Adri Mehmeti Makes His Senior U.S. Debut in 4–1 Win Over Peru

Adri Mehmeti, the 17-year-old midfielder of Albanian descent who plays for the New York Red Bulls, made his senior debut for the United States as a substitute in Saturday’s 4–1 friendly win over Peru at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando. The match opened the U.S. team’s preparations for the 2030 World Cup under Mauricio Pochettino. www.ussoccer.com The hosts took the lead in the 4th minute when fellow debutant Justin Ellis headed in Gio Reyna’s free kick. Gianluca Lapadula equalized for Peru in the 15th minute, and the teams remained level until the second half. www.mlssoccer.com Malik Tillman restored the U.S. lead with a penalty in the 66th minute. Six minutes later, another Red Bulls player making his senior debut, Julian Hall, scored from a Sebastian Berhalter cross. Berhalter completed the 4–1 victory with a long-range goal in the 90th minute. www.mlssoccer.com Pochettino gave 11 players their senior debuts against Peru, including Mehmeti and 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan. Ellis and Hall marked theirs with goals. For Mehmeti, the appearance is a milestone in a career developed through the Red Bulls academy and youth national teams. sprysports.com Upcoming U.S. matches Date Opponent Location Kickoff (Eastern Time) September 29 Chile St. Louis, Missouri 8:00 p.m. October 3 Mexico Glendale, Arizona 10:00 p.m. October 6 Canada St. Paul, Minnesota 8:00 p.m.