MLR champion Den Hoedt among four Chicago Hounds set to debut for USA against Portugal

Nathan Den Hoedt will make his USA Men’s Eagles debut against Portugal at Denver’s Dick Sporting Goods Park on July 4, just two weeks after the Australian-born lock helped the Chicago Hounds complete an undefeated Major League Rugby season with a 35-17 championship-winning victory over the California Legion on June 22.

Den Hoedt, who started all 10 of Chicago’s games this season and scored a try in the final, is one of four Hounds players named in the USA’s matchday 23 by head coach Scott Lawrence. The lock joins Jason Ramm in the second row, with the latter captaining the side.

Three other players are also in line for their first Eagles caps: USON Nevers winger Perry Mayo, Seattle Seawolves lock Mason Pedersen, and Anthen Rugby Carolina back-rower Julian Roberts. Lawrence has named a squad that draws heavily on domestic talent, with 17 of the 23 coming from Major League Rugby.

Chris Hilsenbeck of the Hounds starts at fly-half alongside California Legion scrum-half Ruben De Haas, while Tavite Lopeti is set to start at outside centre and Brandon Harvey provides Hounds cover from the bench. Stade Français prop Jack Iscaro packs down in a front row alongside hooker Kapeli Pifeleti and tighthead Tonga Kofe. Old Glory DC pair Benjamin Bonasso and Cory Daniel start at flanker, with Seattle Seawolves No. 8 Paddy Ryan completing the starting pack.

In the backs, Dominic Besag starts at inside centre, with Mayo and Rufus McLean on the wings and Mitch Wilson at fullback.

The fixture carries added significance beyond the rugby: the USA players will wear a commemorative patch marking the nation’s 250th anniversary. Lawrence acknowledged the dual weight of the occasion.

“July is always a shotgun start for us as we bring the team together from across the world. The men have been diligent in their detail of the basics we are rapidly putting in place,” Lawrence said. “The nation’s 250th is a special day and we are grateful to have the opportunity to represent our country’s rugby community on Saturday.”

The two sides last met two years ago, with the USA edging Portugal 21-17 in a close contest. This Nations Cup fixture marks the first time the USA have hosted the Portuguese on home soil.