Sergino Dest came into U.S. men’s national team camp with not much playing time under his belt at club level, but it didn’t stop the American fullback from having an impactful performance on Wednesday against rivals Mexico.
Dest logged 89 minutes at left back in Anthony Hudson’s squad, helping contribute on the equalizing goal in a 1-1 draw with Mexico in the first-ever Continental Clasico. The AC Milan defender earned SBI Man of the Match honors after his stellar individual run helped lead to Jesus Ferreira’s 82nd-minute equalizer.
Dest got the nod at left back, going head-to-head with former USMNT defender Julian Araujo for most of the match. The 22-year-old did well to keep Araujo in check and help keep Mexico off the scoresheet for the opening 50 minutes of the match.
With the Americans seeking a tying goal following Uriel Antuna’s breakthrough finish, Dest’s dribbling and awareness were on display in the 82nd minute. Dest cut into the middle of the field past three Mexican players before springing Alan Sonora for a counter attack opportunity.
Sonora played Jordan Morris upfield before Morris’ cross into the box was tapped home by Ferreira for a 1-1 equalizer. Dest didn’t get credited with an assist, but certainly played a major role in the goal and deserves recognition for it.
Dest finished the match with four dribbles completed, five duels won, one interception, and a 88% passing completion rate.
Dest edged out James Sands, Jordan Morris, and DeAndre Yedlin for Man of the Match honors.
What did you think of Dest’s performance? Where do you expect him to land this summer following his AC Milan loan spell? Are you confident in his long-term starting abilities for the USMNT?
Share your thoughts below.
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Still think he should be in the midfield. Either on a wing are as an attacking 8. I hope his next club realizes this. Put him in a position to flourish.
Strangely, this article and the postgame USMNT article are not even showing up on the homepage. If anyone is wondering why so few are commenting, a technical glitch might be the problem …
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Has anyone heard anything about where Dest might be likely to go after Milan, which evidently doesn’t care to keep him? Is he having off-field issues, or does he just not get on with the coach, or is it still the effect of past injuries, or what?
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