Sergino Dest, the USMNT's presumptive starter at right back in the 2026 World Cup, returned from a hamstring injury Saturday afternoon, playing 30 minutes in PSV Eindhoven's 2-2 draw with Ajax. The defender's return follows a period of injury layoff. It was also a good day for PSV's American unit, as Ricardo Pepi got on the scoresheet.

Dest had been out since March 7 after limping off during PSV's 2-1 win over AZ Alkmaar. His comeback in the Eredivisie was a significant moment for both the club and the player, who has worked hard on his recovery.

The right-back has rather struggled with injuries for nearly two years. He sustained a torn ACL in April 2024 and needed 11 months to fully recover. The American established himself on PSV's side in the 2025-26 season but seemed to put his World Cup hopes in danger after pulling up with a left hamstring injury in March.

Dest insisted after the game that he would be back before the end of the season, and on Saturday, he made good on that promise. His determination to return was clearly visible and was rewarded with playing time.

Dest came on in the 60th minute and turned in a solid cameo for the Eredivisie champions. In half an hour, he won two out of three ground duels, completed all but one of his passes, and looked in good form despite being out for so long.

There was also good news for the USMNT in forward areas. Ricardo Pepi, who has had injury issues of his own, made an immediate impact. The American started and needed just 30 seconds to get on the scoresheet. He provided a proper poacher's goal – ghosting in at the back post and heading home off a well-worked long throw routine.

This match showcased the resilience of PSV Eindhoven's American players and offers a positive outlook for both the club and the US national team, with an eye on future matches and the 2026 World Cup.