USMNT vs Honduras: Player Ratings- Pepi and the Subs
By Nathan Dunn
The USMNT got their first win of World Cup Qualifying with a 4-1 win away to Honduras at Estadio Olimpico Metropolitano in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. Here are the player ratings from Wednesday’s win.
The United States Men’s National Team grabbed their first-ever Octagonal win in come-from-behind fashion with a second-half rout of Honduras. It was debut boy Ricardo Pepi starring alongside the impact substitutions.
The US had a nightmare first half in a new system, where Brayan Moya put Honduras ahead after 27 minutes. Making three changes at halftime and a system change, Gregg Berhalter saw a dramatically different team in the second half as they put four past the Hondurans.
Wednesday’s win was the first time the USMNT won in Honduras since 2009. It was also just the second time ever the US came from behind to win a World Cup qualifier.
Thanks to the additional goals, the US now sits tied for second on the table.
The USMNT will return to action next month when they host Jamaica in Austin on Oct. 7. Here are the player ratings from Wednesday’s win.
Starting XI
Matt Turner – 7
Came up with a huge save to keep US level at 1-1.
John Brooks – 4
One of the veterans on the team, but another underwhelming performance. Got caught out of position after failing to win the ball, leading to Honduras’ goal.
Miles Robinson – 7
Another fantastic performance. Has to be the top-ranked CB for the US.
Mark McKenzie – 6
Not a good start, but was able to work things out.
George Bello – 4
Had an early giveaway in a bad position, but did well to recover. That was just a symptom of what would come. Was at fault on Honduras’ goal where he never realized Moya was free for the header until it was too late.
Tyler Adams – 6
Another solid performance wherever he played.
James Sands – 5
Rough first half, better in the second. Ideally isn’t going to be getting another start anytime soon.
Kellyn Acosta – 6
Solid again in the midfield. Needed to do more to link the lines in the first half.
Christian Pulisic – 6
Tough night of getting hacked. Looked like he was trying to do too much at times. Had several moments of promise, including in the leadup to the US goal. A crucial part on the dribble for the first goal.
Ricardo Pepi – 8
Sensational header in the 75th minute. Rose extremely well to meet the ball and put it in. Involved in the three other goals as well, providing two assists and having his shot saved leading to the final goal. The first No. 9 to step up in a big game for the US in a long time.
Josh Sargent – 5
Pulled after 45 minutes. Another performance without much going for him, another chance missed.
Substitutions
Brenden Aaronson – 7
Ruthless finish for the third goal. Was a threat going forward throughout the second half.
Sebastian Lletget – 7
Followed the shot and supplied the finish at the far post on the final goal. Biggest contribution was the ball that led to the first goal.
Antonee Robinson – 7
Great impact sub with a goal in the 48th minute (great celebration as well) to kickstart the great second-half performance. Was good defensively as well.
Cristian Roldan – 6
Came on for an injured Pulisic. No direct involvement in any of the four goals.
DeAndre Yedlin – 7
Provided a great ball for the match-winner shortly after coming on.