Barcelona loanee makes national team breakthrough with crucial clean sheet | OneFootball

Barcelona loanee Diego Kochen has taken another significant step in his development after making his first start for the United States and keeping a clean sheet in a 3-0 victory over Mexico.

The 20-year-old goalkeeper, currently developing at Danish club Lyngby, had previously been handed his senior international debut against Peru, playing the second half of that match. 

He was then trusted from the start against Mexico and produced a performance that strengthened his case for more opportunities with the national team.

Kochen makes first USMNT start

Kochen had been part of the United States setup before without getting onto the pitch, making his first appearance against Peru particularly significant. 

The match also carried personal meaning as Peru is the country where his mother was born.

His opportunity against Mexico was even bigger, and he responded with a clean sheet as the US secured a 3-0 win, where he produced an important save during the game.

Notably, one of the goalscorers was Cavan Sullivan, the highly rated 17-year-old who has previously been linked with Barcelona.

“It’s a great honour to represent this country in a stadium like this. And against a rival, our rival, with a very good coach and very high-quality players. 

“I’m very grateful to the team, the staff, and the manager for always believing in me,” he said after the match.

Rafa Marquez watches Barcelona academy product

There was another Barcelona connection on the night. Rafa Marquez was on the opposing bench, with the former Barça coach having given Kochen his debut for Barça Atlètic.

Kochen’s performance also drew attention to one of the strongest parts of his goalkeeping profile, which is his ability with the ball at his feet.

That quality was developed during his time at La Masia and is highly valued by US coach Mauricio Pochettino. His composure in possession has helped Kochen stand out as he continues his progression.

Lyngby loan accelerating Kochen’s development

Kochen moved to Lyngby on loan to gain regular senior experience in Denmark, and the move has already coincided with a sharp rise in his profile.

His market value has quadrupled in less than a year to €2 million, while Lyngby have an option to sign him permanently for around €1.5m.

For now, Kochen remains focused on earning more opportunities with the United States. 

His first start and clean sheet against Mexico represent an important milestone, but they could also be the beginning of a much bigger international role.