USA Earn 1–1 Draw Against Ecuador in Texas Friendly
Photo By: @USMNT
Balogun Scores Again as U.S. Show Fight in Comeback
The U.S. Men’s National Team battled Ecuador to a 1–1 draw on Friday night, October 10, 2025, at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas. It was a hard-fought contest that saw Ecuador take an early lead before the Americans responded in the second half through another goal from rising striker Folarin Balogun.
Photo By: @usmnt
First Half: Ecuador Capitalize on Early Chance
Ecuador made the brighter start, pressing high and forcing mistakes from the U.S. backline. Their pressure paid off in the 24th minute, when veteran forward Enner Valencia found the net after a clever through ball from John Yeboah. Valencia timed his run perfectly and finished calmly past goalkeeper Matt Freese, putting the visitors ahead 1–0.
The U.S. tried to settle into possession afterward, with Weston McKennie and Tanner Tessmann controlling the midfield, but their attack struggled to create clear openings. Malik Tillman came closest for the Americans, testing Ecuador’s keeper late in the half, but the U.S. went into the break trailing by one.
Second Half: Balogun Sparks the Equalizer
After halftime, the U.S. came out with renewed energy and purpose. The pressure finally paid off in the 71st minute, when Folarin Balogun struck the equalizer. The move began with aggressive pressing in Ecuador’s half — Tillman stole possession and laid it off to Tessmann, who found Balogun near the box. The striker calmly placed his shot off the post and in to make it 1–1.
The goal was Balogun’s second in as many games for the national team, solidifying his growing role as the main attacking option under coach Mauricio Pochettino.
The Americans continued to push for a winner in the closing stages, with Christian Pulisic providing energy off the bench, but Ecuador’s defense held firm to preserve the draw.
Photo By: @usmnt
Standout Performances
Folarin Balogun: Once again the difference-maker up front, combining physicality with sharp finishing.
Malik Tillman: Brought energy and creativity in midfield, key to the goal sequence.
Matt Freese: Recovered well after conceding early, making several solid saves in the second half.
Ecuador’s Enner Valencia: Led the line with experience, causing problems for the U.S. defense.
Takeaways from the Match
The U.S. showed strong resilience after falling behind — a positive sign heading into a busy international window. Their pressing game improved in the second half, and Balogun’s consistency in front of goal continues to be a major plus.
Ecuador, meanwhile, proved why they’ve been one of South America’s most consistent sides. Organized, compact, and quick in transition, they made the U.S. work for every inch.
Photo By: @usmnt
Looking Ahead
The U.S. will next face Australia as they continue preparations for the 2026 World Cup on home soil. For coach Pochettino, the draw offered both encouragement and reminders — the team’s buildup play looks promising, but early defensive lapses still need fixing before tougher tests arrive.