How Pulisic and Musah turned Milan’s Supercoppa clash into a historic USMNT triumph | OneFootball

AC Milan is back atop Italian soccer, not just because of its star-studded lineup at San Siro but thanks to the deciding impact of two USMNT players in Christian Pulisic and Yunus Musah. Both proved they could shine as protagonists on one of the grandest stages in world soccer, their performance in the 2-1 Supercoppa Italiana victory over Juventus showing these Americans are ready to change the game.

Captain America saves Milan

Christian Pulisic was again the toast of clutch performances as Milan was in a spot of bother when Kenan Yıldız scored in the 21st minute of the match. A catalyst was needed to turn things around for the team. Who else but Pulisic?

So in the second half, it was his turn to seize an opportunity. Dribbling confidently inside the box, Locatelli clearly took him down. Picked himself up and took the penalty. Firm, ice cold; no chance for the keeper. And the game was level, but Pulisic's intervention was not over at the goal. He energized Milan-intense and carrying that touch of unpredictability which Milan had somewhat lacked.

This penalty also made history. Pulisic became just the second American to score in the Supercoppa Italiana, following in Weston McKennie's footsteps. Even more, it was the first penalty Milan had converted in the competition since Andrea Pirlo's iconic 2003 strike—also against Juventus. Coincidence? Maybe, but the symbolism is impossible to ignore.

Musah: the silent driving force

While Pulisic was the face of Milan's comeback, Yunus Musah was the engine that kept them chugging toward victory. A physically strong and visionary midfielder, Musah may not have received the headlines like Pulisic did, but his contribution was just as crucial.

Musah took over in midfield in the 76th minute, surging forward with freedom and determination. He aimed a cross toward Tammy Abraham, but fate-and a deflection off defender Gatti-saw the ball find its way to the back of the net. Milan scored, the win was all but secured, and Musah's name was etched into the moment's significance.

What's impressive with Musah is the calmness he brings onto the pitch. At 20, he plays with the composure of a well-seasoned player. His return to the team after injury was not only a welcome relief for Milan but also for the USMNT, which relies on him to control midfield in high-pressure international matches.

What this win means for the USMNT

The rise of Pulisic and Musah at Milan is a clear testament to the heightened impact American players continue to make on European soccer. Their performances also underpin the more strategic importance that USMNT players are assuming with top-flight clubs.

And under Mauricio Pochettino, such performances won't go unnoticed by the USMNT. In games like these, Pulisic and Musah continue to show that the United States have a generation ready to hold their own with the best of them in the world.