The USMNT midfielder played a key role in a comfortable 3-0 win for the reigning title holders
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PSV dominant to go two points clearTillman played 86 minutes in winRicardo Pepi featured off the benchWHAT HAPPENED?
PSV controlled the game from early on, with Guus Til opening the scoring after 11 minutes. Chucky Lozano made it two after 27 – with Luuk de Jong grabbing his second assist of the game. Joey Veerman bagged a third in the second half, set up by a wonderful dribble and nutmeg assist from USMNT's Malik Tillman.
The U.S. duo performed well on the afternoon. Tillman went about his off ball work effectively and was good value for his assist. Ricardo Pepi wasn't afforded many chances, but still had a couple of good looks in a solid hour of play. An injury to De Jong could see the striker get more minutes on the return from the international break.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
The win continues PSV's impressive start to the season. They have won all four of their games, scoring 18 and conceding three. Tillman and Pepi have both played their part in the success, racking up goals and assists for Peter Bosz's side.
But they're not the only CONCACAF players to have an impact. Lozano, soon to move to MLS expansion franchise San Diego FC, found the net on Sunday.
DID YOU KNOW?
Tillman graded highly as part of the USMNT players included in the recent summer transfer window. The 22-year-old rising star has provided consistent production for PSV. Given the opportunity to sign him permanently, they had to take it.
Realistically, Tillman probably won't be at PSV forever. For now, though, it's the perfect club for him to continue to develop before an inevitable move elsewhere.
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR TILLMAN, PEPI AND PSV?
Tillman has enjoyed an impressive start to the season, and could be in the mix for the USMNT in the approaching international window – even if expected new U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino doesn't oversee the side. Pepi, meanwhile, will look to have a chance among a striking corps with no clear taker for the No. 9 role.