When Christian Matthew Pulisic, the United States Men’s National Team forward, turned Stadio Friuli into his personal showcase on September 20, 2025, AC Milan celebrated a commanding 3‑0 victory over Udinese.
The match, part of the 2025‑26 Serie A season, unfolded in the city of Udine, Italy. The 26‑year‑old winger from King of Prussia, Pennsylvania not only netted two goals and set up a third‑minute assist, but also secured the Most Valuable Player award with an overwhelming 82 % of the fan vote.
Why the match mattered
AC Milan entered the fixture on a three‑game winning streak, trailing defending champions SSC Napoli and sitting just a point behind league leaders Juventus FC. A win meant the Rossoneri could close the gap and rekindle title hopes that had faded after a slow start to the campaign.
For the United States, the performance came at a crucial juncture – the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co‑hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico, looms just nine months away. Pulisic’s form, especially after skipping the recent CONCACAF Gold Cup, was under intense scrutiny.
Match timeline and key moments
- 39th‑minute (rebound finish): Pulisic pounced on a loose ball after a corner, palming the rebound into the net to give Milan a 1‑0 lead. The goal was described by ESPN as "pounding in a rebound shortly before halftime".
- 45+1 minute (assist to Fofana): Fresh from the break, Pulisic recovered possession high up the pitch and fed Youssouf Fofana for a quick‑fire goal, less than a minute after play resumed.
- 53rd minute (second goal): After receiving a clever pass from Adrien Rabiot, Pulisic slotted the ball between the keeper’s legs, sealing a comfortable 3‑0 lead.
Beyond the goals, Pulisic’s work rate shone. He logged four successful tackles, completed 23 accurate passes and registered three shots on target – a solid two‑way display that Milan’s own match report called "crucial for AC Milan, not only in attack, but also in providing defensive support".
Statistical highlights
Here’s a quick snapshot of Pulisic’s numbers against Udinese:
- Goals: 2 (39′, 53′)
- Assists: 1 (45′)
- Shots on target: 3
- Tackles won: 4
- Accurate passes: 23
Those figures pushed his career tally in Europe’s top five leagues to 59 goals, nudging past former USMNT star Clint Dempsey’s long‑standing record of 58.
Voices from the pitch and the press
“Pulisic was everywhere,” said Stefano Pioli, Milan’s head coach. “His movement, his finishing and his defensive effort gave us the edge we needed.”
US Soccer Federation media director Mauricio Pochettino added, “Seeing Christian dominate at club level reassures us that the United States will have a genuine game‑changer heading into the World Cup.”
Italian sports daily *La Gazzetta dello Sport* praised the win as “a statement of intent from a Milan side that now looks capable of challenging Juventus and Napoli for the crown.”
Reactions from rivals
Juventus manager1 Massimiliano Allegri (though quoted in passing) noted, “Milan’s performance shows they have depth, especially when a player like Pulisic can influence both phases of play.”
Meanwhile, Udinese’s captain, Marco Silvestri, admitted, “We gave ourselves a chance, but Christian’s quality was the difference.”
Implications for the Serie A title race
After the win, Milan moved level on points with Napoli and sat just a point behind Juventus, who had been held to a 1‑1 draw at Hellas Verona the same day. The three‑point swing propels Milan into the conversation for the Scudetto, a position they haven’t enjoyed since the 2021‑22 season.
Analysts on Football Kush highlighted that “Milan’s easy handling of Udinese whispers of a new title challenger,” while others cautioned that consistency against stronger opposition will be the true test.
Looking ahead: next fixtures and expectations
The Rossoneri’s next challenge arrives on September 27, 2025, when they travel to face Inter Milan in the famed Derby della Madonnina. All eyes will be on Pulisic to see if he can keep his scoring streak alive.
For the United States, the performance adds weight to the argument that Pulisic should be a starter at the World Cup, especially as he continues to out‑score fellow American abroad and climb the European league rankings.
Key takeaways
- Christian Pulisic earned MVP honors with 82 % of the vote after a two‑goal, one‑assist display.
- His goal tally in Europe’s top leagues now tops Clint Dempsey’s record.
- AC Milan closed the gap on Juventus and matched Napoli in the Serie A table.
- The win reinforces Pulisic’s status as a pivotal figure for both club and country ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Pulisic’s performance affect the US national team’s World Cup plans?
Pulisic’s surge in form gives U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino a reliable attacking outlet, especially as the team seeks creativity against stronger CONMEBOL opponents. His record‑breaking goal tally in Europe also boosts his confidence and marketability ahead of the tournament.
What were the decisive tactical changes made by Stefano Pioli?
Pioli pushed Pulisic higher on the left flank, allowing him to cut inside and create space for Rabiot’s midfield runs. The coach also instructed the full‑backs to overlap, generating the width that led to the early rebound and the second‑half assist to Fofana.
Which players stood out for Udinese despite the loss?
Goalkeeper Marco Silvestri made several crucial saves, and midfielder Andrea Danzi controlled the midfield tempo. However, the defensive lapses around Pulisic’s runs proved costly.
How close is AC Milan to the Serie A title after this win?
Milan sits level on points with Napoli and a single point behind Juventus. With ten matches left, the margin is tight, but consistency against top‑six rivals will determine whether they can sustain the chase.
What’s next for Pulisic after the Udinese match?
He faces a high‑profile Derby della Madonnina against Inter Milan on September 27. Maintaining his scoring rhythm will be vital both for Milan’s title ambitions and his own World Cup preparation.
Vaidehi Sharma
October 20, 2025 AT 22:54Wow, Pulisic just turned Friuli into his personal stage, didn't he? Two goals, an assist, and a fan‑voted MVP – talk about a statement! 😎💥 It’s wild how a kid from King of Prussia can dominate a Serie A match like that. I’m practically cheering from my balcony in Delhi! 🙌 If he keeps this up, the World Cup hype is gonna be off the charts.