassing Christian Pulisic's previous record of 13 league goals, per Opta. With 14 Bundesliga goals, Reyna has reaffirmed his potential as a top-tier footballer.

The goal comes after a tumultuous period for the young star. A loan spell at Nottingham Forest yielded minimal playing time, and injuries consistently interrupted his progress. This season alone, a groin strain kept him sidelined from September to November. However, recent weeks have shown a resurgence, with Reyna featuring in both Bundesliga and Champions League matches.

Dortmund's head coach Nuri Sahin has been supportive, noting Reyna's determination. "Gio can become important for us if he remains fit," Sahin said, highlighting the player's potential to contribute to the team's success. [Despite more injuries], he's managed to keep at it, train well and present himself positively. I'm glad he scored today. [The recent loan to the EPL] helped him see the importance of getting playing time here at Dortmund." Bundesliga News

Reyna's performance is particularly encouraging for the U.S. Men's National Team. As preparations intensify for the 2026 World Cup and a fourth Nations League Finals on the horizon in March 2025, the team needs Reyna at his peak over the next year and a half.

Robinson Shines as Fulham Secures Dramatic Draw at Anfield

 Fullback became the first American to have two assists in a Premier League match since 1993

In a thrilling Premier League encounter, Fulham's Antonee Robinson delivered a standout performance that nearly secured a historic victory against Liverpool on Saturday. The 27-year-old United States international played a pivotal role in Fulham's 2-2 draw, showcasing why he's becoming one of the most exciting full-backs in the Premier League.

Robinson's impact was immediate and decisive. He provided two crucial assists that put Fulham in a commanding position, becoming the first USMNT player to register multiple assists in a single Premier League match since Roy Wegerle in August 1993, per Opta. His first key contribution came when he set up Andreas Pereira's opening goal, giving Fulham a well-deserved lead at halftime.

The American defender's second assist was equally impressive. With a perfectly weighted pass, Robinson found Rodrigo Muniz, putting Fulham 2-1 up and seemingly on course for a memorable away victory. Robinson started the move with a one-touch pass and once he realized Trent Alexander-Arnold wasn't going to run with him, the fullback bursted up the field. Alex Iwobi released Robinson after his 60-yard run, leading to the assist. Manager Marco Silva praised for Robinson's performance, describing it as "brilliant" and "unbelievable."

"It's really difficult to find one moment where he wasn't at a really high level," Silva commented. Fulhamfc.com The manager highlighted Robinson's bravery in dealing with Liverpool's attacking threats, particularly the challenge of marking Mohamed Salah. Robinson himself acknowledged the difficulty of the task, admitting he felt Salah had his number the first half but grew more confident as the game progressed.

"They piled the pressure on and were really positive, They brought Jota on. I felt like Salah was getting the better of me in the first half, I was on a booking but I felt more myself in the second half," Robinson said. BBC.com

This performance is part of a remarkable season for Robinson, who has now assisted 11 Premier League goals since the start of last season – the most of any defender in the competition. His growth has been notable, with Silva pointing out his improved decision-making and defensive positioning.

Despite the disappointing late equalizer from Diogo Jota, which denied Fulham all three points, there were plenty of positives to take from the match. The team showed resilience and tactical maturity, holding their own against Liverpool for long periods, especially after the home side was reduced to 10 men. Robinson's performance epitomizes Fulham's progress this season. No longer content to just survive in the Premier League, the team is now competitive against top-tier opponents and as the left-back noted, this is the difference from previous seasons.

"We've been managing to pick up results against top teams, that's the difference from last year. We've got injuries. It's all about getting everyone back and staying consistent," Robinson said. BBC.com

With Southampton next up, Robinson and Fulham will look to continue their impressive form, riding the confidence from their spirited display at Anfield.

Musah Sidelined with Muscle Injury

 Midfielder missed goalless draw with Genoa

Yunus Musah's recent muscle injury has dealt a blow to AC Milan's tactical plans. He missed the draw against Genoa over the weekend and possibly the upcoming match against Verona on Friday. The 22-year-old American international, a key figure in Paulo Fonseca's lineup, suffered the setback during training, creating an unexpected challenge for the Rossoneri.

Musah has been instrumental in Milan's recent performances, particularly in his role as a right wingback and at right midfield. The timing couldn't be more inopportune for Milan. Already struggling with a mixed Serie A campaign that has them sitting eighth in the table, the team is now dealing with multiple injury concerns. Christian Pulisic is also sidelined with a calf muscle tear, leaving Milan without both of their U.S. National Team players.

Musah is expected to undergo further medical tests to determine the full extent of his injury. The potential absence from the Verona match could prove significant for a team looking to climb the Serie A standings.

Cardoso Solid in Betis' Gritty Triumph

 Midfielder Key as 10-Men Betis Hold On Against Villareal

In a remarkable display of resilience, Real Betis secured a crucial 2-1 away victory against Villarreal at the Estadio de la Ceramica on Sunday, with Johnny Cardoso playing a pivotal role in the team's hard-fought success. The American midfielder demonstrated his growing importance to Manuel Pellegrini's side with an impressive all-around performance.

Cardoso's statistics tell a story of defensive and tactical intelligence. His defensive contributions were instrumental in Betis maintaining their lead after Chimy Avila's red card left the team with ten men. With six clearances, five interceptions, and 11 recoveries, Cardoso was a defensive linchpin from midfield throughout the match. The midfielder also completed 35-of-39 passes with Villareal in possession most of the match.

The game unfolded dramatically, with Vitor Roque opening the scoring before Giovani Lo Celso extended Betis' lead with a sublime free-kick. Although Villarreal pulled one back through Alex Baena, Betis held firm, with Cardoso playing a crucial role in maintaining defensive stability.

Pellegrini's decision to start Cardoso, who appears to be near full fitness after logging 135 minutes this week, paid immediate dividends. After beating CS Pertoclub midweek, this victory marked Betis' first win in six La Liga matches.

CCV and Trusty Win Domestic Cup

 Carter-Vickers and Trusty Play Part in Celtic's Dramatic Cup Final Victory

In a pulsating Premier Sports Cup final against Rangers, Celtic's American defensive duo Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty played roles in their team's penalty shootout triumph.

"It's a great feeling," Carter-Vickers told Sky Sports. "It was the first trophy available this season, so we wanted to win. We thought our start of the season deserved it. Anytime you win a trophy, it's a great feeling."

Carter-Vickers demonstrated solid endurance, playing the full 120 minutes of an intense Glasgow Derby. His presence was key in maintaining Celtic's stability throughout the grueling encounter. Trusty, meanwhile, was substituted at halftime in a tactical move by Rodgers, who sought to inject more defensive composure into the game.

The manager's decision to bring on Liam Scales for Trusty at the break proved pivotal. Rodgers noted the need to improve the team's build-up play and "clean up" the game, highlighting the tactical flexibility of Celtic's defensive options.

The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, characterized by six goals, 11 bookings, and 12 substitutions before ultimately being decided by penalties. Celtic's victory was sealed when Daizen Maeda coolly converted the winning spot-kick, sending the Celtic faithful into jubilation.

"It was a very tough game. Fair play to the Rangers," Carter-Vickers said. "I thought they started well, first half especially. But I thought in the second half, we grew into the game and started to have a few more chances. I mean, winning on penalties — if you could definitely win on penalties, that's the way you would pick to win, so at the end of the day, it was great for us." Sky Sports

American Trio Collide in Serie A

 McKennie, Weah and Busio All Start in Dramatic Draw

In a pulsating Serie A encounter, Americans Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, and Gianluca Busio found themselves at the heart of a dramatic match between Juventus and Venezia that ended in a 2-2 draw.

McKennie delivered a solid performance, completing 80% of his passes and winning all four of his ground duels. His defensive work was particularly impressive, with three recoveries and two interceptions showcasing his box-to-box capabilities.

Weah, subbed off after 66 minutes, maintained an 85% pass accuracy and made three touches in the opposition box. Though not directly involved in the scoring, he continued to be a presence in Juventus' attack.

Busio, representing the struggling Venezia, put in a determined shift with an 83% pass completion rate and six passes into the final third.

The match itself was a rollercoaster, with Juventus salvaging a point through Dusan Vlahovic's 95th-minute penalty after Venezia had stunned the home crowd by taking a 2-1 lead. The result epitomized Juventus' challenging season, marking their 10th draw in 16 games.

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.