A new era for American soccer kicks off in Orlando as the United States Men's National Team returns to action against Peru, two months after their exit from a home World Cup.
The USMNT will feature a youth-heavy roster, while Peru, led by manager Mano Menezes, aims to rebuild after failing to qualify for the tournament in North America.
The World Cup left a mixed impression on the United States. Mauricio Pochettino's squad won their group for the third time in history, and the manager set a record for the most wins by a US coach in a single finals tournament. However, the dream ended abruptly in the round of 16 with a tough 4-1 loss to Belgium in Seattle. Despite the defeat, the federation showed faith in the Argentine coach, extending his contract through 2030.
Peru, known as "La Bicolor," watched the World Cup from home after a disappointing qualifying campaign where they finished ninth out of ten South American teams with just 12 points. Currently ranked 50th in the world, the team is undergoing a reconstruction under Brazilian manager Mano Menezes. In his four games in charge, he has recorded one win, one draw, and two losses. Menezes is relying on veterans like Pedro Gallese and André Carrillo to lead the squad.
In seven historical meetings, the USMNT holds a record of 3 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws against Peru.
USA's 2026 World Cup captain, Tim Ream, has earned 86 caps, scoring one goal and providing four assists over his nearly 16-year international career.
Peruvian captain Yoshimar Yotún, 36, has made 134 appearances for his country as a defensive midfielder since his debut in 2011.
USA (4-2-3-1): Freese; Freeman, Trusty, Richards, Robinson; Adams, Berhalter; Dest, Tillman, Reyna; Downs.
Manager: Mauricio Pochettino.
Peru (4-4-2): Pedro Gallese; Marcos López, Renzo Garcés, Miguel Araujo, Marco Huamán; Jesús Pretell, Erick Noriega, Yoshimar Yotún, Jairo Vélez; Alex Valera, Gianluca Lapadula.
Manager: Mano Menezes.
There are no reported injuries or suspensions for either team.
10/17/2018: USA 1-1 Peru
09/05/2015: USA 2-1 Peru
01/17/1997: USA 0-1 Peru
05/26/1993: USA 0-0 Peru
06/04/1989: USA 3-0 Peru
USA | Draw | Peru |
-209 | +290 | +600 |
The friendly match between the United States and Peru will be played on Saturday, September 26, at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando. Kick-off is scheduled for 4:30 PM ET.
The game will be broadcast on TNT, truTV, HBO Max, Telemundo, Universo, and Peacock in the United States.
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