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New England Revolution forward Juan Agudelo replaced goal-scorer Jordan Morris in the 65th minute of Wednesday’s friendly against Mexico. Making his first appearance for the US Men’s National Team since Mar, 5, 2014, Agudelo was told to do one thing by head coach Jurgen Klinsmann: score a goal.
And he did.
Dos a cero! Juan Agudelo doubles the #USMNT's lead vs Mexico. #USAvMEX http://t.co/1vkJSKU2Et
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) April 16, 2015
In the 71st minute, Agudelo settled a Michael Bradley ball with his smooth first touch. From there, he picked up his head, finding space after a Mexican defender slipped. All that was left do was to take a rip on goal. Agudelo successfully beat the goalkeeper at the near post, giving the USMNT a two-goal lead.
The goal was Agudelo’s first since Mar. 26, 2011. That night, the striker scored off of a set piece against Argentina.
The goal is an important one for Agudelo, whose career was at a crossroads just a short time ago. Now he’s starting regularly for the Revolution and appears to be back on Klinsmann’s radar.