In the recent matches against South Korea and Japan, the US Men's National Team (USMNT) showcased a tactical experiment that raised questions about their defensive organization and attacking efficiency. The initial formation, a 4-3-2-1, proved ineffective as players like Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams struggled with their roles. Pulisic’s lack of tracking back and Adams’ failure to rotate effectively left the defense vulnerable. Ultimately, Sergiño Dest's late pressing attempt exacerbated the situation, leading to confusion as Tristan Blackmon found himself overwhelmed trying to mark multiple attackers.
This moment of disarray could have been just a minor issue if Tim Ream had recognized the offside opportunity, but his lapse in concentration allowed Son Heung-Min to capitalize, highlighting significant defensive frailties. Although the USMNT was not entirely disastrous during the match, their hesitance to push forward resulted in a lackluster attack, which ultimately revealed the limitations of the 4-3-2-1 formation.
Recognizing the need for change, Coach Mauricio Pochettino made a pivotal decision at the hour mark against South Korea, substituting players and transitioning the team into a 3-4-2-1 formation. This shift had an immediate impact, as the US outshot the Taegeuk Warriors 14-1. The subsequent match against Japan saw the USMNT secure a convincing 2-0 victory, marking it as one of the most successful outings of Pochettino’s tenure. One of the goals stemmed directly from a well-structured attack, emphasizing the importance of formation in optimizing performance.
Throughout this camp, Folarin Balogun emerged as a standout player. Despite missing several chances, his ability to create opportunities is crucial for a striker's development. His recent performances, coupled with a strong start at Monaco, suggest he has secured the starting No. 9 position on the team. This makes his scoring ability vital as the team prepares for the upcoming World Cup.
Arfsten also made a significant impact, particularly after the tactical shift to a wingback role. His performance against Japan earned him accolades, and Pochettino highlighted his intelligence and character. Such attributes are essential as the USMNT continues to refine its roster ahead of the World Cup.
In goal, Freese displayed marked improvement, making key saves and showing decisiveness in sweeper-keeper situations. Although his aerial capabilities still need work, his overall game is trending positively. With continued development, he could solidify his position as a reliable goalkeeper for the USMNT.
On the other hand, Josh Sargent's performance has raised concerns. With only five goals in 29 appearances for the USMNT, his inconsistency has become increasingly evident. Despite previous potential, it’s likely he may not feature prominently in the next cycle unless a transfer to a more competitive league reignites his scoring form.
Midfielders like Berhalter and Luna faced challenges in this camp, failing to capitalize on their opportunities to assert themselves in critical roles. Berhalter’s limitations in ball-carrying and athleticism, combined with Luna's lack of aggression, left room for improvement as the team evaluates its midfield depth.
Tim Weah has displayed versatility throughout his career, playing multiple positions. However, his recent performances have lacked the spark needed to stand out, especially when compared to Arfsten’s dynamic display. Weah’s ability to adapt will be crucial for his selection in the upcoming World Cup, provided he can regain his form.
Zendejas made a significant impact with a crucial goal against Japan, showcasing his potential to challenge for a World Cup roster spot. Meanwhile, McGlynn proved his worth as a super-sub, demonstrating creativity and danger in his limited time on the pitch. Both players are positioning themselves as valuable assets for the national team moving forward.
The question of defensive depth remains a concern, particularly with players like Blackmon and Ream. Pochettino has indicated a desire to stop experimenting; however, the need for a robust defensive lineup remains urgent. Players like Walker Zimmerman and Miles Robinson could be critical additions to bolster the defense.
As the team looks ahead, it’s essential to identify which players will form the core group for the next camp. Malik Tillman and Weston McKennie are expected to be integral parts of the squad, along with Antonee Robinson. However, the challenge lies in integrating players like Yunus Musah and Gio Reyna, whose roles and forms are still being assessed.
The USMNT's recent matches have highlighted both strengths and weaknesses within the squad. As they prepare for the World Cup, refining tactics, evaluating player performances, and solidifying a core group will be paramount. The journey to success requires learning from both victories and setbacks, ensuring that the team is well-equipped for the challenges ahead.
