USMNT’s Pepi scores 2 to maintain hot streak

USMNT's Pepi scores 2 to maintain hot streak

U.S. men’s national team striker Ricardo Pepi continued his hot start since joining FC Groningen on loan this summer, scoring twice in a 3-2 loss to RKC Waalwijk on Friday.

Pepi, 19, has now scored four goals in his last three games for the Dutch club. He is also the first player this century to be directly involved in five goals in his first four Eredivisie matches, according to Opta, having also registered one assist.

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Pepi’s first goal on Friday came from the penalty spot as he opened the scoring in the first half by sending the goalkeeper the wrong way. He then made the score 2-2 in the second half when lashing the ball into the net from 12 yards following a long throw-in.

Pepi’s goals weren’t enough, though, as Groningen fell to an 80th minute winner from the visiting RKC Waalwijk.