USMNT Looks Strong Ahead of World Cup

Earlier this month the U.S. Men’s National Team wrapped up September camp with a statement win: a confident 2-0 victory over Japan in front of a roaring crowd at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio. With just four training camps left before the U.S. co-hosts the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this window wasn’t just another set of friendlies. It was an audition—and several players made their mark.

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino came away with a clearer sense of his player pool after testing the team against two World Cup-caliber opponents, Japan and Korea Republic. Here’s what stood out from an electric week that showed the USMNT is not only building for now but building something special for the future.

🌟 Breakout Performances Steal the Show

This camp was billed as the “last big look” before World Cup roster decisions start taking shape—and a few names made sure they’d be in that conversation. Alex Zendejas had his coming-out party, scoring the opener against Japan and earning Man of the Match honors in just his first National Team start under Pochettino. His energy, creativity, and composure were everything you’d want from a winger fighting for a World Cup spot.

Then there was Folarin Balogun, who picked up right where he left off after a summer of solid club form. The forward created chances in both matches and scored a clinical second goal in the 2-0 win, showing he’s ready to be a difference-maker up top. And it wasn’t just the scorers. Tristan Blackmon returned to the squad for the first time since 2021 and started both matches, while Cristian Roldan looked sharp in his first appearances since 2023. Depth was the theme of the week, and the competition is heating up.

🧤 Matt Freese Keeps the Door Shut

Goalkeeper Matt Freese continues to rise as one of the biggest storylines of 2025. After anchoring the U.S. through the Gold Cup this summer, he carried that momentum straight into September. Freese played every minute of both matches, posting a clean sheet against Japan and six saves, tying his international career high. The NYCFC keeper’s quick reflexes and composure under pressure have fans wondering if he might just be the answer in goal heading into 2026.

⚙️ Pochettino Experiments & It Works

For the first time in his 18 matches as head coach, Pochettino switched things up, rolling out a 3-4-3 formation against Japan. The change gave the U.S. a balanced look: three strong defenders in Ream, Richards, and Blackmon, and wingbacks Max Arfsten and Alex Freeman pushing high into midfield.

The result? More control, more attacking flow, and another assist for Arfsten, who set up the game-winning goal. It’s clear Pochettino is fine-tuning not just his lineup, but his tactical identity—one that could make the U.S. a dangerous, adaptable team next summer.

💪 Midfield Depth Is No Longer a Question

If there was one takeaway from this camp, it’s that the U.S. midfield is deeper than ever. Seven midfielders earned call-ups, and each brought something different. Tyler Adams led as expected, while Sebastian Berhalter, Diego Luna, and Jack McGlynn added youthful spark. McGlynn even came inches away from a highlight-reel goal, his shot bouncing off the underside of the crossbar. And once again, Arfsten proved his versatility, playing both sides of the ball and assisting in the attack. With several under-25 players pushing for spots, the next generation of midfield talent looks ready for the spotlight.

🚀 Eyes on 2026

The September camp wasn’t just about the scoreline; it was about momentum, competition, and clarity. With a home World Cup on the horizon, every training session and friendly carries extra weight. If this camp proved anything, it’s that the U.S. is growing more confident, more cohesive, and more complete. Pochettino’s team isn’t just preparing to host—they’re preparing to make noise on the world stage.