CINCINNATI (Sept. 10, 2024) – The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) secured a 1-1 draw against New Zealand in an international friendly at TQL Stadium, ending their three-game losing streak. Despite controlling much of the game, a late goal from New Zealand prevented the USA from claiming victory. Christian Pulisic made history with his 69th-minute goal, moving into fifth place on the USMNT’s all-time scoring list, but a deflected equalizer in the 88th minute left the match tied.
The USA dominated possession, holding over 66% of the ball and outshooting New Zealand 17-8. Interim coach Mikey Varas made six changes to the starting lineup following the team’s 2-1 defeat to Canada, including the debut of right-back Marlon Fossey and the addition of Haji Wright and Ricardo Pepi to the attack. The Americans controlled the early tempo, and Pepi appeared to give them the lead in the 19th minute, but his goal was disallowed due to a foul in the buildup. Despite several chances from Wright, Pepi, and Yunus Musah, the U.S. entered halftime scoreless.
In the second half, Luca de la Torre came on for Musah, and Christian Pulisic entered the game in the 56th minute. Pulisic made an immediate impact, scoring in the 69th minute after a series of passes involving Aidan Morris, Fossey, De la Torre, and Ricardo Pepi. The goal was Pulisic’s 31st for the USMNT, moving him past Brian McBride on the all-time scoring list. Pulisic now sits in fifth place, just three goals behind Eric Wynalda.
Despite continuing to control the game, the USA couldn’t find a second goal. In the 88th minute, a long ball from New Zealand’s defense led to a fortunate deflection off U.S. defender Caleb Wiley, allowing New Zealand’s Alex Waine to score the equalizer.
This match marked the end of Mikey Varas’ tenure as interim coach, as veteran Argentine manager Mauricio Pochettino was confirmed as the new USMNT head coach before the game. Pochettino is set to make his debut on October 12 in a friendly against Panama at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas. His first major test will follow on October 15, when the U.S. takes on Mexico in Guadalajara’s Estadio Akron. This will be the first away friendly against Mexico since the USA’s 1-0 victory at Estadio Azteca in 2012.
The result leaves the USMNT with a 2W-0L-2D record against New Zealand, and although the win eluded them, the team’s performance reflected a marked improvement from their recent defeats. Pulisic’s milestone and the confirmation of Pochettino’s appointment signal the beginning of a promising new chapter for the U.S. Men’s National Team.
