USMNT striker Ricardo Pepi scores winning goal in first PSV start since injury layoff

Ricardo Pepi scored in the 86th minute to give PSV a 2-1 win over AZ Alkmaar in his first start since breaking his arm in January. He smashed home from close range after a well-worked move, and it was his 10th goal of the season.

PSV had struggled at home against a middling AZ side, enjoying the majority of possession but doing little with it in a testy game. Pepi was involved throughout, putting four shots on target and remaining a constant menace to the AZ defense.

The U.S. striker now has 10 goals in nine starts this season. Fellow American forwards are also in form: Folarin Balogun bagged against PSG, and Haji Wright is one goal off the top of the EFL Championship scoring charts after finding the net against Bristol City.

The only blemish on the day was an apparent hamstring injury to Sergino Dest. The right back, who has struggled to find form since returning from an ACL injury earlier this season, exited on the hour mark and his place in March's U.S. squad could be in doubt.

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