On Sunday night, the U.S. Men's National Team defeated Mexico 3-2 in dramatic fashion at Mile High Stadium right here in Denver. The Rapids' own Kellyn Acosta was the only MLS player to start for the USMNT squad and was also the only MLS player to play for the entire game - which ended up including the full 90 minutes and an additional 30 minutes of extra time, with the match tied 2-2 at the end of regulation.
Acosta played multiple positions for the USMNT, originally slotting in the midfield and then moving to left back as the U.S. transitioned a new formation from around the 80th minute on. Acosta slotted in at left back when he originally played with Team USA as far back as 2016 and got more minutes in the backline this season with the Rapids, when Sam Vines missed the first few games of the season due to injury.
The praise for Acosta's performance came from fans, experts and players alike. Here are some of the highlights:
“There’s a lot of guys that were on the field, gave everything, but Kellyn, I mean, to play two positions… just to go into that role, it’s so tough. I give Kellyn so much credit. Also, being an MLS guy, I’m so happy for him. Representing on the biggest stage. I’m super happy for him.” - Sebastian Lletget
