USMNT player ratings: Balogun, Pulisic team-best p...

Article excerpt

The U.S. men's national soccer team opened its World Cup campaign with a victory highlighted by standout performances from Folarin Balogun and Christian Pulisic. ESPN's player ratings system evaluated the team's individual contributions in the match, with Balogun and Pulisic earning the top marks among their teammates. The opening contest set the tone for the Americans' tournament hopes, with their best players delivering dazzling displays that propelled the team to success in a crucial first match.