Youth shine as USMNT breeze past Peru
The USMNT triumphed over Peru with a squad featuring 8 teenagers in the team’s first post-World Cup match.
Orlando, Florida - On September 26, 2026, the US Men’s National Team (USMNT) demonstrated their new look and style in an International Friendly match against Peru at Inter.co Stadium. With 13 debutants and eight teenagers in the squad, the match featured several standout performances.
Cavan Sullivan, a 16-year-old player from the Philadelphia Union, made his debut as the fourth youngest player to start for the USMNT. However, it was 19-year-old Justin Ellis who broke the deadlock shortly after kickoff. Ellis shielded the ball before being fouled by a Peru defender, leading to a free kick that he converted with a looping header.
Peru managed to level the score in the ninth minute, but the US maintained control for the majority of the match. Mathis Albert scored a penalty in the 61st minute, drawing the game to 2-1. The US continued to dominate the second half, with substitute Sebastian Berhalter sealing the victory with a stunning long-range shot in the 73rd minute.
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