Inter&Co Stadium (Orlando) — The U.S. men’s national team has begun its journey towards the 2030 World Cup with a solid win.
In their first match since their round of 16 elimination from the 2026 World Cup by Belgium, the Stars and Stripes secured a 4-1 victory over Peru. Goals from seasoned players Malik Tillman and Sebastian, along with teenage newcomers Justin Ellis and Julian Hall, marked an encouraging start at Orlando City’s home during the first of four exhibition matches scheduled over the next week and a half.
Here are some key points following the team’s victory on Saturday.
1. Cavan Sullivan Shines…
Just two days before turning 17, Philadelphia Union’s rising star became the youngest player to represent the U.S. in over 20 years, and the second-youngest to start a match, following Mike Slivinski in 1991.
Playing on the right wing as directed by coach Mauricio Pochettino, Sullivan demonstrated he could handle the fast pace of international play. He executed quick passes and showcased the skill that led Manchester City to secure a future transfer agreement with him when he turns 18. He even earned a yellow card after a collision with veteran Peruvian keeper Pedro Gallese, which seemed questionable, as Sullivan appeared to be pushed into Gallese by his own defender.
Overall, it was a strong debut and a promising sign for a player who may become pivotal for the U.S. program in the coming years.
2. …But Other Young Players Shine Too
Sullivan wasn’t the only teen to debut for the national team on Saturday. With two-time World Cup veteran Antonee “Jedi” Robinson resting on the bench, 18-year-old Peyton Miller, who usually plays for the New England Revolution, stepped in as a left-back.
Miller also performed admirably despite being caught off-guard during Peru’s first-half equalizer. His speed was evident as he managed to attack defenders and reach the end line multiple times. Robinson replaced Miller shortly after the hour mark.
Ellis, at 19, also made a significant impact as he started in his home stadium where he plays for Orlando City. He capitalized on an opportunity and skillfully redirected Gio Reyna’s free kick past Gallese to score the opening goal within four minutes of the match. Hall, who came on as a second-half substitute, also contributed with a goal, finishing off a cross from Berhalter.
3. A New Veteran Core Is Forming
This roster features 13 uncapped players and eight teenagers, leading to a focus on new talent. However, Pochettino’s lineup wasn’t inexperienced, with veterans like Reyna, Matt Freese, Alex Freeman, Tyler Adams — who captained the team for the first time — and others who have competed at the 2026 World Cup.
These experienced players will likely play key roles in the lead-up to the 2030 tournament, alongside longtime staples like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie, who are just starting to return to the field for their clubs.
4. These Games Provide Valuable Experience
Pochettino noted he would have preferred more training time instead of the four matches during FIFA’s recently extended September/October window, which were scheduled before he signed his four-year contract with the U.S. Soccer Federation in August.
However, U.S. fans, especially those newly engaged during the impressive World Cup run, seldom enjoy such a packed schedule outside of major tournaments. They can look forward to matches against Chile, followed by a clash with Mexico in Glendale, Arizona, and wrapping up against Canada in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Fan Take: This news signifies an exciting phase for U.S. soccer, as a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers like Sullivan and Miller could reshape the team’s future. For fans, witnessing this blend could mean a revitalizing journey leading up to the 2030 World Cup, filled with hope and renewed enthusiasm for the sport.
Source: www.foxsports.com
