As 2025 draws to a close, it's time to reflect on a year of highs and lows for the U.S. Men's National Team as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup on home soil. From a challenging Gold Cup run to identifying key players, 2025 has been a year of both progress and questions for the USMNT.
The year began with Mauricio Pochettino continuing his tenure as head coach, facing scrutiny after a mixed bag of results. The team's early record of 2 wins and 4 losses, including defeats against Panama and Canada in the Concacaf Nations League Final Four, raised concerns. However, the Gold Cup provided an opportunity to turn the tide.
Despite a shaky start, the USMNT rallied during the Gold Cup, reaching the final and compiling an impressive 8 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws in their final 12 matches. This resurgence culminated in a resounding 5-1 victory over Uruguay, a two-time World Cup winner and a team ranked 14th in the FIFA World Rankings. This victory marked the largest margin of victory for the U.S. against a South American opponent, tying a previous record against Mexico in 1995.
The win against Uruguay also signified a turning point, marking the first time since 2013 that the USMNT remained unbeaten against FIFA top-40 opponents in five straight matches, all of whom had qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Throughout the year, several players emerged as potential stars for the USMNT. While Christian Pulisic remained a key figure, his absence from the Gold Cup due to a controversial break raised questions, which he answered upon his return. Matt Freese stepped up as a strong contender for the No. 1 goalkeeper position, capitalizing on Matt Turner's limited game time. Alejandro Zendejas also impressed, showcasing his talent and earning recognition from Pochettino. Folarin Balogun solidified his position as the incumbent striker.
Looking ahead, the USMNT faces pressure to improve its performance on the world stage. Critics have pointed out recurring issues such as poor decision-making, inadequate tactical understanding, and ineffective fatigue management. There are also concerns about the development pipeline and the need to produce consistently high-caliber international talent. The team's tactical approach has also faced scrutiny, with calls for a more aggressive and flexible strategy.
As the USMNT prepares to co-host the 2026 World Cup, the stakes are high. The team must address its weaknesses and capitalize on its strengths to avoid disappointment on home soil. The draw for the group stage of the World Cup is set to take place soon, adding another layer of anticipation and pressure. The USMNT's performance in 2025 has provided both hope and concern, setting the stage for a crucial year of preparation ahead of the global tournament.
