USA news

U.S. international Auston Trusty says he’s in some of the best form of his career, even after missing out on several national team call-ups. Determined to prove he deserves a spot among the U.S. centerbacks, Trusty - appearing on GOAL's The Rondo - noted positive differences between USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino and former boss Gregg Berhalter.

GOAL US writers debate result against Ecuador and whether Mauricio Pochettino should make changes ahead of tricky Aussie match

EXCLUSIVE: With a unique career trajectory, Balogun just might be the player to define the USMNT run to the World Cup

Tactically, Mauricio Pochettino seems to have figured out the player pool - now it's about deciding who fits best in the system

The USMNT boss largely stacked his lineup against Ecuador, and got a glimpse into what a successful World Cup run could look like

Haji Wright has been in impressive form for Coventry City, suggesting that there is a Premier League future for him somewhere, but the USMNT star has been advised to shun any interest shown during the January transfer window. The American frontman will be registering on recruitment radars after starring under Chelsea and England legend Frank Lampard in the Championship.

Christian Pulisic has been told why he is world-class, with USMNT colleague Tyler Adams claiming that "an American is the best player in Serie A". Pulisic has earned that billing at AC Milan, with personal bests being posted in Italy while becoming a talismanic presence at San Siro. There is the promise of even more to come, with the hard-working forward considered to form part of the global elite.

Folarin Balogun’s performance in a 1-1 draw with Ecuador marked his true breakthrough moment with the USMNT, according to ESPN analyst Herculez Gomez. The former USMNT forward praised Balogun’s intelligent movement and composed finishing, saying the display cemented his place as the frontrunner for the starting striker role heading into the 2026 World Cup.

Former USMNT star Alexi Lalas has tempered expectations after the United States’ impressive 3-0 victory over Italy in the Round of 16 at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup. Lalas acknowledged the achievement but emphasized that American youth teams have reached similar stages before. The U.S. secured their fifth straight trip the quarterfinals.

Former USMNT star Alexi Lalas praised midfielder Diego Luna for his substitute appearance against Ecuador in a 1-1 draw on Friday, highlighting the Real Salt Lake star’s unique flair and presence in midfield. Lalas noted that Luna offers a different look than No. 10 Malik Tillman, bringing a commanding touch to the U.S. attack.

Mauricio Pochettino insisted that the USMNT would present the best version of themselves in the October friendlies after months of experimentation. If Friday night is any indication, the manager was true to his word, as the U.S. turned in a confident performance against Ecuador, one of South America's best teams, salvaging a 1-1 draw.

The U.S. controlled much of the match against a World Cup team, eventually getting the equalizer - but should have earned more

AC Milan legend Massimo Ambrosini has praised Christian Pulisic and Santiago Giménez, crediting the Mexico forward for positively impacting the USMNT star's form. Ambrosini, who won multiple titles with Milan from 1995 to 2013, said both have impressed since joining the club. Pulisic has scored 38 goals in 108 appearances, while Giménez has netted seven in 27.