Get ready for a thrilling showdown as the USA Men’s Eagles gear up for their final clash of 2025 against Romania—a match that could shape their future in the Rugby World Cup. But here’s where it gets controversial: With the World Rugby rankings on the line, this game isn’t just about pride; it’s about securing a better position for the 2027 Rugby World Cup pool draw. Will the Eagles soar to victory, or will Romania flip the script?**
On Saturday, November 15, the USA Men’s Eagles will face Romania in Bucharest, marking the third consecutive year these teams have battled in the Pershing Cup. This cross-continental rivalry has grown fierce, with both sides intimately familiar with each other’s strategies. The Eagles are determined to end their 2025 season on a high note, especially after a challenging year that included a heavy defeat to Scotland and a closer loss to Georgia. And this is the part most people miss: Despite recent setbacks, the team has shown glimpses of brilliance, particularly in their improved kicking accuracy and attacking pressure—elements they’ll need to harness against Romania.
The roster for this weekend’s match features some strategic adjustments. Captain Jason Damm returns to the No. 8 position, while Tonga Kofe steps up for his first November start at Prop. Cory Daniel, Mitch Wilson, and Maliu Niuafe also rejoin the 23-man squad, bringing fresh energy to the field. Notably, the absence of Pono Davis and Brandon Harvey due to injuries has reshuffled the lineup, but the team remains confident in their depth.
Here’s the bold truth: The Eagles sit just a few spots above Romania in the World Rugby rankings, making this match a must-win for both sides. A victory in Bucharest wouldn’t just be a morale boost; it would significantly impact their seeding for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. But Romania won’t go down without a fight, and their home-field advantage could be a game-changer. What do you think? Can the Eagles secure the win, or will Romania pull off an upset?
Catch all the action live on Paramount+ at 10:00am ET on Saturday, November 15. Below is the full USA Men’s Eagles roster and coaching staff for this pivotal match:
USA Men’s Eagles Roster | USA vs Romania
1. Ezekiel Lindenmuth – Unattached
2. Kaleb Geiger – New England Free Jacks
3. Tonga Kofe – Leicester Tigers
4. Tevita Naqali – Old Glory DC
5. Marno Redelinghuys – Unattached
6. Paddy Ryan – Unattached
7. Cory Daniel – Old Glory DC
8. Jason Damm (C) – CA Legion
9. Ruben de Haas – Unattached
10. Luke Carty – Anthem Rugby Carolina
11. Rufus McLean – Unattached
12. Tavite Lopeti – Chicago Hounds
13. Dominic Besag – Saint Mary’s College
14. Mark O’Keefe – Chicago Hounds
15. Toby Fricker – Bristol Bears
16. Mikey Sosene-Feagai – CA Legion
17. Payton Telea-Ilalio – Unattached
18. Maliu Niuafe – CA Legion
19. Nafi Ma’afu – Montauban (FRA)
20. Viliami Helu – Unattached
21. Makeen Alikhan – Anthem Rugby Carolina
22. Mitch Wilson – New England Free Jacks
23. Michael Baska – Chicago Hounds
USA Men’s Eagles Autumn Internationals Coaches & Staff
- Scott Lawrence – Head Coach & GM
- Nick Easter – Assistant Coach (Defense)
- Steve Brett – Assistant Coach (Attack & Skills)
- Agustin Cavalieri – Assistant Coach (Forwards)
- Blake Bradford – Assistant Coach (Scrum)
- Jimmy Harrison – Analyst
- Declan Oorloff – Analyst
- Rodolfo Broggi – Athletic Performance Coach
- Matoko Noudehou – Strength and Conditioning
- Michael Sheridan – Lead Athletic Trainer
- Delaney Cassidy – Assistant Athletic Trainer
- Willie Berlanga – Massage Therapist
- Matthew Schmitz – Team Doctor (Scotland & Georgia)
- Marc Kowalsky – Team Doctor (Romania)
- Nick Colling – Team Manager
USA Men’s Eagles Autumn Internationals Results
- Scotland vs USA: (L) 85-0 – Scottish Gas Murrayfield, Edinburgh, SCO
- Georgia vs USA: (L) 43-30 – Adjarabet Arena, Batumi, GEO
- Romania vs USA: Nov 15, 10:00am ET – Arcul du Triumf, Bucharest, ROM (Watch LIVE on Paramount+)
This match isn’t just another game—it’s a pivotal moment for the USA Men’s Eagles. Will they rise to the occasion, or will Romania spoil their plans? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
