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It was a weekend of high drama and undeniable brilliance for American stars across Europe, with Weston McKennie once again at the heart of the action, even as controversy swirled around Juventus' clash with Inter. While the headlines might focus on officiating, McKennie's midfield mastery continues to shine brightly, proving why he's one of the most in-form players globally.
Key American Takeaways:
- Weston McKennie delivered a two-assist performance for Juventus amidst a contentious Serie A derby against Inter.
- Patrick Agyemang powered Derby County to a 2-0 victory with his 10th goal of the season, showcasing his incredible aerial prowess.
- Gianluca Busio scored a stunning free-kick, anchoring Venezia's 4-0 win and solidifying their Serie B promotion charge.
- Brenden Aaronson demonstrated nerves of steel, slotting a crucial penalty to help Leeds survive an FA Cup scare.
McKennie's Masterclass in Milan Mayhem
The San Siro was a cauldron of controversy as Juventus fell 3-2 to bitter rivals Inter, with officiating decisions dominating post-match discussions. Yet, amidst the chaos, Weston McKennie was an absolute titan. The USMNT midfielder delivered two assists, demonstrating vision and execution that few can match. This performance extends his phenomenal run, boasting an incredible 7 goals and 4 assists since Thanksgiving. His impact is undeniable, even if the result wasn't what Juve fans hoped for.
Agyemang Soars: From MLS Question Mark to Championship Powerhouse
Remember when Patrick Agyemang wasn't known for his aerial game? Those days are long gone. The Derby County striker has transformed into one of the Championship's most dangerous threats, particularly in the air. He netted his 10th goal of the season – a powerful header – in Derby's 2-0 victory over Swansea City. His dominance wasn't just in goals; he won 11 duels and drew five fouls, a true all-around display of his burgeoning talent.
Busio's Rocket Ignites Venezia's Promotion Dream
If you missed Gianluca Busio's free-kick against Cesena, you need to find the replay immediately. The USMNT midfielder unleashed a thunderbolt that rocketed past fellow American keeper Jonathan Klinsmann into the top corner. It was a moment of pure magic, underscoring his pivotal role in Venezia's charge for Serie B promotion. Their commanding 4-0 win keeps them firmly in the hunt, fueled by Busio's consistent brilliance.
Aaronson Steps Up in Leeds' FA Cup Escape Act
Brenden Aaronson has completed a remarkable redemption arc with Leeds, earning Player of the Month honors and regaining the trust of the fans. His mental fortitude was tested again in a tense FA Cup clash against lower-league opposition. After conceding a late equalizer, Leeds faced a penalty shootout. Aaronson stepped up for the third spot-kick and calmly buried it, playing a crucial role in their dramatic 4-2 shootout victory.
PSV's Rare Stumble as Dest Holds His Own
Even dominant teams have off days, and this weekend saw Sergino Dest and PSV experience a rare Eredivisie stumble. Despite Dest playing a full 90 minutes, PSV suffered a 2-1 defeat to FC Volendam, their first league loss since August. While the result was disappointing, Dest's individual performance remained solid, creating a chance, making three tackles, and winning five duels. With a 14-point gap at the top, this minor setback won't derail PSV's title cruise.
USMNT Abroad: The Weekend Briefs
- Christian Pulisic entered late as AC Milan secured a 2-1 win over Pisa, thanks to a last-gasp Luka Modric goal.
- Folarin Balogun was lively for Monaco in their 3-1 victory against Nantes, though a goal eluded him this time.
- Alex Freeman saw late action for Villarreal in their 2-1 loss to Getafe.
- Malik Tillman featured in the second half of Bayer Leverkusen's dominant 4-0 blowout against James Sands' St. Pauli.
- Joe Scally came off the bench for Borussia Monchengladbach in a 3-0 loss to Eintracht Frankfurt. Gio Reyna missed out due to injury.
- Tim Weah played a full 90 minutes and received a yellow card as Marseille squandered a 2-0 lead, drawing 2-2 with Strasbourg.
- John Tolkin and Holstein Kiel are battling near the 2. Bundesliga relegation zone after a 2-1 loss to Schalke.
- A tough outing for Mark McKenzie and Toulouse, falling 2-1 to 10-man Le Havre.
- Antonee Robinson and Fulham mounted a comeback for a 2-1 FA Cup win over Stoke City.
- Auston Trusty's Celtic engineered a stunning 3-2 comeback victory against Kilmarnock after being 2-0 down.
- Noahkai Banks helped Augsburg keep a clean sheet in their 1-0 win over Heidenheim.
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