United States men’s national team midfielder Johnny Cardoso played a key role in Real Betis’ 2-1 upset victory against Real Madrid on Saturday. The American headed in an equalizer from close range in the first half.

With Madrid leading 1-0 early in the first half, Johnny chose perhaps the best time to score his first LaLiga goal of the season. In the 34th minute a Betis corner was swung into the box and a wide-open Johnny was there to smash in the equalizer.

Johnny Cardoso goal vs Real Madrid

Real Betis forward Antony received great news on Wednesday when he learned he will be eligible for his side’s match vs. Real Madrid on Saturday after winning a red card appeal. 

Antony was sent off in his last LaLiga game vs. Getafe with a straight red card following a tackle on Getafe's Juan Iglesias. Betis appealed to the Spanish Football Federation and won, meaning Antony is cleared to face off against Los Blancos.

Here was the moment Antony learned the news.

Antony reaction to red card overturned

Welcome to this week’s edition of USMNT Abroad, where we bring you the latest updates on American soccer players making waves across Europe. 

From standout performances to key transfers, rumors and injury reports, The18 has got you covered with all the action involving U.S. men’s national team players in Europe’s top leagues. 

C’mon, you yanks!

USMNT Abroad this weekend: The latest on American players in Europe

Antonee Robinson (Fulham)

Fans have uncovered old tweets from Real Madrid's Dani Ceballos and Jude Bellingham that have shown their soft side for FC Barcelona prior to becoming UEFA Champions League winners with Los Blancos.

The tweets, posted long before both players became key figures at the Bernabéu, show the two players expressing strong opinions that now seem to conflict with their current affiliations.

We could see Johnny play in the Champions League next season. And not with Real Betis.

USMNT's Johnny Cardoso has been in incredible club form since signing for LaLiga’s Real Betis last winter, making himself an undisputed starter for the Spanish club since his arrival in January and quickly becoming a fan-favorite in Sevilla.

Johnny Cardoso had a solid debut performance for Real Betis in their 4-2 LaLiga loss against FC Barcelona this Sunday at the Estadio Villamarín.

The 22-year-old American was included in the Seville club’s starting XI without any prior minutes on the pitch for Betis since signing for the club last December.

LaLiga club Real Betis officially announced the transfer of United States men’s national team midfielder Johnny Cardoso on Wednesday. 

The 22-year-old defensive midfielder became a regular starter for Brazilian club Internacional where he made 144 appearances. Cardoso mostly played as a defensive midfielder but still managed to tally seven goals and five assists with Internacional.

Real Betis paid $6.3 million for the American according to ESPN as Cardoso signed a five-year contract.

Johnny Cardoso Real Betis transfer