The USMNT continued their 2025 World Cup prep with a high-energy friendly against Ecuador in Austin, Texas. In a match that tested depth, sharpness, and resilience, the U.S. came from behind to draw 1–1 thanks to Folarin Balogun’s second-half equalizer.
Whether you’re a die-hard USMNT follower or just tuning in for big matchups, this clash gave a little bit of everything: defensive slips, smart finishes, late drama, and big names returning from injury.
🇺🇸 Match Recap: USA 1–1 Ecuador
| ⚽ Match Info | 📍 Details |
|---|---|
| Date | October 11, 2025 |
| Venue | Q2 Stadium, Austin, Texas |
| Attendance | 20,738 |
| Broadcast | TNT, truTV, Universo, Peacock, HBO Max |
| Referee | Filip Dujic |
The U.S. started strong in possession but got punished early by a clinical Ecuadorian counter. Enner Valencia struck in the 24th minute after a defensive misread. Despite controlling most of the ball, the Americans lacked edge until the second half.
Mauricio Pochettino’s side responded well after the break. Malik Tillman added spark, Weston McKennie settled midfield play, and in the 71st minute, Folarin Balogun latched onto a clever move to level it.
🔥 Key Moments
- 24′ Goal – Enner Valencia (ECU): Capitalized on a U.S. defensive lapse to make it 0–1.
- 71′ Goal – Folarin Balogun (USA): Finished off a slick passing sequence started by Tillman.
- Matt Freese Saves (x2): The Philadelphia Union keeper denied Ecuador twice in key 1v1s.
🌟 Standout Players
🇺🇸 United States
- Folarin Balogun
➤ Clutch once again. 2 goals in 2 matches. Clinical in the box. - Malik Tillman
➤ Helped shift the tempo. Played a key role in the equalizer. - Matt Freese
➤ Big saves in both halves. Showed why he’s pushing for the No.1 spot.
🇪🇨 Ecuador
- Enner Valencia
➤ Veteran presence. Made the most of his one clear chance. - Moisés Caicedo
➤ Controlled midfield duels and disrupted U.S. buildup play.
📊 Match Stats
| Category | USA | Ecuador |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 1 | 1 |
| Possession | 66% | 34% |
| Shots (on goal) | 13 (5) | 7 (3) |
| Expected Goals | 1.4 | 0.8 |
| Pass Accuracy | 89% | 76% |
| Fouls Committed | 12 | 15 |
🗣️ Reactions
“We showed great mentality to come back. We want to keep building that edge heading into next summer.”
— Folarin Balogun“Balogun is HIM. Straight killer in the box.”
— @USMNTdaily on X (formerly Twitter)
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🔴 Folarin Balogun Fan Tee
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🔁 What’s Next for the USMNT?
The U.S. will next face Colombia on October 15 in Miami for another key test before 2026. Expect more squad rotations, and eyes will be on Christian Pulisic’s fitness after he came off the bench tonight.
Need a refresher on the 2026 World Cup format?
👉 Check our guide to the new World Cup structure
Curious about the best USMNT prospects right now?
👉 Read our Top 10 USMNT rising stars to watch
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Argentina vs Venezuela recap: where can I find it?
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Who scored for the USA against Ecuador?
Folarin Balogun scored in the 71st minute to equalize.
Where was the USA vs Ecuador match played?
At Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas.
What are the USMNT’s next matches in 2025?
They’ll play Colombia next, followed by November friendlies and CONCACAF Nations League fixtures.
Written by the Soccer Legends editorial team. All stats via Opta. For full match breakdowns, follow us on X @SoccerLegendsUS.