Analyzing the USMNT’s Latest Friendly Against Paraguay

The U.S. men’s national team extended its unbeaten run to four matches with a 2-1 victory over Paraguay, showcasing both individual breakthroughs and lingering defensive concerns. As Mauricio Pochettino refines his tactical approach ahead of next summer’s World Cup on home soil, several players either bolstered or weakened their standing in the player pool. Here’s a closer look at the stock movers from this high-intensity friendly.

Stock Up: Gio Reyna’s Impactful Return

After seven months away from national team action, Gio Reyna wasted no time in making a statement. His fourth-minute opener not only set the tone but also highlighted his growing importance under Pochettino’s system.

Early Goal and Tactical Influence

Reyna’s quick strike showcased his ability to find space between the lines—a skill Pochettino values highly in the team’s fluid attack. Throughout his 75-minute outing, the 22-year-old combined effectively with Sergiño Dest on the right, creating two additional scoring chances and consistently unlocking Paraguay’s defense.

Confidence Boost from Club Form

Reyna attributes his resurgence to regular minutes at Borussia Mönchengladbach. “When you feel valued and ready at club level, it shows on the field,” he said post-match. This confidence has translated into sharper decision-making and a renewed creative spark for the USMNT.

Stock Up: Folarin Balogun Solidifies Striker Role

Folarin Balogun continued his purple patch, netting the eventual game-winner and extending his streak to four goal contributions in as many starts. His performances this autumn have made it difficult to ignore his candidacy as the team’s No. 9.

Consistent Goal Contributions

Despite limited touches—just 14 in 90 minutes—Balogun remained clinical when opportunities arose. His fourth goal since September underscores his knack for delivering in high-pressure moments, a valuable trait for World Cup contenders.

Navigating Physical Duels

Paraguay’s center backs crowded Balogun throughout the match, testing his hold-up play and movement. His ability to remain focused and decisive, even when largely neutralized, speaks to his mental resilience and tactical intelligence.

Stock Up: Tactical Flexibility Under Pochettino

Mauricio Pochettino’s hallmark experimentation was on full display, particularly his adaptation of a back three that has now contributed to an undefeated stretch.

Three-at-the-Back Innovation

Switching to a back three allowed the USMNT to build more effectively from the back, with Joe Scally and Sergiño Dest providing width. This shape generated numerical superiority in midfield, helping the U.S. control possession and territory for extended periods.

Fluid Attack and Defensive Transitions

Pochettino’s system emphasizes dynamic rotations—midfielders like Cristian Roldan and Tanner Tessmann shift between holding roles and advanced pockets, while the front five interchange positions. This unpredictability created confusion for Paraguay and enhanced the team’s attacking versatility.

Stock Down: Defensive Shape and Concentration

Even in victory, the USMNT exposed vulnerabilities that warrant attention ahead of more challenging opponents.

Conceding an Early Equalizer

Just minutes after Reyna’s opener, a lapse in midfield pressure allowed Miguel Almirón to bypass Scally and feed Alex Arce for a tap-in. Such lapses in concentration risk undermining momentum and must be addressed in Pochettino’s defensive drills.

Reinforcing Midfield Pressure

Pochettino acknowledged the error as a coaching responsibility, emphasizing the need for better coordination off the ball. Strengthening midfield cover and ensuring timely pressure on deep passes will be vital to preventing similar situations.

Looking Ahead to World Cup Preparation

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Pochettino’s experiments will continue as he fine-tunes his preferred lineup and tactics. Players like Reyna and Balogun have made compelling cases for starting roles, while the team’s defensive cohesion remains a work in progress. Monitoring these stock movements will be key as the USMNT evolves into a contender on the global stage.