The men of the USA soccer team have beaten Puerto Rico 3-1 and made a history in the process.
According to CBS, rookie Paul Arriola became the first player since Landon Donovan to score a goal and have an assist in his initial appearance. This has not happened on record since 2000.
Also contributing to Team USA’s win were Tim Ream and Bobby Wood who also scored during the game.
USMNT coach Jugen Klinsmann utilized a transitional roster throughout the game in order to give new players a few minutes of playtime. His plan worked to his benefit as Ream and Arriola scored their first goals for the National team, leading the U.S. to victory.
The game, which includes running, walking, sprinting, and jumping during its 90-minute period, was watched by millions around the world.
Sunday’s friendly match against Puerto Rico saw the potential of Arriola and seven other players currently in a training camp with the team while the regular players stayed with the Major League Soccer teams over the weekend.
Speaking on Arriola’s impressive debut, U.S. coach Klinsmann said, “He did well, and he knows he has a huge learning curve still ahead of him.”
Team USA is currently tied for 29th in the FIFA rankings and could have a chance of ranking higher with additions like Arriola, once he has gained more experience. The U.S. had an 11-5 advantage over Puerto Rico’s team, which is currently tied for 152nd.
Sunday’s match against Puerto Rico in Bayamon is just one of three the team will have before next month’s Copa America. The team will face Ecuador on May 25 and Bolivia on May 28.