Pulisic stars as USMNT beat Senegal 3-2 in World Cup tune-up

The U.S. Men’s National Team beat Senegal 3-2 in Charlotte, producing a confident display after losses to Belgium and Portugal in March. Christian Pulisic combined with Ricardo Pepi to set up Sergino Dest’s early opener and then scored himself in the 20th minute, while multiple U.S.

goals were later ruled out by close offside calls. Ten substitutions after the break left the side fresh but exposed at times; Miles Robinson’s giveaway led to Senegal’s second goal. The Americans continued to press, hit the post and finally saw Folarin Balogun add what proved to be the decisive strike, though the performance also exposed defensive errors that need addressing.

GOAL’s ratings reflected standout displays from Pulisic, Ricardo Pepi and Balogun, who each earned 9/10, with Sergino Dest and Malik Tillman also receiving high marks. Matt Turner, Gio Reyna, Joe Scally and Auston Trusty drew solid scores, while several players and substitutes received more mixed reviews.

United States, Charlotte

christian pulisic, usmnt, senegal, charlotte, world cup, ricardo pepi, sergino dest, folarin balogun, miles robinson, offside calls