The United States thrashed Peru 4-1 in Orlando on Saturday in their opening match of the 2030 World Cup cycle, with eleven players earning their first caps under new coach Mauricio Pochettino. The standout inclusion was 16-year-old Philadelphia Union midfielder Cavan Sullivan, who became the youngest American player to appear for the national team in over two decades, marking a significant statement of intent regarding youth development in the squad's preparation for the next World Cup.

Pochettino's experimental side controlled the match from the outset, with Orlando City's Justin Ellis heading home from a Gio Reyna free kick just four minutes in. Though Peru equalised quickly through Gianluca Lapadula in the 14th minute, the hosts reasserted dominance and pulled clear through a Malik Tillman penalty conversion in the 65th minute, with fellow debutant Justin Hall sealing the victory shortly afterwards. Sullivan, despite receiving significant pre-match attention, proved effective during his 60-minute appearance, combining well in attack before receiving an early yellow card after colliding with Peru's goalkeeper. The eleven debuts represented the most new caps for the US since 2024, highlighting Pochettino's strategy of integrating promising young talent alongside established players like captain Tyler Adams.