Raymond James Stadium (Tampa) –You’re heading to the World Cup! and you I’m heading to the World Cup!
In a surprising turn of events, the U.S. men’s national team, fielding a heavily altered lineup, took charge early and triumphed over the two-time world champion Uruguay with a 5-1 score. Alex Freeman scored twice, supported by goals from three other contenders for the 2026 World Cup: Sebastian Berhalter, Diego Luna, and Tanner Tessman.
Key takeaways include:
1. Remarkable Win for a Shorthanded US Team
(Photo Credit: Howard Smith/ISI Photo/USSF/Getty Images)
Just two days after their 2-1 victory over Paraguay near Philadelphia, U.S. head coach Mauricio Pochettino altered nine players from his starting team, already missing several anticipated starters for the upcoming World Cup.
In contrast, Uruguay’s manager Marcelo Bielsa brought in eight regulars who had previously sat out in their goalless draw against Mexico.
With a prior Copa America match seeing Uruguay knock the Americans out early, many Florida fans might have feared a repeat. Instead, it turned out to be a different story.
Tensions flared for Uruguay at game’s end, culminating in a red card for midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur after a foul on Berhalter. The U.S. team has made significant strides since faltering earlier this year, finishing 2025 on an unbeaten streak and claiming three consecutive impressive victories.
This match marked a historic milestone for the USMNT, achieving five goals against a South American rival for the first time in its 112-year journey. This accomplishment should inspire Pochettino, his squad, and fans as they gear up for an exciting year ahead.
2. Alex Freeman’s Stellar Performance
(Photo by John Dorton/ISI Photo/USSF/Getty Images)
Alex Freeman, son of Super Bowl champion and Packers legend Antonio Freeman, had limited prior appearances in MLS but caught the eye with his performances at Orlando City, earning a spot in Pochettino’s Gold Cup roster this summer.
Standing at 6-foot-3, Freeman started all matches in the tournament, yet did not see action in the USMNT’s earlier fall roster, where European-based players returned. Nevertheless, he displayed no hesitation against notable teams like Australia, Ecuador, Japan, Paraguay, and South Korea, progressing towards Pochettino’s final selection in May.
If there were any doubts regarding Freeman’s World Cup inclusion, they have been dispelled. His combination of size, speed, and skill positions him strongly to potentially start, especially as Pochettino views veteran player Sergiño Dest more as an attacking option than a defender.
Freeman’s first goal was pivotal at 2-0, but his second goal showcased his talent, as he effortlessly outmaneuvered veteran defender Ronald Araujo, solidifying the home team’s advantage.
3. Berhalter’s Case for the World Cup
(Photo Credit: Howard Smith/ISI Photo/USSF/Getty Images)
Sebastian Berhalter, son of former World Cup coach Gregg Berhalter, had not made any international appearances as of June. However, his spectacular strike to open the scoring 17 minutes into the match might have solidified his place on the World Cup roster, especially given the team’s need for exceptional players amid injuries to key stars like Christian Pulisic.
At 24, he faces stiff competition in a central midfield position filled with talent, including Tyler Adams, Johnny Cardoso, and Weston McKennie, among others. With the U.S. team in limbo until late March, Berhalter’s impressive strike will give the coaching staff much to consider in the months ahead.
4. Opportunities for Aspiring Players
(Photo by Rich Story/Getty Images)
Ahead of this international window, it was widely known that several fringe players had one last opportunity, given the absence of regulars. There are only a couple of matches remaining before Pochettino determines the 26-player roster this summer.
Following strong performances from less experienced players, Pochettino may consider inviting many back for further evaluations in March, when the U.S. will face Portugal and Belgium—two top European teams—in Atlanta.
4 1/2. What Lies Ahead?
(Photo by Rich Story/Getty Images)
The 24 players currently in camp will disband Wednesday and return to their European clubs and MLS teams. With no national team games for the next four months, Pochettino and his staff, along with U.S. fans, will closely monitor American players’ performances domestically and abroad.
The competition for roster spots adds intrigue this winter, from matches in England and Europe to MLS playoffs, which will culminate in the start of the 2026 season in late February. Regardless, there will be ample chances for evaluation.
Doug McIntyre is a soccer reporter for FOX Sports. US Men’s and women’s national teams participating in the FIFA World Cup on five continents. Follow him @Written by Doug McIntyre.
Fan Take: This unexpected victory for the USMNT showcases the potential of emerging talents, giving fans hope for a brighter future in international soccer. As excitement builds for the World Cup, this game reaffirms that the U.S. can compete at the highest levels, suggesting a promising era for American soccer.
