USMNT Star Malik Tillman Makes Bundesliga History with Spectacular Goal-Assist Performance
Malik Tillman made history as the first United States men's national team player in three years to both score and provide an assist in a Bundesliga match.
The previous USMNT player to achieve a goal and assist in Germany's premier league was Jordan Pefok on Aug. 20, 2022. The former Union Berlin striker contributed two goal involvements to secure a 2–1 victory over RB Leipzig.
During an evening that showcased Tillman's finest Bundesliga display to date, he demonstrated to Mauricio Pochettino that he possesses the ability to make a significant impact for the United States in the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Tillman was absent from the November international window due to injury.
Following his summer transfer to Bayer Leverkusen after an impressive period with PSV Eindhoven, Tillman is adapting well to his new surroundings. He has now recorded three goals and one assist across 10 matches with his current team.
The 23-year-old former Bayern Munich academy graduate also became only the fifth USMNT player ever to achieve both a goal and assist in a single Bundesliga fixture.
USMNT Players to Register a Goal and Assist in a Bundesliga Match
Player | Club | Opponent | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
Malik Tillman | Bayer Leverkusen | Wolfsburg | Nov. 22, 2025 |
Jordan Pefok | Union Berlin | RB Leipzig | Aug. 20, 022 |
Matthew Hope | Schalke 04 | Eintracht Frankfurt | May 15, 2021 |
Christian Pulisic | Borussia Dortmund | Bayer Leverkusen | March 4, 2017 |
Timothy Chandler | FC Nürnberg | VfB Stuttgart | Feb. 12, 2011 |
Malik Tillman's Performance vs. Wolfsburg
The USMNT midfielder was energetic and impactful from the opening whistle.
Tillman showed excellent positioning when he redirected an Alejandro Grimaldo delivery into Jonas Hofmann's path, who converted the match's first goal within 10 minutes.
With his team already holding a two-goal advantage, Tillman found himself one-on-one with the keeper just after the hour mark, calmly slotting home while sending Wolfsburg's goalkeeper in the wrong direction.
The American international concluded the match with a 92% pass completion rate during his 64-minute appearance. It was a comprehensive display that will enhance his confidence during the early stages of his Leverkusen journey.