USMNT Ligue 1 match day 7 recap: Reyna, Weah and Tessmann all contribute to goals

A second game removed from the international break, the six Americans abroad in France shined. Three of them contributed to four goals in some standout performances, all vying to make Mauricio Pochettino's November squad.

Gio Reyna, Strasbourg

Reyna was inserted back into Strasbourg’s starting XI for their clash with back-to-back Champions League winners PSG, and he immediately stepped up to the occasion, scoring the opening goal in the 17th minute.

While Strasbourg eventually lost the match 3-1, a second goal to his tally against one of the best clubs in the world reinforces Reyna’s strong start this season for both club and country. After starting all four matches for Pochettino over the break, Reyna is continuing his form into club play, and his confidence is growing. In a crowded USMNT midfield room, Reyna is making all the necessary strides to keep his name squarely in that mix.

Tim Weah, Olympique Marseille

Marseille’s captain returned from his one-match suspension and turned in his best performance of the season, assisting a pair of goals as Marseille downed Angers 5-2. Weah’s first came on a lovely weighted cross in the 37th minute that tied the score at 1-1, and his second in the 85th minute capped Marseille’s scoring. 

Weah was outstanding defensively as well, contributing two tackles, two clearances, three interceptions, and four recoveries. It was exactly the performance he’s been hoping for after a slow start and a USMNT camp snub. He'll certainly be a name to keep an eye on ahead of November's camp.

Tanner Tessmann, Lyon

Tessmann made his first league start of the season and responded with a stellar midfield performance. He played all 90 minutes and broke the deadlock with a thunderous header in the 36th minute to win Lyon the match 2-1.

The 25-year-old has made the most of his limited minutes this season, so it is exciting to see him play well when given an extended run. As Lyon continue to manage Ligue 1 and Europa League matches, Tessmann will be counted on more often moving forward.

While still on the outside looking into a stacked midfield room, performances like this should keep Tessmann on the USMNT radar.

Mack McKenzie, Toulouse

McKenzie did not get on the scoresheet himself, but he kept his opponent off it, helping Toulouse to a 3-0 victory against Le Mans. McKenzie won seven of nine duels and made 11 clearances, proving his capabilities as a veteran option.

Bryan Reynolds, Rennes

Reynolds was unable to match last week’s contribution as Rennes fell to Paris FC, 4-3. The 25-year-old started again at right back and made eight defensive contributions, including a clearance off the line. Reynolds missed one big chance when his 47th-minute shot was saved.

Folarin Balogun, AS Monaco

Balogun again could not make a meaningful impact for Monaco, playing 24 minutes off the bench. He did take three shots during his brief period of play: one on target, one off target, and one blocked. It is safe to say any momentum he was carrying from the World Cup is gone. Balogun is clearly out of favor in Monaco, and a likely candidate for a January transfer to a club that can better utilize his abilities.

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