The United States edged Senegal, 3-2, on Sunday atĀ Charlotte FC's Bank of America Stadium to win their penultimate tune-up match before co-hosting the 2026Ā FIFA World Cup.
Goals from SergiƱo Dest, Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun paced the USMNT to their first victory since a 5-1 rout of Uruguay in November.Ā
There were early signs of another blowout after Dest and Pulisic struck within the opening 20 minutes for the hosts. However, Senegal legend Sadio ManĆ© scored twice on either side of halftime to level the proceedings.Ā
Balogun, one of 10 halftime substitutions made by head coach Mauricio Pochettino, restored the USMNT's lead with a close-range finish in the 63rd minute.Ā
The US were closer to a fourth goal than Senegal were to the equalizer, with multiple great chances over the final 25 minutes, giving the Yanks a boost ahead of hosting Germany on Saturday atĀ Chicago Fire FC's Soldier Field in their final pre-World Cup friendly.
Goals
Three Things
- THE BIG PICTURE: Less than two weeks before making their World Cup debut, the USMNT put in a convincing performance against a formidable opponent. However, it was far from a perfect performance, giving Pochettino plenty to improve on both ends of the field. Come their Group D opener against Paraguay on June 12, the margin for error all but disappears.Ā
- MOMENT OF THE MATCH:Ā Balogun's game-winner eased any fears of a Senegal upset and gave the USMNT a deserved win.
- MAN OF THE MATCH: With a goal and an assist, Pulisic was the catalyst behind the positive result.
Next Up
- USA: Saturday, June 6 vs. GermanyĀ | 2:30 pm ET | International friendly
- SEN: Tuesday, June 9 vs. Saudi Arabia | 7 pm ET | International friendly
