Ricardo Pepi’s surge at PSV — 11 goals in 22 games, including six in his last seven — makes him a frontrunner for the USMNT No.9 role ahead of the World Cup. Punters might consider him as an Anytime Goalscorer or back the USA’s attacking markets to improve if he starts, with added value on first-half scoring and “USA to score” lines.
Ricardo Pepi staking his claim as the USMNT No.9
With six months until the World Cup, the United States’ center-forward spot is wide open. Ricardo Pepi has turned a tentative start in Europe into momentum at PSV, where he’s become a reliable finisher and a potential answer to Mauricio Pochettino’s striking dilemma. From MLS prospect to European goalscorer, Pepi’s recent form puts him squarely in the conversation to lead the line for the hosts.
Club form and big-game pedigree
Explosive scoring run
Pepi has 11 goals in 22 appearances for PSV, scoring six times in his last seven matches. He has also delivered in marquee moments over the past year, finding the net against top sides and showing he can perform under pressure.
Playing style and influence
He combines a sharp finishing instinct with intelligent movement, acting as both a direct threat in the box and a focal point for teammates. As a deputy to an established No.9, Pepi has demonstrated the ability to step up and lead the attack when called upon.
Key strengths
Off-the-ball movement
Blistering pace (top speed recorded at 34.1 km/h) and shrewd positional timing make him a constant threat in behind defenses.
Hold-up and combination play
Improved physicality allows him to receive and protect the ball with his back to goal, while his link-up play — especially quick one-twos — creates chances for teammates.
Work-rate and efficiency
Pepi presses effectively and recovers possession (about 1.9 ball recoveries per game in the Eredivisie). He’s also extremely efficient in minutes-to-goal (a goal every ~51 minutes) and leads his side for shots on target per 90 (1.2).
Areas to develop
Two-footedness
Of 31 Eredivisie shots, 22 came from his right foot and only 3 from his left. Greater proficiency with the weaker foot would make him harder to defend.
Ground duels and aerial game
He ranks low for ground duels won (21) and overall ground duel success (around 38.2%), and he’s in the bottom 20% for aerial duels won (7) with a 41.2% success rate. Improving duel success and timing in the air would broaden his scoring channels.
Tactical fit for the USMNT and World Cup outlook
Pepi’s blend of pace, positional IQ and finishing suits a counter-attacking or transition-minded front line. If Pochettino opts for a central striker who can both finish and create space for wide runners, Pepi’s current form makes him a viable starter — potentially tipping the US attack toward a more direct, penalty-area-focused threat.
Betting implications
Pepi’s hot streak makes him a tempting pick for anytime-goalscorer markets at both club and international level. If he starts for the US, markets like “first-half scorer,” “anytime scorer” and boosted odds on the USA finding the net look more attractive.
Caution: his developmental gaps (weak-foot reliance and duel metrics) mean long-term value bets on him as the tournament’s top scorer carry risk.
Ricardo Pepi has the form and profile to alter the USMNT’s attacking outlook; whether he can translate Eredivisie efficiency into consistent international dominance will determine both his starting fate and his appeal to bettors.
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