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USMNT x MLS GFXGOAL
Jacob Schneider

USMNT x MLS: Brian White can't stop scoring for Vancouver Whitecaps while Charlotte FC benefits from Tim Ream handball that wasn't

GOAL reviews the major takeaways from Americans playing in MLS, including a star showing from Brian Gutierrez

As U.S. men's national team manager Mauricio Pochettino continues the buildup to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he and his staff will have eyes on the player pool ahead of each FIFA international window.

The European season is officially underway, with a number of Americans Abroad making statements at their clubs. Domestically, there are multiple members of USMNT player pool competing in MLS. 

Striker Brian White continues his fine season for the Vancouver Whitecaps, with yet another goal for the Canadian franchise, while rising midfielder Brian Gutierrez had a standout performance for the Chicago Fire, earning rave reviews from coach Gregg Berhalter. And Charlotte FC defender Tim Ream had a weekend to remember - in more ways than one.

GOAL looks at the major takeaways from this weekend's USMNT players in MLS.

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  • Tim Ream's mysterious handball

    Real Salt Lake have been on the wrong end of a few wild decisions in recent weeks, and Saturday just added to it. Tim Ream wasn't called for a handball in the box just five minutes into Charlotte's contest with the Western Conference franchise, a baffling decision from both the on-field officiating team and the VAR crew.

    From all indications, it was clearly a handball offense, with his arm not in natural position.

    Yet, Someway, somehow, VAR deemed his arm to be in a "natural position." Ream's arm is outstretched, it blocks the ball, and it's not a soccer play. But the USMNT veteran got away with it. Ironically, he went on to have a spectacular performance and was named Man of the Match as CLT defeated RSL 1-0.

    He put forth a brilliant defensive display and was crowned by fans after the match. Ironic result. From potential villain to hero. 

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  • Gutierrez saves the day

    Brian Gutierrez had himself a day, helping secure three points for the Fire in a stunning 3-2 comeback win over St. Louis CITY SC. Winger Philip Zinckernagel brought them level with 23 minutes to spare, before setting up the 21-year-old midfielder for the game-winner in the 87th minute.

    Gutierrez, who has two caps, finished from distance with a goal-of-the-week candidate, bringing his season total to eight, plus three assists, in 21 appearances.

    "I just saw that there was space when Phil gave me the ball," Gutierrez told reporters. "I think my touch helped me a lot. I just didn't think twice about it and said, ‘Why not have a shot? Why not have a go?’ Thankfully, it went in.

    "This was an important victory for the club as our objective is to make the playoffs."

  • Brian White Vancouver Whitecaps 2025Imagn

    White remains consistent

    Brian White scored for the third straight game across all competitions Sunday as the Whitecaps drew the Houston Dynamo 1-1. His goal, a penalty kick, helped Vancouver to a draw as German legend Thomas Müller made his debut for the organization, as well.

    White has come into his own in his late 20s, and he's become an elite MLS forward who should at least be a name discussed for the USMNT. His goal total is up to 13 in just 18 appearances on the season, and he leads the Whitecaps - competing for a Western Conference title - in scoring.

    Sure, a penalty kick isn't the flashiest of goals, but he's incredibly consistent. He scores goals, is a team player, and does his job week-in and week-out.

  • Minnesota United FC v Colorado RapidsGetty Images Sport

    What you might have missed

    + U.S. youth international Darren Yapi scored his third goal in two games for the Colorado Rapids. He's up to seven goals on the season.

    + U.S. youth forward Zavier Gozo will join senior team attacker Diego Luna on the sidelines for Real Salt Lake next weekend as both have yellow card accumulation suspensions. 

    + U.S. international Benjamin Cremaschi earned a start for Inter Miami after criticizing his role midweek, but was then called out by manager Javier Mascherano postgame.