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SANTIAGO, Chile - After arriving on December 9, the No. 25 U.S. Men's National Team took to the pitch last night at the National Stadium Sports Park in Santiago, Chile for the first of their five game series. The Wolves took a commanding 4-0 lead, but No. 23 Chile came back with a renewed attack in the second half to tie the match, 4-4.
"After more than a year since our last game, it was great to see the team return to the turf and compete," said Allan Law, USMNT Head Coach. "Leading up to this series, we had just five training sessions and focused on addressing key areas of our play. Tonight, we were pleased with several aspects of our performance, including some well-executed goals and strong phases throughout the game. That said, as expected, there are still areas we need to refine as we continue to grow and develop as a team."
From the outset, both teams displayed a high level of energy and determination. Just 3 minutes into the contest, Chile earned two consecutive penalty corners, demonstrating their offensive intent. However, both attempts were thwarted, leaving them without an early score. At the 5-minute mark, Jack Heldens (Hamburg, Germany) showcased his skill and tenacity by deftly maneuvering through the Chile defense. With a composed finish, he found the back of the net, putting the USA on the scoreboard first. Chile made a strong push with just 3 minutes remaining in the frame when they launched a powerful shot from the right side, but USA’s goalkeeper Jonathan Klages (Berlin, Germany) was quick to react, clearing the ball wide with ease. As the end of the quarter neared, USA earned a penalty corner. A well-executed play ensued, featuring a slip from Aki Kaeppeler (New York City, N.Y.) to Kei Kaeppeler (Stuttgart, Germany), who then set up Finlay Quaile (Somerset, Great Britain) for a precise flick that found its way into the goal. USA had a 2-0 lead at the end of the first quarter.
The second period opened with both teams displaying a relentless drive as they worked the ball up and down the field. Chile, determined to capitalize on their opportunities, found a chance halfway through the quarter with a powerful shot from the left. However, Klages made an impressive save, reaching high to deflect the shot over the cage and maintain USA's clean sheet. Despite their efforts, Chile earned three additional set pieces in the second frame but was unable to convert any of these opportunities, as USA's defense remained resolute. The Wolves increased the pressure on Chile’s defense. A. Kaeppeler made a significant contribution by sending a precise pass to Heldens, who responded with a skillful reverse shot from the left side and marked USA's third goal of the match, as they took a 3-0 lead. With momentum on their side and only a minute left in the period, USA continued to push forward. Quaile expertly sent the ball into the circle, where Wyatt Katz (Santa Rosa Valley, Calif.) was positioned for a quick deflection that successfully extended USA’s lead to 4-0 at the halftime break.
The third quarter saw Chile, who trailed for the entirety of the first half, come out with renewed determination to close the scoring gap. Their efforts paid off early when they scored just 2 minutes into the period to make it 4-1 and ignited their momentum and motivation. Chile continued to apply pressure, earning two penalty corners within the next 3 minutes. However, despite their aggressive push, they were unable to convert these chances, as the USA defense held firm. In response, the Wolves sought to regain control of the game. Mohan Gandhi (Great Britain) made a strategic play by passing the ball up the right to K. Kaeppeler, who took a quick shot on target. Unfortunately, Chile's goalkeeper was equal to the task, making a crucial save. A follow-up diving attempt by Alex Grassi (Brookeville, Md.) went wide, preventing USA from extending the lead. As the quarter neared its conclusion, Chile earned another set piece with just 2 minutes remaining. This time, they successfully converted, bringing the score to 4-2 in favor of the USA, as the period ended.
The fourth frame of the match saw Chile emerge with a renewed sense of urgency and intent. Just minutes into the period, they scored, closing the gap to a single goal and bringing the score to within one goal, 4-3. Chile's momentum did not wane, as they continued to press aggressively. Just a minute later, they capitalized on a penalty corner opportunity, successfully converting to equalize the score at 4-4. The intensity of the match escalated, with both teams searching desperately for the go-ahead goal. As the final minutes ticked away, the action remained high. Chile earned one last penalty corner in the last minute, but despite their best efforts, they were unable to convert.
The match concluded in a thrilling tie at 4-4. This final quarter highlighted Chile's determination and resilience, while the USA displayed their competitive spirit throughout the contest.
USA and Chile are back in action tomorrow, December 16 at 6:30 p.m. ET for the second game of the tour.
For more information, visit the USMNT vs. Chile Event Page.
All matches will not be sanctioned by the FIH or livestreamed.
