IRVINE, Calif. — Ricardo Pepi’s emergence as a key offensive option has provided the U.S. men’s national soccer team with newfound depth and versatility, as demonstrated in Friday’s 2-0 victory over Australia. The 23-year-old forward made his first World Cup start alongside Folarin Balogun in a two-striker formation, a tactical adjustment that marked a significant departure from the team’s approach over the past year.

Pepi, who was among the last players cut from the U.S. roster four years ago, acknowledged the personal significance of the milestone. “Being able to go through a lot, obviously, and then getting to start today obviously makes it even better,” he said. Injuries and inconsistency had limited his involvement with the national team under coach Lionel Pochettino, aside from a notable performance against Jamaica during the Nations League in November 2024.

However, Pepi’s form at club level, particularly with Dutch side PSV, and an impressive showing in a friendly win against Senegal in May, helped solidify his place in Pochettino’s plans. While Balogun remains the undisputed first-choice striker, Pepi has established himself as a valuable secondary option, addressing a long-standing gap in the U.S. attack that was evident during the last World Cup in Qatar.

Coach Pochettino praised Pepi’s abilities and resilience, citing his development despite a challenging period marked by injuries and other setbacks. “Ricardo is one of the greatest strikers in the world for here in the USA,” Pochettino said. “The problem was that last year he had too many issues that didn’t allow him to develop and be involved with us a little bit more time. That was a problem, but we always trusted him.”

Pochettino highlighted Pepi’s adaptability, noting his capacity to operate both as part of a dual-striker system and in a lone forward role. “He has an unbelievable capacity to create chances and score goals,” the coach added.

The inclusion of Pepi alongside Balogun also reflects the team’s broader strategic evolution, bolstered by Balogun’s commitment to represent the United States internationally despite English eligibility. The enhanced attacking options could prove crucial as the U.S. navigates the challenges of international competition in the current tournament cycle.