USMNT vs Mexico: Player ratings- Horvath saves America
By Nathan Dunn
The USMNT were crowned the inaugural champions of the CONCACAF Nations League with a gutsy 3-2 win against Mexico in 120 minutes. Here are the player ratings from Sunday’s win.
The United States Men’s National Team put in a special performance in an instant-classic matchup against Mexico. It the first trophy for the USMNT since their 2017 Gold Cup triumph.
Head coach Gregg Berhalter opted for some changes after their 1-0 win against Honduras on Thursday. Among the changes was transitioning to a different system that included Tim Ream, DeAndre Yedlin and Kellyn Acosta entering the starting XI.
Things got off to a worse-possible start inside the first two minutes when Mark McKenzie gave the ball away inside his own penalty box and was punished with a ruthless finish from Joe Corona. The USMNT responded well and found the equalizer through Gio Reyna, pouncing on the rebound off the post.
Mexico pulled back in front on 79 minutes with a goal from Diego Lainez. Three minutes later, Weston McKennie leveled it with a header from a corner and sending the match to extra time.
After winning a penalty with the help of VAR, Christian Pulisic delivered with a sensational penalty to the top corner to put the US up 3-2 in the 114th minute. This match was far from over, as Mexico won a penalty in the stoppage time with VAR’s help, but Andres Guadrado’s effort was denied by Ethan Horvath.
Here are the player ratings from Sunday’s dramatic 3-2 win.
Starting XI
Zack Steffen- 7
Unfortunate to come off in injured, but came up with a massive save. Couldn’t do anything on the first goal. Would like to see him take fewer risks with the ball at his feet.
Sergiño Dest- 5
Put into an offensive position, but still wasn’t very effective. Also had some very sloppy touches.
Tim Ream- 6
Managed to do alright for his standards. Weathered the storm until Lainez blew past him in the second half. Should never be near another USMNT match squad again.
John Brooks- 6
Despite an early booking, Brooks did enough to lead a center back.
Mark McKenzie- 5
Two horrendous giveaways, one of which led to Mexico’s first goal in the opening 90 seconds. To be fair, he put the worst behind him mostly and defended well in a couple of dicey situations. Was the victim of a harsh penalty call against him in extra time.
DeAndre Yedlin- 6
Showed a great work ethic. Would have preferred to see him do more in the attack.
Kellyn Acosta- 6
A decent showing. Alright in the midfield and provided an upgrade at wing-back.
Weston McKennie- 8
A monster in the midfield. Won countless headers, especially from set pieces. Best field player for the US.
Christian Pulisic- 7
Tough game, but found ways to be dangerous and won the penalty. Would have liked him to see more of the ball. Most importantly, he delivered at the biggest of moments from the penalty spot.
Giovanni Reyna- 7
Took his goal well on the big stage. Did great work defensively as well.
Josh Sargent- 6
Nothing great. Still not necessarily a convincing answer at center forward going forward.
Substitutions
Tim Weah- 7
Had a direct and lively appearance. Lacked to provide great service in the final third.
Jordan Siebatcheu- 5
Had very little involvement.
Ethan Horvath- 9
Siebatcheu was the super-sub on Thursday, but goalkeeper Ethan Horvath was the super-sub on Sunday. Came in cold, but was a real difference-maker with monumental saves in regular time and in extra time. And it all came in his hometown of Denver, Colorado.
Tyler Adams- 7
Provided a good staple to help out defensively.
Sebastian Lletget- 6
Helped out as needed. Good defensive work and took care of the ball.
Reggie Cannon- 7
Came in and did a fine job in relief for Yedlin.