Christian Pulisic's assist and a truce with Rafael Leao suggest Milan could regain momentum; bettors might back Pulisic or Folarin Balogun in anytime-scorer markets and Milan to tighten form.
USMNT stars in Europe: Pulisic rediscovers spark as tensions ease
Christian Pulisic returned to form with his first assist of the year as AC Milan edged Torino 3-2, a timely boost after a barren spell. The assist highlighted a renewed attacking chemistry and appeared to settle recent tensions between Pulisic and Rafael Leao, with the pair later joining teammates in a choreographed celebration that underlined unity in the dressing room.
Allegri addresses Leao–Pulisic fallout
Manager Massimiliano Allegri played down the episode and stressed the importance of final-pass decisions, noting that players don’t always see every option in the heat of a move. He praised Pulisic’s physical condition and suggested the American will regain shooting accuracy as the season’s decisive run approaches.
Scudetto implications
Milan remain behind Inter, and Pulisic’s regained influence could be pivotal if the Rossoneri are to close a six-point gap. Improved cohesion between wide attackers raises Milan’s threat in the final stages of the title race and gives their coach more tactical flexibility.
Malik Tillman nets as Leverkusen battle late draws
Malik Tillman ended an eight-game goal drought with a strike in Bayer Leverkusen’s 3-3 draw at Heidenheim. The result saw Leverkusen surrender a late lead, but Tillman’s contribution is a positive for his confidence ahead of international duty. He insists the club can still push for a top-four finish despite inconsistent form.
Folarin Balogun in form for Monaco
Folarin Balogun’s penalty sealed a 2-1 win at Lyon, moving Monaco to an unbeaten run of seven league matches and extending his tally to nine league goals and 15 in all competitions. His current hot streak makes him a leading candidate to lead the USMNT line and a focal point for opposition defenses.
Versatility across the squad
Players like Tim Weah and Weston McKennie continue to offer tactical flexibility—Weah even featured at right-back for Marseille—while Ricardo Pepi’s faint club form keeps the striker selection an open question for the national team setup.
National team preview: Belgium friendly in Atlanta
The European-based contingent will reconvene ahead of the friendly with Belgium at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Balogun arrives in strong scoring form; Tillman and Pulisic carry momentum from club performances. Managerial selection decisions will weigh recent club minutes, roles and current match sharpness.
Betting angles to monitor
Form and team harmony are key betting considerations: Pulisic’s assist and improved chemistry with Leao suggest Milan’s attack may stabilize, while Balogun’s scoring run makes him attractive in anytime-scorer markets. Tillman’s return to the scoresheet boosts his appeal for attacking contributions. For internationals, consider player-goal markets and form-based prop bets rather than long-term outrights.
What to watch this week
Look for final fitness checks, tactical hints from training sessions, and how coaches deploy in-frame attackers.
Allegri: Italy ‘shouldn’t imitate other countries’
Player minutes and roles at club level this weekend will directly influence selection and in-match responsibilities for the Belgium friendly.
Theathleticuk
