Zendejas' starring role has come at the right time for himself and the USMNT

"COLUMBUS, Ohio -- As Alejandro Zendejas stood in the postmatch mixed zone, one could barely tell how prominent a role he had played in the United States men's national team's 2-0 victory over Japan. He was almost serene as he described the night, sharing the field once again with Christian Pulisic -- whom he first crossed paths with as a 14-year-old at the old U.S. under-17 residency camp -- and delivering the critical first goal."

"He also knew he'd made the kind of impression on U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino that can catapult him into consideration for the U.S. World Cup roster. Not that he was letting it get to his head. "This is all God's timing," he said. "I'm very thankful for everything that's been playing out for me. I'm going to keep on doing my job, keep on working and hopefully I can get many more opportunities for sure.""

"The U.S. midfielder had long appeared to be on the outside looking in when it came to a potential FIFA World Cup roster for the USMNT. It didn't seem to matter how many stellar performances Zendejas put in for Liga MX powerhouse Club America. Even when he had previously suited up for the U.S., he delivered plenty of energy and skill, like in the 2-0 friendly defeat to Mexico last year."

Alejandro Zendejas delivered the first goal in the United States' 2-0 victory over Japan in Columbus, providing a decisive contribution. He shared the field with Christian Pulisic, a former under-17 residency camp teammate, and appeared composed after the match. Zendejas described the moment as God's timing and expressed gratitude while pledging to keep working for more opportunities. His strong performances for Club America and prior U.S. appearances had not guaranteed selection, but his recent training camp form caught manager Mauricio Pochettino's attention and may improve his World Cup roster prospects.

Read at ESPN.com