Jozy Altidore scored twice in a 2-1 comeback win against Peru as the striker made his return to the United States national team in a friendly at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C.
Altidore earned the U.S. a penalty kick in the 59th minute. His attempt from the spot was denied by Peru goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, but the rebound went right back to Altidore, allowing him to score on the put back.
Nine minutes later, Altidore was once again in the right place at the right time, as a deflected shot by Gyasi Zardes fell right to the No. 17's feet and he calmly put it away.
Peru's Daniel Chavez gave his team the lead in the 20th minute when his shot from the top of the penalty area deflected off Omar Gonzalez and went up and over the outstretched arm of U.S. goalkeeper Brad Guzan to give his team a 1-0 lead.
After that, Peru dominated possession and had the U.S. on the back foot in its defensive third, with the Americans only having a few counter-attacking chances for the next 15 minutes.
As the first half wound down, the U.S. had a flurry of chances with Jermaine Jones, who was playing his first game back after an injury absence, forcing a save by Peru goalkeeper Gallese and John Brooks missing from close range.
Altidore, who made his return to the U.S. team after not playing in the knockout rounds of the Gold Cup, broke in on goal in the 42nd minute but a heavy touch spoiled his breakaway chance. On the ensuing corner kick, Gonzalez almost headed home, but the ball sailed wide of the right post.
Altidore wore the captain's armband with Michael Bradley sitting out the friendly in order to play for his club Toronto FC over the weekend.
The United States face Brazil in another friendly on Sept. 8 at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts (8:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2 /WatchESPN).