USMNT's Richy Ledezma impresses, Malik Tillman struggles, Ricardo Pepi sees limited action as PSV drop points to AZ in Eredivisie

PSV Eindhoven's Eredivisie lead narrowed to four points after a 2-2 draw with AZ Alkmaar Saturday, a match that featured three USMNT players - Malik Tillman, Richy Ledezma, and Ricardo Pepi.

Once comfortably ahead by 10 points at the top of the table, PSV struggled to regain momentum in their first match following the league's winter break. Mayckel Lahdo opened the scoring for AZ in the 41st minute. The second half included an exchange of goals, with PSV equalizing through a superb build-up finished by Luuk de Jong in the 68th minute.

AZ responded six minutes later, as Mexx Meerdink put the visitors back in front and threatened PSV’s remarkable 50-game unbeaten streak at home. However, De Jong came to the rescue once again, converting an 85th-minute penalty to secure a draw and extend PSV's streak to 51 matches.

Ledezma was arguably PSV's second-best player of the match as he was a playmaking force at full-back for the Dutch team. Ledezma, who was named to Eredivisie's December Team of the Month, completed 104 passes at an 87.5 percent rate and defensively, had three clearances, four tackles, and one blocked shot. It was an all-around impressive showing.

The same couldn't be said for Tillman. PSV's star American attacking midfielder had a largely quiet game, making one key pass, only completing 33 passes at a 75 percent clip and taking just one shot.

Tillman's other national teammate Pepi saw limited action at just 11 minutes, continuing a trend of reduced playing time since rumors emerged about a potential transfer to the Premier League. He was brought on as PSV were chasing an equalizer. Other reports have pointed to a potential stay for Pepi, as the Eredivisie leaders have offered him a new contract.

Pepi isn't the only player linked with a move away from PSV as Ledezma is also being rumored to have drawn interest from Liga MX defending champions Club America.

Similar to Pepi, Ledezma has been reportedly offered a new deal by PSV.

Tillman, Pepi and Ledezma will look to get PSV back to winning ways when they play in a Dutch Cup matchup against Excelsior Rotterdam on Jan. 14.