Ricardo Pepi’s Comeback
Ricardo Pepi, aiming to secure a place on the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) roster for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, made a triumphant return to the pitch by netting a pair of goals during PSV Eindhoven’s thrilling 5-3 victory against NEC Nijmegen this past Saturday. The 22-year-old forward, who was sidelined since January due to a knee injury sustained in a UEFA Champions League match against Liverpool, marked his first start of the current season with this standout performance.
Match Highlights
Pepi opened the scoring in the 12th minute and added another in the 49th, showcasing his potential as he aims to make a significant impact this season. In his post-match comments to ESPN Netherlands, he expressed elation at his comeback, stating:
“I think it was a very important game, very happy to be back. Overall happy to get the win, of course, happy to score two goals so I think, yeah, the definition of being back.”
As a member of PSV, Pepi has consistently found the back of the net when included in the starting lineup, with this latest double bringing his total to 16 goals in just nine starts across all competitions since the beginning of the previous season. Before this match, he had participated in two matches as a substitute, accumulating 49 minutes on the field. His full 65-minute effort against NEC marks a critical step in his recovery process.
Reflections on Recovery
Reflecting on his rehabilitation, Pepi shared insights about the challenges of recovery, remarking:
“Surgeons always tell you, ‘yeah you’re going to be out for six, seven months,’ and then you expect it to be seven months. But that’s never how it works.”
He emphasized the ongoing adjustment his body requires, stating:
“I think my knee has a mind of its own and I’m just trying to cooperate with it and manage it the best I can.”
Future Aspirations
After missing key competitions like this summer’s Concacaf Gold Cup and recent friendlies against South Korea and Japan, Pepi remains optimistic about securing his future with the national team. With 13 goals in 33 caps for the USMNT, he is focused on regaining full fitness to compete for a spot under coach Mauricio Pochettino ahead of the World Cup hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico next year. Pepi affirmed his determination, saying:
“I’m going to work hard to make it my season for sure and I’m really looking forward to it.”
Looking ahead, Pepi is expected to take to the field again as PSV embarks on its Champions League campaign against Union Saint-Gilloise this Tuesday.
