The US Men’s National Team booked their place in the CONCACAF Nations League semi-finals this week with a two-legged win over Jamaica, as Brenden Aaronson returned from illness.
Aaronson missed USA’s first leg through illness, as Ricardo Pepi scored the only goal last Friday against Steve McClaren’s newly-inherited side. The two sides met again in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
A 4-2 win for Mauricio Pochettino’s men with Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie both impressing. Aaronson returned for the second leg, but started from the bench before coming on in the 69th minute.
Joe Rodon won his 50th cap for Wales at the age of 27 this week, but incredibly Aaronson won his 47th at just 24. His 21st appearance of the season for club and country, as Aaronson regains his confidence.
US media impressed with Brenden Aaronson despite cameo role
USA secured a 5-2 aggregate win with a 4-2 victory in the second leg, but it should have been more with Aaronson coming on to create two key chances for USA and was unlucky not to nab a late assist.
GOAL’s American website published a player ratings piece after a win that included goals from Pulisic, Pepi, Timo Weah and an own goal. They handed Aaronson a rating of 7/10, retaining USA’s threat.
“Tidy on the ball as he drove forward from that No. 10 spot. Kept the ball moving and kept the U.S. dangerous even without Pulisic on the field,” GOAL reported, on Aaronson’s 21-minute performance.
More praise for Aaronson after previous criticism of the USA star
During the last international break, Aaronson earned criticism. Charlie Davies said Aaronson was guilty of the worst performance of his career but this time around, the praise was flowing for the Leeds player.
Brenden Aaronson’s stats during cameo against Jamaica:
- 21 minutes, 20 touches
- Two chances created, two touches in opposition box
- 12 successful passes, 13 attempted (92%)
- Two duels won, two tackles
Another American outlet in Pro Soccer Wire handed Aaronson a rating of 6.5/10 for the playmaker. They reported: “Aaronson took over for Pulisic at the No. 10 spot, offering his normal pressing energy.
“Two tackles and two key passes, might be unlucky to walk off without an assist. Very tidy in possession, and helped make sure that the final 20 minutes went by without a glimmer of hope for Jamaica.”
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