El Paso's Soccer Stars: A World Cup Perspective
Key Players Shift to Reserve Roles for Knockout Stage
The United States Men's National Team is preparing for its Round of 32 clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with two talents from El Paso, Ricardo Pepi and Alejandro Zendejas, projected to begin the match as substitutes. This decision comes as the team's primary offensive weapon, Christian Pulisic, has fully recovered from a leg injury and is expected to reclaim his starting position.
Pepi's Path to the Bench: Impact of Pulisic's Return
Ricardo Pepi, a 23-year-old forward, had stepped up admirably in the previous two group stage encounters, filling in for the injured Pulisic. His performances were noted, but with the star player's return to full fitness, the coaching staff, led by Mauricio Pochettino, aims to deploy a first-choice lineup, placing Pepi in a reserve role. Pepi's journey through the FC Dallas Academy, his stint with FC Augsburg, and his impactful season with PSV Eindhoven, where he netted 16 goals in 26 appearances, demonstrate his considerable talent. Despite being overlooked for the 2022 World Cup, he has made his mark in this tournament and contributed an assist in recent friendlies.
Zendejas' World Cup Opportunity and Career Ascent
Alejandro Zendejas, 28, is another El Paso product whose World Cup journey has seen him earn his first minutes as a second-half substitute against Turkiye, after not featuring in the initial group stage games. Zendejas' career began on the West Side of El Paso, progressing through the FC Dallas Academy and becoming the youngest player in MLS history to debut for the club at 17. His career includes significant time in Mexico's Liga MX with Guadalajara Chivas and Necaxa, before settling with Club America. This year, he has recorded six goals and four assists in 12 matches for Club America, and his single recent USMNT friendly appearance was against Senegal on May 31st.
