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Fox News
2 days ago
- Sport
- Fox News
Alexi Lalas' Best U.S. XI: Why Turner still starts in goal over Freese
Trying to build the best 11-man squad for a full-strength U.S. men's national team is an interesting little exercise — and one that coach Mauricio Pochettino is hoping he'll have the opportunity to do in the next international window. We're coming off of a Gold Cup where a lot of people were excited, or at least enticed, to be back in the U.S. men's national team tent, and with that excitement comes curiosity about who will start for the United States at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Let's start in goal. There's been so much talk about Matt Freese, who had a viral moment with his penalty saves against Costa Rica in the Gold Cup quarterfinals. But other than that, he didn't stand on his head in any of the games (though, to be fair, he wasn't challenged in a lot of the games). In the Mexico game, I don't think he could have done anything, and he was dependable other than the mistake that he made in the group stage. But you need to more than dependable — you need to have that moment where you establish yourself. I still think he'll get called in, but I also think that, maybe, Matt Turner's sitting on the side like, 'Yeah, how do you like me now?' If there was a game tomorrow, I'd go with Matt Turner in goal, as much as it pains me. But I still think there's a competition. The wild card is Zack Steffen, who I think, if/ when healthy, will legitimately challenge for that goalkeeper position. For now, it's still Matt Turner's to lose. Here's my full post-Gold Cup XI for the United States: Alexi Lalas is a soccer analyst for FOX Sports and host of "Alexi Lalas' State of the Union Podcast." He represented the USMNT at the 1994 FIFA World Cup and had a nine-year professional career. In 2006, he became the president of the LA Galaxy and helped bring David Beckham to Major League Soccer.
NBC Sports
5 days ago
- Sport
- NBC Sports
USMNT squad projections for the 2026 World Cup — Who's in? Who's out?
The United States men's national team will hope that one year from today it will be discussing its recent World Cup quarterfinal appearance, hopefully with eyes on the semifinal stage set for July 14 and 15 of 2026. Yep. That soon. MORE — Latest Premier League transfers, Summer 2025 This was expected to be a huge summer of preparation but it turned into more of a depth test. The Club World Cup kept several players with their clubs, others were suffering from long-term injuries, and the program's most important player opted to take the summer away from the team. Whether you agreed with Christian Pulisic's decision or were infuriated by it, this was decidedly not the first full-strength USMNT at the Gold Cup in decades. It was a B- or even B-minus team. So what do we know about next summer's World Cup roster under Mauricio Pochettino. Some roster spots were likely earned (Matt Freese) while others were cemented, tattooed, or written in permanent marker (Malik Tillman). Let's update our projections with an eye for variables and eventually... a Starting XI. How many USMNT roster spots are nailed-on for the World Cup? Given the above, the educated guess would be that there are fewer roster spots available for next summer than there were before this summer's action began for the USMNT. But has the number changed that much? Sure a bunch of players really impressed at the Gold Cup, but some of the players left out of the squad were truly surprises and others like Johnny Cardoso played a lot less than expected under Pochettino. The shallow nature of the goalkeeping pool without a Tim Howard or Kasey Keller in sight left the competition for the starting spot wide open, but it's difficult to see either Gold Cup starter Matt Freese or World Cup-experienced keeper Matt Turner missing out on the World Cup. Antonee Robinson and Christian Pulisic are no-brainers despite missing out this summer, while Chris Richards, Tim Ream, and Malik Tillman locked down their places this summer. Tyler Adams is a guaranteed roster man, too, while Timothy Weah, Folarin Balogun, and Sergino Dest are very likely, too. There's a risk of recency bias, but Pochettino's Gold Cup trust of Patrick Agyemang and Luca de la Torre bode well for them. Others are close. The biggest question marks? Center back #4 and the final slots for center midfield and center forward. USMNT squad projection for 2026 World Cup Goalkeepers (3) The third spot after Turner and Freese feels like a real wild card. Zack Steffen has experience and is playing well for Colorado, while Ethan Horvath and Sean Johnson also boast experience. A young buck could also be called in to earn experience behind Turner and Freese, and Gaga Slonina, Diego Kochen, Gavin Beavers, or Chris Brady could fit the bill. Projection: Matt Turner (Nottingham Forest), Matt Freese (New York City FC), Gaga Slonina (Chelsea) Defenders (8) The guess here might normally be four center backs and four full backs, but the midfield and forward pools' versatility especially at right back (Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, Timothy Weah) could lend an extra center back place to the group. Antonee Robinson, Chris Richards, and Tim Ream are nailed-on right now, and a healthy Sergino Dest sure would feel like a certainty. Projection: Chris Richards (Crystal Palace), Antonee Robinson (Fulham), Tim Ream (Charlotte FC), Sergino Dest (PSV Eindhoven), Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew), Cameron Carter-Vickers (Celtic), Joe Scally (Borussia Monchengladbach), Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati) Midfielders (7) Tillman locked up a place in the 26 and it would almost be surprising if he wasn't starting in the midfield. Adams will be there, too. Cardoso's summer playing time might breed questions about his starting potential, but his transferring to Atletico Madrid and somehow falling out of the 26 would be wild. Pochettino's had some comments that seemed to aim criticism toward Weston McKennie types, but he'll be there. Projection: Malik Tillman (PSV Eindhoven), Tyler Adams (Bournemouth), Weston McKennie (Juventus), Johnny Cardoso (Real Betis), Luca de la Torre (San Diego FC), Yunus Musah (AC Milan), Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps) Forwards (9) Pulisic, Weah, and Luna might be billed as midfielders elsewhere but we're counting the two wingers along with center forwards in this positional group. Balogun and Agyemang will have every chance to stand tall atop the XI. There's going to be a surprise here, and while his name wouldn't have counted as a shock about a year ago, look for Kevin Paredes of Wolfsburg's return to health as an X-factor. Projection: Christian Pulisic (AC Milan), Folarin Balogun (Monaco), Timothy Weah (Juventus), Patrick Agyemang (Charlotte FC), Diego Luna (Real Salt Lake), Ricardo Pepi (PSV Eindhoven), Kevin Paredes (Wolfsburg), Jack McGlynn (Philadelphia Union), Sargent, Wright, Reyna, Tessmann, Busio, Fossey, Wiley, Trusty, Scally, Downs, Aaronson, McGlynn, M. Robinson, Zimmerman, Freeman, Tolkin, McKenzie USMNT Starting XI for 2026 World Cup What's changed from the last time we tried this exercise? Yunus Musah is out of the Starting XI, as are Matt Turner and Joe Scally. But all still make the roster. So who leaves the squad? Auston Trusty, Tanner Tessmann, and Giovanni Reyna, and that's from a 23-man projection this Spring. As for the XI, here's our latest projections with the 'no-doubters' in bold. Matt Freese Sergino Dest — Chris Richards — Tim Ream — Antonee Robinson Tyler Adams — Luca de la Torre Timothy Weah — Malik Tillman — Christian Pulisic Folarin Balogun
USA Today
08-07-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Way too early USMNT 2026 World Cup roster projection
The U.S. men's national team made a run to the Gold Cup final without its best roster. But with that 2-1 loss to rival Mexico, head coach Mauricio Pochettino will immediately shift his focus into forming a roster that can make noise at the 2026 World Cup. It's not going to be easy. With the U.S. co-hosting the tournament with Mexico and Canada, the USMNT will not have another competitive match until it takes the field at the actual World Cup. That means the USMNT will have to find a way to build chemistry and fight for roster spots in friendlies. For all the disappointing USMNT results in the past couple years, the program still has its best-ever talent at its disposal. It's just a matter of making those pieces work together. We're 11 months away from the World Cup, but this is what I think the 23-player roster will look like. Goalkeepers (3) Matt Freese (NYCFC), Matt Turner (Nottingham Forest) and Patrick Schulte (Columbus Crew) It's been somewhat of a struggle in the post-Tim Howard era to produce a reliable No. 1 goalkeeper. Matt Turner emerged as the guy for the 2022 World Cup, but inconsistent play and injuries have opened the door to competition. Matt Freese has seemingly taken control of the job after a strong Gold Cup, which included a heroic performance in penalties against Costa Rica. Defenders (7) Antonee 'Jedi' Robinson (Fulham), Sergiño Dest (PSV Eindhoven), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace), Tim Ream (Charlotte FC), Joe Scally (Borussia Mönchengladbach), Cameron Carter-Vickers (Celtic) and Mark McKenzie (Toulouse) Pochettino certainly didn't have his optimal defense available at the Gold Cup, which led to Max Arfsten playing out of position. Assuming Jedi and Dest can make it through the 2025-26 club season healthy, the starting back line should be set for the USMNT with Richards and the ageless Ream joining them. Midfielders (7) Tyler Adams (Bournemouth), Yunus Musah (AC Milan), Weston McKennie (Juventus), Malik Tillman (Bayer Leverkusen), Luca de la Torre (San Diego FC), Gio Reyna (Borussia Dortmund) and Johnny Cardoso (Atletico Madrid) Malik Tillman emerged as a potential starter for the USMNT after his strong Gold Cup and breakout season at PSV (leading to an expected move to Leverkusen). As we head to 2026, though, all eyes will be on Pochettino's decision about Gio Reyna. The now-22-year-old was at the center of drama surrounding the 2022 World Cup, but he has been in a multiyear struggle for playing time at the club level. Assuming Reyna can secure a move from Dortmund, he'll have a chance to earn his place back with the USMNT. Forwards (6) Christian Pulisic (AC Milan), Tim Weah (Juventus), Ricardo Pepi (PSV Eindhoven), Folarin Balogun (AS Monaco), Haji Wright (Coventry City) and Diego Luna (Real Salt Lake) Christian Pulisic dealt with his share of criticism for skipping the Gold Cup in order to have a full offseason of recovery. But the AC Milan star remains the focal point of this roster, and if he remains healthy, that won't change. Beyond Pulisic, Pochettino has some tough decisions to make with the attacking players. Pepi is coming off a major injury. Balogun has also battled injuries and inconsistency at Monaco. Still, I like them both to make the roster and for Luna to secure the 23rd and final spot.
CNA
07-07-2025
- Sport
- CNA
Mexico beat US 2-1 to win 10th Gold Cup title
HOUSTON, Texas :Mexico defeated the United States 2-1 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas on Sunday to successfully defend their CONCACAF Gold Cup crown and capture their 10th title in a pulsating final that delivered drama from start to finish. The U.S. went ahead just four minutes in when Sebastian Berhalter's free-kick found Chris Richards, whose powerful header struck the underside of the crossbar and cannoned straight down, with the referee confirming the goal was good. Mexico found the equalizer through Raul Jimenez in the 27th minute after the striker converted from close range. He then dedicated the goal to the late Diogo Jota, his former Wolverhampton Wanderers teammate, by holding up a Mexico shirt with the Portuguese forward's name on it. "We came from behind and are leaving with the title," Jimenez said. "It's great and really important to clinch the crown a summer before the World Cup. It's something we've been trying to do since the tournament began." Despite Mexico's first-half dominance they struggled to capitalise on numerous golden opportunities. Roberto Alvarado and 16-year-old Gilberto Mora both tested U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese, with Mora's venomous long-range effort requiring a crucial save from the American shot-stopper. The U.S. created chances through the slick combination play of Malik Tillman and Berhalter but could not breach Mexico's resolute defence again. Alex Freeman came closest when his header struck Mexico goalkeeper Luis Malagon in the face and Diego Luna blazed the rebound over the crossbar. Mexico cranked up the pressure after the break and got the crucial second goal when Edson Alvarez powered home a header, though there was a nervous wait due to a VAR review for potential offside. However, the goal stood and the Mexican contingent erupted with wild celebrations. "I'm speechless. We spent 35 days in intense training, away from our families, with the intention of winning. There's certainly room for improvement, but we're leaving happy and with our feet firmly on the ground," midfielder Alvarez said. "When they first disallowed the goal, it was crazy. It threw me off balance, but I was really happy to see that it was valid." Patrick Agyemang had the chance to equalise in the dying minutes but his finish just missed the mark in a tense finale as Mexico held firm to secure their triumph.
NBC Sports
07-07-2025
- Sport
- NBC Sports
USMNT vs Mexico player ratings: Who starred at the Gold Cup Final?
The United States men's national team came up short in their bid to win a ninth Gold Cup, casting aside an early lead en route to a 2-1 loss to historic rivals Mexico in Sunday's final. It was a disappointing but fair end to the 'B Team's' summer run, which began with a pair of sour friendly losses to Turkiye and Switzerland before a faith-restoring run over CONCACAF foes (with a guest appearances from AFC's Saudi Arabia). RECAP, HIGHLIGHTS — USMNT 1-2 Mexico in Gold Cup Final Stars were born and depth was questioned, as Mauricio Pochettino's punchy underdogs learned hard lessons in the final against a tournament-hardened El Tri who had the majority of their best players available. As for Sunday, who looked good and who struggled? Two of the USMNT's tournament stars struggled on the stage, while a young defender played his most complete game, and one player firmed up his place on the World Cup roster. USMNT vs Mexico player ratings Matt Freese: 7 — Not putting either goal on the 26-year-old NYCFC keeper, who likely earned himself a spot on the World Cup squad over the past few weeks. Six saves in the loss. Max Arfsten (Off 85'): 7.5 — His best all-around game thanks to a sterling performance in duels. Good as usual with the ball. Tim Ream: 6 — Played well for much of the game but a step slow when Raul Jimenez scored his goal (with a slight deflection off his former teammate at Fulham). Chris Richards: 7 — Terrific header to put the team in front and a decent day both on the ball and keeping it from goal. Piled up 13 clearances, many in a first half which saw the back line under siege. Opened up space for Ruiz's through ball when he joined Freeman in darting out of shape. Alex Freeman: 5.5 — Some very good moments for the 20-year-old when the side were under pressure, but had the chance to intervene on both Mexico goals and got it wrong. Harsh but true. Tyler Adams (Off 82'): 6 — Certainly brought fire to the proceedings but he was always going to be asked to do a lot on this roster in a game like this. Came up a bit short. Luca de la Torre (Off 69'): 6.5 — Solid performance doing thankless work in the middle of the park. Diego Luna (Off 85'): 5 — Forgettable end to a great tournament for the young Real Salt Lake star. Max Tillman: 5 — Ran his shorts off but ultimately was second best most of the game. Edson Alvarez and the Mexico midfield ate the Yanks lunch. Sebastian Berhalter: 6 — Great service on the goal but perhaps got too involved in the emotional side of the game. A wonderful tournament ends on a down note. Patrick Agyemang: 6.5 — Didn't back down from the challenge. Excellent hold-up play and drew loads of fouls. The questions is whether he can be a finisher. Subs Damion Downs (On 69'): — N/A Jack McGlynn (On 82'): — N/A Brenden Aaronson (On 85'): — N/A John Tolkin (On 85'): — N/A
