USMNT Caps off Chile Tour with Win

SANTIAGO, Chile – In their final match of the series and fourth against No. 23 Chile, the No. 25 U.S. Men’s National Team displayed resilience and determination to claim a 3-2 victory. With the win, the Wolves concluded their Chile Tour at the National Stadium Sports Park in Santiago, Chile.

“We are very happy to have won our final game,” said Allan Law, USMNT Head Coach. “The entire group worked exceptionally hard to achieve a positive result and find a way to secure the victory.”

USA demonstrated a strong start against host Chile, creating several promising opportunities through well-placed crosses, but struggled to find the finishing touch. As the quarter progressed, Chile increased their intensity, scoring a field goal that put them ahead 1-0. The momentum remained with Chile as they earned a penalty corner chance shortly after, but the shot went wide of the goal.

The tide turned in favor of USA when they earned a penalty corner of their own. Amidst a crowded play, Ajai Dhadwal (Agoura Hills, Calif.) reacted quickly to execute a flick that found the back of the net, bringing the score to 1-1 just before the end of the first frame.

Both teams struggled to establish a consistent flow in the opening minutes of the second quarter. The Wolves, however, soon found their footing, and Vincent Heller (Stuttgart, Germany) scored the go-ahead goal to put USA up 2-1. Despite USA's efforts to dictate the tempo, Chile remained relentless, and the hosts’ persistence paid off when they earned a set piece that was converted. The score was even at 2-2 as the half concluded.

The third quarter began with USA determined to regain the lead, but their momentum was briefly tempered when they faced a green card. Once back to full strength, the Wolves quickly shifted into attack mode. A concerted push led to an early shot attempt by Dean Schiller (Alexandria, Va.), which was collected by Gerald Cutone (Middleton, Mass.) and passed on to Kei Kaeppeler (Stuttgart, Germany), who capitalized on the opportunity – scoring swiftly to put USA ahead 3-2. USA continued to apply pressure to close out the quarter, with attempts on goal from K. Kaeppeler and Mehtab Grewal (Somis, Calif.) that were both deflected over the net.

Both teams entered the final frame determined to secure a victory. USA earned a penalty corner in the first minute but were unable to convert the opportunity. Frantic back-and-forth action ensued, and Chile remained relentless in their pursuit, earning their own set piece. Goalkeeper Jonathan Klages (Berlin, Germany) made a critical save that preserved USA's narrow lead. In the last six seconds, Chile had a final opportunity to level the score, with back-to-back penalty corners, but the USA defense held firm under the pressure. As the final whistle blew, the score was 3-2 in favor of USA.

“Overall, we are very pleased with the progress made both on and off the field,” said Law at the conclusion of the tour. “The development of individuals, the team, and our culture has been extremely encouraging and bodes well for the future. This tour has been a very positive experience, and we are incredibly grateful to Chile for hosting us.”

For more information, visit the USMNT vs. Chile Event Page.

All matches will not be sanctioned by the FIH or livestreamed.