While Philadelphia Union clashed with Chicago Fire FC in Clearwater, Florida in a closed-door scrimmage, 2,500 miles west the homegrown duo of Brenden Aaronson and Mark McKenzie were taking the next step in their international careers with their first appearances for the United States Men's National Team.
Aaronson started the match in the midfield, threading a deadly pass into the box that nearly resulted in the USMNT's opening goal. The Medford, New Jersey, native ended up playing 66 minutes against Costa Rica and left a lasting impression according to ESPN's commentator Brian Dunseth.
"It’s a big step from your first year in Major League Soccer to the U.