TAMPA, Fla. — A year that started with significant challenges, uncertainties regarding the coach’s understanding of international soccer, and skepticism about the U.S. national team’s new players concluded on a high note with an impressive goal-filled display against a renowned rival. Seven months ahead of the World Cup, the United States triumphed over Uruguay with a score of 5-1, putting an end to their five-game losing streak.
While it was merely a friendly match, far from the intense atmosphere expected during next summer’s competition in North America, this performance brought joy to an American team still navigating its identity under coach Mauricio Pochettino, especially as they played without six possible starters. The victory at Raymond James Stadium was a significant morale booster.
“I’m really pleased with how the team is coming together,” Pochettino commented. “To qualify for the World Cup and compete with top teams, unity is essential; that’s how we should play.”
Sebastian Berhalter, who has been part of the national team for five months, opened the scoring with a brilliant goal. Defender Alex Freeman, also new to the national side, scored the next two goals, with Berhalter assisting the first. Diego Luna, a promising young midfielder who has thrived under Pochettino this year, netted a fourth goal before halftime.
Tanner Tessman, who came on as a substitute, added a goal in the second half, leading to the team’s highest scoring game against CONMEBOL. With this win, they matched their largest margin against a CONMEBOL opponent and extended their unbeaten streak against a Top 40 team since 2013.
“We showed the world our capabilities, especially after all the doubts surrounding the U.S.,” Freeman stated.
Following a 2-1 victory against Paraguay just three days prior, this latest win and performance boosts the squad’s confidence as they gear up for next summer’s big event. After concluding autumn friendlies with a record of 4-1-1 against World Cup competitors, the U.S. team will not regroup until March for challenging matches against Portugal and Belgium, with Pochettino set to announce his 26-man World Cup roster in May.
“I know I can perform at this level; it’s about mentality and DNA going into the game,” Luna reflected. “That’s the key shift since the start of the year. We have the talent, and now we need to bring the right mindset and effort consistently.”
As there are four months until the next training camp, Pochettino’s strategy for this gathering included starting nearly all his outfield players across two matches. On Tuesday, he made nine lineup changes, ensuring every outfield player had a chance to play, aside from striker Ricardo Pepi, who hasn’t had significant minutes with PSV Eindhoven.
Only goalkeeper Matt Freese and right back/winger Sergiño Dest remained from Saturday’s game. This was Dest’s first consecutive start for the U.S. since November 2023, as he graduallyreturns from an ACL injury sustained in 2024.
Among those starting on Tuesday to solidify their chances of making the World Cup roster were left-back John Tolkien, center-backs Mark McKenzie and Auston Trusty, as well as midfielders Berhalter, Aidan Morris, Timothy Tillman, and Luna.
Pochettino addressed claims that his team was lacking “regular” players like Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams, and Weston McKennie.
“I dislike that narrative—it’s disrespectful,” Pochettino asserted. “This is the American national team. Each decision about our lineup reflects that.”
He also pointed out that this match held special significance as he faced Marcelo Bielsa, his longtime mentor, who was instrumental in his early career. “He’s a crucial figure in my journey,” Pochettino shared.
The Americans seized control early, scoring through well-executed set pieces. Berhalter’s first goal came from a clever routine, where a free kick led to a stunning shot that found the net.
Just minutes later, Berhalter capitalized on a corner kick, allowing Freeman to head in for his first national team goal. Freeman scored again in the 31st minute, showcasing his skill and footwork to evade defenders.
Eleven minutes later, Luna added a fourth goal before halftime, marking the last time the U.S. scored four in a game against a non-CONCACAF opponent.
Uruguay managed to score just before halftime through an impressive bicycle kick from Giorgian de Arrasceta. The match took a turn in the 64th minute when Bentancur received a red card. Moments later, in the 68th minute, Tessman scored, marking his first international goal thanks to an assist from Gio Reyna.
Pochettino concluded, “The World Cup will be different, but we must prepare and believe in our potential.”
Fan Take: This match matters significantly for soccer fans as it signals a hopeful turnaround for the U.S. national team just months ahead of the World Cup. Their performance not only boosts confidence but also suggests a depth of talent that could make a real impact on the global stage.
