Maurice Edu Earns First USMNT Cap for Philadelphia Union Player

Maurice Edu became the first Philadelphia Union player to earn a USMNT cap on Wednesday night when the United States drew with rival Mexico 2-2. The US dominated the first half with TFC's Michael Bradley opening the scoring with a brilliant corner kick goal. He also assisted on the 2nd goal of the half off a gorgeous header to the diving foot of the San Jose Earthquake's Chris Wondolowski. The US was near perfect in the first half and it appeared they would cruise to an easy victory.

But the 2nd half was entirely different as Mexico was constantly pressuring the US defense and finding dangerous space. LA Galaxy center back Omar Gonzalez lapsed on both goals by El Tri which led to a 2-2 game. Maurice Edu entered for RSL's Kyle Beckerman in the 72nd minute of the tie game.

Early on Maurice was shaky, taking a shot that soared well above the Mexican goal. But when sitting just above the back four Edu showed the effective presence he can be. Maurice completed all 11 of his passes, forced a turnover and cleared a ball that was dangerously bouncing around the box.

Were these minutes enough to earn him a call up to the 30 man roster in early May? Edu looks to be behind Jermaine Jones and Kyle Beckerman in the defensive midfielder pecking order. Klinsmann may be intrigued by Edu's versatility and experience but we'll have to wait a month before we know which way the coach is leaning.

Whatever happens next, it's a nice moment for the Philadelphia Union and a testament to the quality of the new players that have been brought in this year.