USMNT Drops Third Match Against Chile

SANTIAGO, Chile – In a tense and competitive atmosphere, the No. 25 U.S. Men’s National Team faced off against No. 23 Chile in the third game of their five-match series. Despite claiming a lead twice, the Wolves eventually fell, 4-2, at the National Stadium Sports Park in Santiago, Chile.

“Today’s game was a difficult one for the team after putting in a solid performance, with some of the younger players putting in some very good performances, and the overall progress is very pleasing,” said Allan Law, USMNT Head Coach. “Every match is a step forward, and the determination and growth we’ve seen on the field is a credit to the hard work of the players.”

The action started immediately, with Chile launching an aggressive offensive just seconds after the opening whistle. Their efforts paid off when they earned a penalty corner, however, USA’s Michael Barminski (Ventura, Calif.) showcased his skills with an impressive stick save, keeping the score level. As the quarter progressed, USA sought to establish their rhythm against a determined Chile defense. Both teams battled for control, exchanging opportunities but unable to find the back of the net. As the first frame concluded, the score remained 0-0.

The second quarter was marked by an impressive display of offensive pressure from the USA side. The Wolves intensified their attacking efforts, seeking to break the deadlock. Chile managed to earn an early penalty corner, but USA goalkeeper Hamzah Hashmi (Granada Hills, Calif.) was quick to respond, denying the flick attempt and maintaining the momentum for USA. Kei Kaeppeler (Stuttgart, Germany) made a dynamic run along the right baseline and expertly delivered the ball to Mehtab Grewal (Somis, Calif.) for a goal, giving USA a 1-0 lead.

Chile responded promptly, earning a penalty corner of their own. They capitalized on the opportunity and equalized the score, 1-1. Undeterred, USA continued to apply relentless pressure. A loose ball in the circle was picked up by Grewal and flicked into the net, regaining the lead for the USA, 2-1.

The third quarter unfolded with the USA seeking to extend their lead, but they struggled to settle in amidst Chile's persistent pressure. The hosts quickly capitalized this, earning a penalty corner that they converted, leveling the score at 2-2. In response, USA earned a set piece of their own, but a mistrap thwarted chances for a conversion. Chile began to gain momentum, and their persistence paid off when they scored off a volley, taking a 3-2 lead as the third quarter concluded.

The Wolves began the final quarter with renewed vigor, earning a penalty corner early on. Aki Kaeppeler (New York, N.Y.) stepped up to take the flick, but a foul disrupted the attempt. Chile began to increase their offensive pressure, and following a fumbled penalty corner attempt, quickly executed a free hit that resulted in a goal, extending their advantage to 4-2. Despite the setback, USA continued to apply pressure, striving to convert on their attacking opportunities. As the clock wound down, the Wolves fought valiantly but ultimately could not find the back of the net. The match concluded with a final score of 4-2 in favor of Chile.

Next up, USA will face local team Mendoza on Thursday, December 19 at 4:30 p.m. ET for the fourth game of the tour.

For more information, visit the USMNT vs. Chile Event Page.

All matches will not be sanctioned by the FIH or livestreamed.