Brenden Aaronson wastes his chance! USMNT midfielder fails to capitalize on first start in a month as Union Berlin slip to Champions League defeat to Napoli

Despite a dominant first 45 minutes, including an outstanding performance from Chelsea loanee David Fofana, Union Berlin failed to take anything away from their third match of the group stage. Pacey forward Sheraldo Becker combined with Fofana numerous times, but the home side struggled to get any sort of final touch onto the ball. They lacked a threat everywhere but the oppositions box.

Napoli, meanwhile, excelled in the second half, mainly due to the brilliant performance of winger Khvicha Kvaratshkelia, who assisted their lone goal of the night midway through the half. The Georgian winger dribbled along the endline and slid the ball to striker Giacomo Raspadori on top of the six-yard box, where the Italian fired home.

One goal, one shot on target, one real opportunity. It wasn't flashy or spectacular from the Italian side, but their genuine only chance was all they needed, and they took it.

This was Aaronson's first start since September 23, and that comes with Berlin winless in all competitions in nine matches - all consecutive losses. The fact that he's struggled for minutes in a team that's in such poor form is worrisome. However, he wasn't necessarily poor on the night. He just didn't stand out.

As for Berlin, this is their third-straight Champions League match where they arguably deserved a result. Two stoppage-time goals conceded in their opening two matches saw them come into their tie against Napoli point-less in the competition, and the Serie A side capitalized on their only real opportunity of the match.

For Berlin, this was their chance to get back into the group, especially considering the Italian side were without star forward Victor Osimhen.

Aaronson getting the start for Berlin is about as rewarding as possible for the USMNT. Inconsistent minutes plagued the midfielder during September, but he appears to be back in the fold as the Bundesliga side look to get their European campaign back on track.

Having played in both international friendlies for Gregg Berhalter's side earlier this month, Aaronson looks hungry for more minutes, which he now seems to be getting. If the 23-year-old can get consistent minutes for Berlin, there's a chance Berhalter throws him back into the starting rotation for the USMNT.

Brenden Aaronson (5/10): Aaronson had a bright first 45 minutes - as did the entire Berlin team. However, they missed the final link into their attack, which is an area where Aaronson could do more.

Aaronson and Berlin return to Bundesliga action on the weekend, with a road trip to Werder Bremen as they look to earn their first win in all competitions since August 26.