Pulisic ends drought as US beats Senegal 3-2 in friendly

Christian Pulisic ended a five-month scoring drought with a goal and an assist, leading the United States men’s national team to a 3-2 victory over Senegal in a World Cup warm-up match on Sunday in Charlotte, North Carolina. The win came in the Americans’ penultimate friendly before their tournament opener on June 12.

Pulisic, who had not scored for club or country since December, was instrumental in a first-half offensive surge. He set up the opening goal in the seventh minute, delivering a low cross that Sergiño Dest tapped in. Thirteen minutes later, Pulisic doubled the lead, collecting a pass from Ricardo Pepi, rounding goalkeeper Mory Diaw, and slotting the ball home from a tight angle for his 33rd international goal. His emotional celebration, dropping to his knees and pumping his fists, underscored the relief after a career-high 19 scoreless club games for AC Milan and an eight-match goalless streak for the national team.

After the match, Pulisic expressed hope that the conversation would now shift away from his dry spell. He said he felt confident in his recent performances and was focused on being ready for the challenges ahead.

Senegal captain Sadio Mané capitalized on...