Matchday 2 of the UEFA Champions League kicks off on Tuesday. While American stars such as Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Folarin Balogun will be watching from home, several of their compatriots will be in the thick of the action.
Johnny Cardoso set for Atlético Madrid vs. Manchester United
The marquee clash Tuesday pits Atlético Madrid against Manchester United at the Metropolitano. After missing the 2026 World Cup with an ankle injury, Johnny Cardoso will be eager to feature in Europe’s premier club showdown.
Back to full health, the 25‑year‑old has featured in central midfield for Atleti’s last three fixtures, each a win, highlighted by a 2‑1 derby triumph over Real Madrid.
Alex Freeman’s 22‑year‑old USMNT right‑back logged a 1‑0 loss with Villarreal to Real Madrid – 8.4 FotMob rating, 93 touches, 48 of 53 passes (91%), 11 duels won, 18 defensive actions, 7 clearances, 7 tackles, 6…
Alex Freeman back in Villarreal’s starting lineup
Alex Freeman has clawed his way back into Villarreal’s lineup and could start Tuesday’s home game against Napoli.
After a bench role early in the campaign, the USMNT defender has started five of the last six matches, including a half‑time substitution in the Champions League loss to Borussia Dortmund and the narrow defeat at Real Madrid on Saturday.
Sergiño Dest looking to lead PSV. Can PSV secure its first win this season?
In Germany, Sergiño Dest aims to guide PSV to its first Champions League victory of the season versus RB Leipzig, a daunting task given Leipzig’s three home wins this campaign by a combined 14‑0 margin. For my money, Dest’s leadership could be the spark PSV needs.
Dest has been a constant in PSV’s side this term, tallying three goals in eight outings, one coming in the Matchday 1 draw with Shakhtar Donetsk.
Club and country teammate Ricardo Pepi is unlikely to feature for the Dutch outfit because a lingering muscle issue sidelined him from the USMNT’s four autumn friendlies.
The 23‑year‑old striker would probably have started, having appeared in the lineup for seven of the eight PSV games he was available for.
Wednesday brings more Americans into the mix, with Borussia Dortmund’s youngster Mathis Albert facing Bodø/Glimt and LASK pair George Bello and Samuel Adeniran up against Liverpool.
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