USA Youth Secure Victories Over Peru and Chile Ahead of Mexico Clash

The United States men's national team opened the international break with a 4-1 win against Peru and a 4-2 victory over Chile.

The United States men's national team secured two victories to open the September/October international window, defeating Peru 4-1 and Chile 4-2. Under returning coach Mauricio Pochettino, no American players over the age of 30 featured in either match. Mathis Albert became the youngest-ever goalscorer for the U.S. men's team after coming off the bench this week, while 17-year-old Cavan Sullivan, 18-year-old Julian Hall, and 19-year-old Justin Ellis earned starts. Despite the two wins, the U.S. allowed an expected goals against (xGA) total of 1.92, and Chile struck the woodwork twice during their meeting.

Mexico recorded two consecutive 1-1 draws against Colombia and Peru under new head coach Rafael Marquez. Against Colombia, 17-year-old Gilberto Mora of Tijuana scored his first international goal to secure the result. Marquez utilized a veteran-heavy roster featuring only three teenagers, compared to the eight teenagers called up by the U.S. squad. Through two matches, Mexico maintained a 0.93 xGA while producing an expected goals (xG) tally of 1.62.

Pochettino’s 28-man roster included 13 players who entered the break without a senior international appearance. In contrast, Marquez retained a core of players from the 2026 World Cup, though seven members of the starting XI against Peru were not involved in that tournament. The two rivals are scheduled to meet in Phoenix this Saturday. Following that clash, the U.S. will face Canada on Oct. 6, while Canada is set to play Peru on Oct. 3.