McBride's Goal Against Portsmouth

On This Day in 2005, Fulham Earned Its First Win in Five League Matches Thanks to an American Spark off the Bench

When Brian McBride arrived at Craven Cottage on January 31, 2004, few could have predicted the American striker's immediate impact on Fulham's fortunes. The London club had secured his signature from MLS for a reported $1.5 million (£800,000). McBride left behind his status as Columbus Crew's all-time leading scorer to test himself in the Premier League on a two-and-a-half-year contract.

The stakes were exceptionally high when McBride joined Fulham. As a 31-year-old striker with previous European experience at Preston North End, Everton and VfL Wolfsburg, expectations were tempered. Yet the American made an immediate impression, coming off the bench to score the winning goal in a 2-1 victory against Tottenham Hotspur on his debut—ironically beating fellow U.S. international Kasey Keller in goal.

McBride's first year at Fulham proved his worth, as he netted five goals in 18 appearances during the second half of the 2003-04 season. His steady scoring continued into the 2004-05 campaign, though manager Chris Coleman often deployed McBride as an impact substitute rather than a regular starter—a decision that would prove crucial on April 3rd at Craven Cottage.

The relegation battle intensified as Fulham prepared to face Portsmouth. Both sides had not won in five Premier League matches, and Fulham had failed to score in their previous four games across all competitions. The tension was palpable among the Cottagers' faithful, who had grown increasingly frustrated with Coleman's defensive 4-5-1 formation. They even chanted "4-4-2, 4-4-2" during their previous home game, a dull 0-0 draw with Charlton.

Coleman acknowledged the pressure but remained defiant about his tactical approach. "I will be changing the formation for this game. Not because of what the crowd or anyone outside the camp have been saying," he insisted before the match. "If you are not strong enough to pick the team you want and the formation you want, then you shouldn't be a manager."

The match began ominously for Fulham as Portsmouth took the lead in the 32nd minute through Lomana LuaLua, who skipped past defenders Zat Knight and Moritz Volz before unleashing a 15-yard shot that gave goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar no chance. Despite earning a penalty just before halftime when Dejan Stefanovic handled Andy Cole's cross, Steed Malbranque's spot-kick was saved by Jamie Ashdown, who also denied Luis Boa Morte's follow-up attempt.

Coleman sent his team out for the second half with renewed purpose. The breakthrough finally came on the hour mark when Cole slotted home the equalizer from the center of the penalty area. Then came McBride's moment.

Having just returned from international duty with the United States—where he had played in a World Cup qualifying loss to Mexico—McBride was introduced as a substitute for Claus Jensen in the 57th minute. The American's impact was immediately apparent, allowing Boa Morte to shift to his natural position on the left flank.

In the 81st minute, McBride capitalized on poor defending when Arjan de Zeeuw's attempted header back to his goalkeeper fell short. Ever alert, McBride pounced on the loose ball and acrobatically volleyed a 15-yard shot over the stranded Ashdown to give Fulham a precious 2-1 lead.

"He didn't start because he has just had a long flight back from America and couldn't have played the full 90 minutes," Coleman explained afterward. "But when I play with two strikers, Brian is always at the front of my mind because he works well with Andy Cole."

McBride's goal transformed the mood at Craven Cottage. Boa Morte sealed the victory in stoppage time by robbing Linvoy Primus before rounding Ashdown to make it 3-1. The win lifted Fulham above Portsmouth to 14th, opening a crucial six-point gap between themselves and the relegation zone.

After the match, a typically modest McBride deflected praise despite his match-winning contribution. "I always want to be out there on the field, but I have great respect for the coach and his decisions. Wherever he decides I'll be, I'll be. I'm not going to cause any problems. It's a team sport," the American said, who was back on the pitch minutes after the final whistle, playing with his two daughters.

The victory was a turning point for Fulham, who would ultimately secure Premier League survival comfortably. McBride finished the 2004-05 season with nine goals in all competitions before scoring 10 the following campaign. For McBride, the goal against Portsmouth was more than just a crucial win in a relegation battle—it cemented his status as a reliable performer who could deliver in the most pressurized moments, whether as a starter or from the bench.

Coleman, whose relief was palpable at the final whistle, remained cautious despite the win. "This was an important step forward, but I don't see it as breathing space for us," he said. "We need to build on this win, and I will not let my players relax." For Fulham and McBride, the journey to Premier League stability was only beginning, but the American striker had once again proven his worth at the highest level of English football.

Possible 'Dos a Cero' Soured

On This Day in 2014, the Americans Raced Out to a Two-Goal Lead Before Settling a Friendly Draw

In their last match before World Cup preparation camps officially begin next month, the United States squandered a promising two-goal lead against rival Mexico. With just over two months remaining before the World Cup in Brazil, the result provided Jurgen Klinsmann both encouraging signs and clear warning signals about his team's readiness for soccer's biggest stage.

The Americans entered the April 2 friendly with significant questions surrounding their World Cup roster. Just days earlier, Klinsmann had made a surprising coaching staff change, dismissing longtime assistant Martin Vasquez, signaling that no one's position was safe.

"Anything can happen in the next couple of months," Klinsmann had warned before the match. "We observe them now week in and week out, and we put the puzzle together [based on] what is best for us going into Brazil. So anything is possible in a short period of time."

For 45 minutes at the University of Phoenix Stadium, it appeared the Americans had all the answers. Behind Michael Bradley's masterful midfield performance, the U.S. dominated the first half and established the familiar "Dos a Cero" scoreline, which has become a rallying cry in this heated rivalry. Since 2000, seven of America's 12 victories over Mexico have come by that exact 2-0 margin, creating a psychological edge for U.S. supporters.

Bradley opened the scoring in the 15th minute, finding space at the far post on a Graham Zusi corner kick and easily slotting home from six yards out. The midfielder wasn't done, later heading on Tony Beltran's cross to Chris Wondolowski, who finished clinically to double the American lead before halftime.

The match also marked the rare appearance of the American attacking triumvirate of Clint Dempsey, Landon Donovan, and Michael Bradley. Despite 339 combined national team caps, the trio has played together just four times during Klinsmann's 2½-year tenure.

But Mexico responded forcefully after the break. Rafael Marquez began the comeback by curling away from his defender on a Marco Fabian corner kick in the 49th minute. He found space between American center backs to head past the goalkeeper. Mexico completed the rally in the 68th minute when Alan Pulido pounced on a rebound after Paul Aguilar's shot hit the post. The teams settled for a 2-2 draw.

"I think we learned a lot today," Klinsmann said afterward. "We really had it under control for the first half, but I thought it took [the players] too long to get back into the game. They have to understand a game goes 90 minutes, and we haven't gotten to those 90 minutes."

The match also provided a glimpse at the potential future of U.S. Soccer, as 18-year-old Julian Green made his senior team debut. The German-American Bayern Munich prospect, who just completed his one-time switch to represent the United States last week, showed flashes of potential in limited minutes.

"You saw in some moments what this kid is capable of doing," Klinsmann said of Green. "You understand within 10 minutes if he's a good player or not. Julian is a very good player."

With just weeks remaining before Klinsmann must submit his final 23-man roster for Brazil, the team's mixed performance against Mexico highlighted its potential and vulnerabilities. Many MLS-based players used the match as their final audition, and a record number of domestic league players could make the World Cup squad.

"I think we have maybe 55, 60 [minutes] maximum on that level," Klinsmann noted about his team's endurance. "It's not enough. So that means we have a lot of homework to do."

The Americans will begin their pre-World Cup training camp next month, where they'll continue preparing for a challenging group that includes Ghana, Portugal, and Germany. With undeniable talent but lingering questions about consistency and defensive stability, the road to Brazil remains a work in progress for this team.

Altidore's First Hat-Trick

On This Day in 2009, the 19-Year-Old "Came of Age" in a World Cup Qualifying Victory over Trinidad and Tobago

At just 19 years old, Jozy Altidore had become the name on every American soccer fan's lips. Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 175 pounds, the young striker possesses the rare combination of size, speed, and technical ability that has long eluded U.S. Soccer. His journey from the youth ranks of the New York Red Bulls to a record $10 million transfer to Spain's Villarreal marked him as American soccer's next great hope, even as his European club career has experienced growing pains.

"He's not happy about the fact that he isn't playing, but you get the sense that he realizes he has to work harder and improve," U.S. coach Bob Bradley noted about Altidore's situation at Xerez. In this second-division Spanish club, he had yet to play a single minute since being loaned there in January 2009.

Despite these club struggles, Altidore's international career took a dramatic turn during a four-day span that transformed his reputation and the U.S. Men's National Team's World Cup qualifying campaign. First came his crucial 77th-minute header against El Salvador that sparked an improbable comeback in a hostile environment.

The Americans had entered that match as heavy favorites but found themselves in a nightmare scenario, trailing 2-0 after 72 minutes at the intimidating Estadio Cuscatlán. Altidore's powerful header from Frankie Hejduk's cross provided a lifeline and set the stage for Hejduk's equalizer minutes later, salvaging a vital point in the 2-2 draw.

"To come back with 30 minutes left and get a point is a positive," goalkeeper Brad Guzan said after that match. "It shows just how good this team is."

If the El Salvador comeback demonstrated the team's resilience, the subsequent 3-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago on April 1 at Nashville's LP Field showcased its attacking potential—with Altidore firmly at the center. Before a Tennessee-record soccer crowd of 27,959, the teenage striker delivered a historic performance that announced his arrival on the international stage.

The revamped American lineup featured Altidore paired with Brian Ching up front, with Landon Donovan positioned wide left and Clint Dempsey on the right. The tactical adjustment paid immediate dividends in the 13th minute when Donovan controlled a ball with his chest and delivered a pinpoint cross into the penalty area. Altidore, displaying the instincts of a natural goalscorer, broke free of defender Aklie Edwards and beat goalkeeper Clayton Ince for the opening goal.

His second strike in the 71st minute showcased his maturing technical skills. After an excellent combination play involving Michael Bradley, DaMarcus Beasley, and Donovan, Altidore received the ball in the box, expertly faked Trinidad's stand-in captain Dennis Lawrence, and calmly slotted a low shot inside the far post.

The historic hat trick was completed just before the final whistle in the 89th minute. Michael Bradley played the ball into the box to Donovan, who unselfishly laid it back to Altidore. His 20-yard shot slipped under the goalkeeper's hands, cementing his place in the record books as the youngest American to score an international hat trick.

"It's pretty cool," Altidore said of his achievement. "Most important is we came out, and the guys rebounded from the El Salvador game, and we made a statement—made a statement we are one of the teams to be reckoned with in CONCACAF."

The comprehensive victory starkly contrasted the struggle in El Salvador just days earlier. With Tim Howard returning from suspension, the American backline regained its organization and composure. Trinidad and Tobago, playing without suspended captain Dwight Yorke, managed just one shot on goal throughout the match.

"We just weren't very good tonight," admitted Soca Warriors captain Dennis Lawrence. "When you come to the U.S., and you don't perform up to your capabilities, that's the result you're going to get."

All three goals came off of assists from Landon Donovan, and the victory highlighted a potential dynamic partnership between America's all-time leading scorer and its emerging star. While Donovan needed 107 appearances to reach his 37 goals, Altidore has already netted six times in just nine international appearances.

"I'm finally understanding what's needed to be successful," reflected Altidore, who suddenly found himself at the forefront of American soccer's future.

The win solidified the United States' position in the final round of CONCACAF qualifying. With seven points from three matches, the United States is ahead of Costa Rica (six points), Honduras (four), and Mexico (three). With seven games remaining, the top three nations will qualify directly for South Africa 2010.

For Altidore and the American team, Trinidad's victory represented more than just three points—a statement of intent. In a qualification process where nothing comes easily, the emergence of a clinical finisher addressed a longstanding need for a U.S. team with growing World Cup ambitions.

"He's a player that we've known for a while," Bob Bradley said. "He's going to be a big part of our team going forward. But things need to be earned. Things need to come at the right time."

For Jozy Altidore and the United States, that time appeared to be now.

Shea's Curling Free-Kick

On This Day in 2015, a Stunning Free-Kick Cancelled Out by Another Late Goal in a Draw in Europe

Less than a week after a disappointing 3-2 loss to Denmark—a match that painfully exposed the United States Men's National Soccer Team's vulnerability in late-game situations—the national team sought redemption on European soil. The Denmark match had become the latest chapter in a troubling narrative, with the Americans conceding late goals at an alarming rate since the 2014 World Cup.

Before the Denmark defeat, the U.S. had struggled through inconsistent performances in the months following their Round of 16 exit in Brazil. Coach Jurgen Klinsmann was still wrestling with lineup challenges, rotating players in these European friendlies, and seeking to build a more resilient team capable of maintaining leads against quality international opposition.

The March 31 match against Switzerland at Stadion Letzigrund in Zurich was more than just another friendly. It represented an opportunity for the U.S. team to demonstrate progress in addressing their late-game collapses. With Switzerland having qualified for the 2014 World Cup and advanced to the knockout stage, too, the Americans hoped to prove they could compete with established European sides for a full 90 minutes. However, what unfolded on that spring night in Zurich would add another frustrating chapter to an increasingly concerning pattern.

The match unfolded against a backdrop of experimentation and transition. Klinsmann had been introducing new faces to the squad, including Stanford forward Jordan Morris, who replaced the injured Aron Johannsson. Another newcomer, Mexican-American goalkeeper William Yarbrough, would make his international debut as a second-half substitute.

The evening began with tactical discipline from both sides. The U.S. team created better chances in the first half, with Alejandro Bedoya repeatedly exploiting the Swiss left flank. Twice, Bedoya delivered inviting crosses from the right, but Gyasi Zardes blazed a left-foot volley high and wide in the 15th minute. The Nantes winger cut the ball back from the byline, and Michael Bradley fired well over in the 26th minute.

Brek Shea, playing in an unfamiliar left-back position, provided the magic moment just before halftime. After calling Jozy Altidore off the free kick, Shea confidently stepped up and curled a spectacular left-footed strike into the upper corner beyond Swiss goalkeeper Roman Buerki in the 45th minute. It marked Shea's fourth international goal and the first free-kick goal for the Americans since August 2013.

"I went up to it, and I've been working on it lately," Shea reflected. "I called Jozy off of it and said it was for a left-footer, and he let me take it, and I scored."

The halftime lead was the ninth straight match in which the Americans had scored in the first half. However, the recurring challenge was maintaining that advantage after the break.

The match's decisive moment came in the 68th minute, which had nothing to do with skillful play. Veteran forward Jozy Altidore, who had been enjoying strong recent performances for the national team, committed a rash foul on Swiss defender Francois Moubandje from behind. What followed proved catastrophic for the American side. Altidore directed verbal abuse at Italian referee Luca Banti, who immediately produced a red card, reducing the U.S. to ten men for the final twenty-two minutes.

Swiss pressure mounted relentlessly after the dismissal. In the 79th minute, the Americans narrowly escaped when defender John Brooks's attempted clearance rolled just wide of his own goal. Five minutes earlier, Swiss substitute Pajtim Kasami had headed over an open goal from close range.

The inevitable equalizer came in the 80th minute. Following a short corner kick, Granit Xhaka crossed into the penalty area, where defenders Timmy Chandler and Alfredo Morales both attempted to head the ball clear. Their collision left the ball bouncing freely in front of goal, and substitute Valentin Stocker pounced, poking home from just two yards out past the debuting Yarbrough.

Klinsmann saw the match as another painful lesson for his developing squad. "Obviously, we are disappointed with another late goal," he commented. "But I think the team showed a lot of character after going down to ten men. We need to learn how to close out these games."

The 1-1 draw extended a troubling pattern for the American side. In their last 13 matches, they conceded 13 goals from the 80th minute onward. Since the previous June, the U.S. had been outscored by a staggering 12-1 margin in the second half of matches.

It wouldn't be the Americans' last European test in the coming months. The team was scheduled to face Mexico in San Antonio on April 15 before returning to Europe for challenging away fixtures against the Netherlands in Amsterdam on June 5 and World Cup champions Germany in Cologne on June 10.

Meanwhile, off the pitch, thirteen U.S. Senators, including Wisconsin Republican Ron Johnson, Illinois Democrat Richard Durbin, and Arizona Republican John McCain, sent a letter to FIFA president Sepp Blatter the day after the Switzerland match. The lawmakers urged FIFA to consider taking the 2018 World Cup out of Russia because of what they called that country's "ongoing violations of the territorial integrity of Ukraine," suggesting that allowing Russia to host would "inappropriately bolster the prestige" of President Vladimir Putin's regime.

For now, though, Klinsmann and his squad faced the more immediate challenge of solving their late-game defensive frailties before facing their arch-rivals Mexico. Brek Shea summed up after the Switzerland draw: "Obviously, last game we were a bit disappointed, but they put in a good shift. And then this game, we went up and then getting a red card, it's hard, but the boys did well to grind out a result."

Cardoso's Equalizer

The American Scored in Real Betis' Derby Triumph

In a pulsating Sevilla derby with the Estadio Benito Villamarin buzzing excitedly, Johnny Cardoso emerged as one of the key protagonists in Real Betis' thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over their fierce rivals. Making a triumphant return from injury, Cardoso's equalizing goal demonstrated his technical prowess and underscored his growing importance to Manuel Pellegrini's Champions League-chasing side.

The New Jersey-born midfielder showed perfect timing and technique when he volleyed home a sublime cross from Youssouf Sabaly midway through the first half. The build-up was a testament to Betis' patient approach, with Pablo Fornals releasing Sabaly down the flank with an incisive pass. Rather than rushing his delivery, Sabaly measured his approach, taking down his defender before floating an inviting ball that Cardoso met with conviction, sending it powerfully into the net.

This vital equalizer came after Sevilla had taken an early lead through Ruben Vargas, who had hammered home following excellent work from Dodi Lukebakio. Cardoso's goal shifted momentum firmly in Betis' favor, setting the stage for Cucho Hernandez to net the winner before half-time following a brilliant combination between Jesus Rodriguez and former Sevilla playmaker Isco.

The goal marked Cardoso's third of the season, following previous strikes against giants Real Madrid and HJK Helsinki in the UEFA Conference League. His performance was significant after injury issues had kept him sidelined recently, including limiting his participation with the US during the CONCACAF Nations League. With this sixth consecutive La Liga victory, Betis are now firmly in contention for Champions League qualification, sitting just behind fifth-placed Villarreal.

Duo Returns From Injury

Tillman and Balogun Each Subbed On For Their Respective Clubs This Weekend

Malik Tillman made a significant step in his recovery journey this weekend, featuring for PSV Eindhoven in their match against Ajax on Sunday. The American midfielder played the entire second half, marking an earlier-than-anticipated return from a serious ankle ligament injury sustained last December. Initially, there were concerns that Tillman might miss the remainder of the season, but his comeback puts him in contention for Mauricio Pochettino's USMNT Gold Cup squad this summer.

Despite Tillman's return bringing positive news for PSV, the match resulted in a disappointing outcome for the reigning Dutch champions, who fell nine points behind league leaders Ajax in the Eredivisie title race, making their chances of retaining the championship increasingly unlikely.

Meanwhile, Folarin Balogun also marked his return to action, making his first league appearance for Monaco since undergoing shoulder surgery in December. The forward came off the bench in the 76th minute during Monaco's 2-1 victory over OGC Nice on Saturday. Balogun recorded nine touches and one off-target shot attempt during his brief cameo.

Balogun's return is particularly significant for the USMNT, as the striker has missed every camp under new manager Mauricio Pochettino due to injury. This summer will mark his first opportunity to work with the Argentine coach ahead of both the June international window and the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

Aaronson's First-Minute Goal

Midfielder Scored After 35 Seconds in Leeds' Draw With Swansea City

Brenden Aaronson made a statement performance for Leeds United on Saturday, scoring just 35 seconds into their 2-2 Championship draw with Swansea City at Elland Road. The 24-year-old's early strike was pivotal for both club and player, particularly after his surprising omission from Mauricio Pochettino's recent USMNT squad for the Nations League Finals.

Aaronson capitalized on chaos in the Swansea box after Jayden Bogle's dangerous cross from the right flank. When Joel Piroe saw two close-range attempts blocked, the ball fell perfectly for Aaronson, who fired home from inside the six-yard box to give Leeds the early advantage.

The goal marked Aaronson's ninth of the season across 39 appearances in a physically demanding Championship campaign. Despite his productive output, questions persist about his long-term future at Elland Road, with recent reports suggesting Leeds may consider offers for the American this summer regardless of whether they secure promotion.

Leeds currently sit second in the Championship table, two points behind leaders Sheffield United and level on points with third-placed Burnley. Manager Daniel Farke remains confident: "I'm 100 percent convinced we will play in the Premier League next season."

Though Farke has described Aaronson as "outstanding" this season, concerns about his physical attributes for Premier League football reportedly exist behind the scenes. Having struggled during Leeds' relegation season in 2022-23, the club may capitalize on his improved form to help fund new signings better suited to top-flight competition.

With two years remaining on his contract, Leeds would likely demand a substantial fee for Aaronson, who has attracted domestic and international interest. His extensive playing time this season - over 3,400 minutes across all competitions - suggests he has been valuable to Leeds' promotion push, even as questions about his Premier League suitability persist.

The late equalizer from Swansea's Zan Vipotnik deep in stoppage time denied Leeds a crucial victory, keeping the promotion race tight with just weeks remaining in the Championship season.

Sargent's Late Winner

The Striker Picked Up Where He Left Off in the Championship by Scoring Lone Goal in Norwich Victory

Josh Sargent delivered a dramatic stoppage-time winner for Norwich City, securing a crucial 1-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion at Carrow Road that maintained the Canaries' slim Championship playoff hopes.

The American international showcased his composure in the second minute of added time when West Brom lost possession in midfield. Sargent seized the opportunity, racing down the right flank before holding off defender Kyle Bartley and coolly slotting past goalkeeper Joe Wildsmith for his 13th goal of an impressive campaign.

Norwich goalkeeper Angus Gunn preserved the victory with a spectacular save to deny Bartley's header in the final moments, with substitute Ruairi McConville completing the defensive heroics by clearing a follow-up attempt off the goal line.

The winner represents Sargent's 18th goal contribution in just 25 Championship matches this season, continuing his excellent form despite recently clarifying comments about his future that had concerned Norwich supporters. During the international break, an interview in The Guardian suggested he might be considering a summer departure, but Sargent has since emphasized his happiness at Carrow Road.

"I'm pretty sure in the first half of that interview I said, 'I have a contract here at Norwich.' I'm very happy. My family's very happy here," Sargent explained after the match. "It was in no way saying that I'm definitely gone at the end of the season."

Norwich manager Johannes Hoff Thorup praised his team's performance: "We have been on the wrong end of the result in quite a few 50/50 games this season, so it was good to be on the right side this time."

The victory moved Norwich to 10th in the Championship table, just five points behind sixth-placed West Brom, as the season enters its final stages.

Despite his club success, Sargent faces uncertainty regarding his international future. He struggled to make an impact during the recent CONCACAF Nations League semifinals against Panama and didn't feature in the third-place match. The American striker hasn't scored for his national team since November 2019, potentially complicating his prospects with the 2026 World Cup approaching.

American Duel in the FA Cup

Richards Triumphs as Crystal Palace Outshines Fulham in FA Cup Quarterfinal

In a compelling FA Cup quarterfinal at Craven Cottage, USMNT teammates Chris Richards and Antonee Robinson found themselves on opposite sides as Crystal Palace secured an emphatic 3-0 victory over Fulham to book their place in the semifinals at Wembley Stadium.

The American defenders battled throughout a match in which Eberechi Eze started it with a stunning strike before setting up Ismaila Sarr's header. Eddie Nketiah later sealed the victory with a clinical finish through Bernd Leno's legs.

Richards, who played the full 90 minutes at center back for Palace, was instrumental in the visitors' defensive solidity. The 25-year-old American recorded impressive statistics with nine clearances, six-headed clearances and two interceptions. His commanding aerial presence helped nullify Fulham's attacking threats as Palace secured a clean sheet.

"We really aspire to make history here at Palace," Richards had said before the match, and the defender's performance backed up those ambitions as Palace moved within two games of their first-ever major trophy.

Robinson's afternoon was disappointing despite completing 80% of his passes and winning 67% of his aerial duels. The Fulham left-back, who played 71 minutes, created one chance and had one shot on target but couldn't prevent his side's elimination.

After a cagey opening in which Fulham started brightly, Palace grew into the game. Jefferson Lerma hit the crossbar before Eze's breakthrough. The result continues Palace's remarkable form under Oliver Glasner, with the Eagles heading to Wembley on either April 26 or April 27 for the semifinals.

For Richards, who admitted pre-match that winning the FA Cup "would probably be the biggest thing I've done so far," the dream of lifting the 154-year-old trophy remains alive. At the same time, Robinson and Fulham must refocus on their Premier League European qualification push.

McKennie and Weah's New Manager

American Duo Adapt to New Roles in Tudor's Juventus Debut

In a significant turning point for Juventus, American internationals Weston McKennie and Timothy Weah played their roles in the Bianconeri's 1-0 victory over Genoa at the Allianz Stadium. The match marked Igor Tudor's debut as head coach following Thiago Motta's dismissal after just 42 games.

McKennie, a favorite under Motta, demonstrated his versatility by adapting to Tudor's new 3-4-2-1 formation. The 26-year-old Texan was deployed as a left wing-back and played the full 90 minutes, recording impressive statistics with 84% pass accuracy and winning 6-of-11 ground duels. His defensive contributions included four successful tackles as he effectively stifled Genoa's attacks from his flank.

Before the match, McKennie expressed optimism about the coaching change, telling DAZN: "Tudor brought experience too, because he knows full well what Juventus is like as a club, because he played here and was also assistant manager under Pirlo. He knows everything about this club. I am happy, the team is happy, and we are ready."

Weah, meanwhile, came off the bench in the 82nd minute, operating as a right wing-back with greater offensive responsibilities than McKennie. Despite limited time on the pitch, the American made an impact with perfect passing accuracy and nearly added a second goal with a powerful effort from inside the box that was saved by Genoa goalkeeper Nicola Leali.

The victory was secured by Kenan Yildiz's first-half goal after a throw-in facilitated by Tudor, who quickly gathered the ball on the sideline and tossed it to Teun Koopmeiners. The win helped Juventus remain in fifth place, just one point behind Bologna in the race for Champions League qualification.

For both Americans, this match represented an opportunity to put behind them the disappointment of the recent CONCACAF Nations League Finals. As Tudor begins his tenure at Juventus, McKennie and Weah's adaptability may prove vital to their continued roles with the Italian giants.