In an exciting international friendly matchup, the USA Men's National Team (USMNT) has revealed its starting XI and lineup for their upcoming game against New Zealand. The match is set to take place on September 10, 2024, at the TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET and will be broadcasted on TNT, Universo, Max, Peacock, and Fútbol de Primera Radio.

Head coach Mikey Varas has made several changes to the lineup that faced Canada, with five players earning their place in the starting XI. Marlon Fossey, Mark McKenzie, Aidan Morris, Ricardo Pepi, and Matt Turner will take the field for the USMNT against New Zealand.

Tonight's starting XI will be led by defender Chris Richards, who has been given the captain's armband for the first time in his career. Richards, hailing from Alabama, becomes the first player from the state to captain the USMNT. This is a significant milestone for the talented defender.

Another notable player making his international debut tonight is defender Marlon Fossey. Celebrating his 26th birthday a day prior, Fossey becomes the 873rd player to represent the USMNT. His inclusion in the starting lineup adds an extra layer of excitement to the match.

Mark McKenzie will also be eager to make an impact as he earns his first cap of 2024. His last appearance for the USMNT was on September 12, 2023, against Oman, making his return to international football a memorable one.

The lineup also sees Kristoffer Lund starting back-to-back USMNT matches for the first time in his career, showcasing his consistency and ability to contribute to the team's performance. Additionally, Haji Wright will be playing in the same venue where he made his U.S. debut and scored his first international goal against Morocco on June 1, 2022.

Aidan Morris, who registered his first career assist in the previous match against Canada, is rewarded with his third start for the USMNT. His impressive performances have earned him a prominent role within the team.

Brenden Aaronson, Folarin Balogun, Kristoffer Lund, Aidan Morris, and Yunus Musah complete the youthful aspect of the starting XI, with all players aged 23 or younger. This showcases the USMNT's commitment to developing young talent and building a strong foundation for the future.

The USA has historically fared well against New Zealand, boasting a record of 2 wins, 0 losses, and 1 draw in previous encounters between the two nations. The USMNT will aim to continue this trend and deliver an inspired performance in front of their home crowd.

It is worth noting that six substitutions will be allowed during the game in three different moments, excluding halftime. The match will be officiated by Selvin Brown of Honduras, who previously oversaw the USMNT's 3-1 extra-time victory against Jamaica in the Concacaf Nations League semifinal on March 24, 2024.

Fans can catch all the action by tuning in to TNT, Universo, Max, Peacock, or Fútbol de Primera Radio. Alternatively, they can stay updated through the USMNT's social media channels, including the @USMNT account on X and Instagram, as well as U.S. Soccer on Facebook and The U.S. Soccer App.

As the excitement reaches its peak, both teams will be eager to showcase their skills and test their strategies on the field. With an impressive starting XI announced for the USMNT, fans can expect an entertaining and competitive friendly match against New Zealand.