Malik Tillman appears to be right on the bubble for the U.S. national team World Cup roster.
USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter called Tillman out after naming him to his September roster, saying the 20-year-old “needs to do better. He needs to increase his level.”
Tillman didn’t make much of an impact for the U.S. in two September substitute appearances, and has been mostly used as a reserve after returning to Rangers.
That’s why Sunday’s stunning solo goal could be so important for Tillman.
Making his first league start since September 3, Tillman picked the ball up near midfield against Motherwell and proceeded to dribble right through several defenders before clipping a finish over the goalkeeper for the game’s opening goal.
Rangers would go on to win 2-1, picking up three vital points that saw them move to within two points of first-place Celtic in the table.
It was also a crucial confidence-booster after a 7-1 midweek thrashing at the hands of Liverpool in the Champions League, the fourth group-stage defeat in a row for the Scottish side.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Tillman admitted that his goal would be a major boost to his and his team’s mental state.
“The last few weeks were a bit tough,” Tillman said. “[We] didn’t win in the Champions League and I think it’s an extreme boost for me. We have to keep looking forward and hope we win the next few games as well.”
Watch Tillman’s solo goal vs. Motherwell
Malik Tilman with a supreme individual effort! 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/h5bGXICFaF
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) October 16, 2022
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