The next wave of young American soccer stars look to make a statement as the USMNT opens their international break with a friendly against Peru in Orlando on Saturday.
All eyes are on 16-year old starboy Cavan Sullivan, but he's far from the only fresh face for the favored USA squad (68%).
The influx of new talent is one reason why my USA vs. Peru predictions and free picks for Saturday's friendly are backing a hectic and entertaining affair.
Percentages courtesy of Kalshi, one of the best prediction market apps. For help understanding Kalshi probabilities, see our odds calculator.
USA vs Peru predictions
My USA vs Peru top pick: Both Teams to Score — Yes (49% probability)
This is playable to 52%.
Four matches in 11 days for both nations means lots of rotation and lots of chaos. That can be fun for the fans, but a nightmare for defenders.
Pochettino has named a squad with 13 uncapped players, which means there will be a lack of cohesion in front of whichever mediocre keeper he puts in the XI.
On the flip side, Peru missed out on World Cup 2026 after finishing ninth in CONMEBOL qualifying, and have just one clean sheet in their last 10 outings. I expect more of the same.
My USA vs Peru Over/Under pick: Over 2.5 (54% probability)
I don't see a 1-1 final scoreline here, so it makes sense to back the Over in this spot up to 57%.
Peru's last three matches have featured 3+ goals, and they've conceded multiple goals in five of their eight post-qualification friendlies.
The Americans have seen that total breached in six of their last seven friendlies, and Pochettino's style lends itself to the Americans pressing for goals until the final whistle.
With the amount of attacking talent he has at hand, the USMNT could clear this hurdle on their own.
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USA vs Peru combo
Both Teams to Score — Yes
Over 2.5
Given the symmetry between the two predictions, combining them makes sense in this spot.
This should be an entertaining match with plenty of opportunities presented to the fresh faces for the American side, and I'm expecting a 3-1 win for Pochettino's side.
USA vs Peru odds
Odds courtesy of Kalshi.
How to watch USA vs Peru
| Location | Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando, FL |
| Date | Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026 |
| Time | 4:30 p.m. ET |
| TV | TNT |
| Weather | Temps in the mid-80s, 50% chance of rain throughout. |
USA vs Peru key injuries
USA: Christian Pulisic FW (Out), Folarin Balogun FW (Out), Weston Mckennie CM (Out), Ricardo Pepi ST (Out).
Peru: Andre Carrillo CM (Doubtful).
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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