USMNT Serie 7 match day 8 recap: Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie find the score sheet
For the small but significant USMNT contingent in Serie A, this season has been a rollercoaster. But matchday 8 could be the start of something special. Two of the Americans in Italy scored goals and were a key part of victories for their team. Let's take a closer look at the strong performances by USMNT players in Serie A on matchday 8.
Weston McKennie, Juventus
McKennie opened the scoring in the 29th minute, as Juventus beat Lecce 2-0. The American midfielder got the slightest of touches on a Douglas Luiz free kick, enough to trickle into the back of the net. Outside of Luiz, McKennie was the highest-rated outfield player in the game. He got taken off right before the 90-minute mark and made plays all over the field, despite spending most of the game on the right side.
Christian Pulisic, AC Milan
Not to be outdone by McKennie, Pulisic scored even earlier in AC Milan’s 2-0 win over Udinese. In the sixth minute, Luka Modric played a quick free-kick to Pulisic, who snuck in behind the defense and beat the keeper one-on-one for the goal. That was just the beginning for the Hershey, Pennsylvania, native. Pulisic tied for a game-high eight touches in the box and a game-high three chances created, helping earn him Player of the Match honors. He’s taken plenty of flak this season and has struggled to secure a starting spot at times, but this game was an excellent reminder that Pulisic is still among the best attacking players in Serie A.
Yunus Musah, AC Milan
After playing all 90 minutes in Europa League on Thursday, Musah came off the bench for Milan on Sunday. He entered the game in the 73rd minute, helping Milan to secure the 2-0 win. In limited action, Musah had one defensive contribution, helping maintain the clean sheet in a win that moved Milan fourth in the table.
Gianluca Busio, Venezia
Busio didn’t play on Sunday in Venezia’s 1-0 loss to Genoa. However, he was in the matchday squad for the first time since getting hurt more than six weeks ago. That alone is a step in the right direction for the USMNT midfielder. It’s also great news for Venezia, who felt his absence and currently sit last in Serie A.
Today's best reads
USMNT Serie A match day 7 recap: Christian Pulisic quiet, Yunus Musah leads in AC Milan win
USMNT Europa League clash: what to watch during Bournemouth vs AC Milan on October 22
USMNT Europa League match day 3 recap: Tyler Adams and Bournemouth stay perfect in USMNT clash
Johnny Cardoso's latest injury puts USMNT return in jeopardy
What to know about USMNT December camp and Jamaica friendly
