5 Key Questions for the USMNT in Gold Cup Knockouts (and Ahead of the 2026 World Cup)

Group Stage Wrap-Up

The group stage of the Gold Cup has concluded, and the U.S. men’s national soccer team has emerged victorious in all three matches. Featuring a lineup primarily composed of MLS players and a few fringe starters, they have netted eight goals while allowing only one. They even triumphed over the same team that defeated Argentina in the last World Cup. This is a fantastic opportunity for many newcomers to gain essential competitive experience as they prepare for next summer’s World Cup.

However, not everything is rosy.

Current Challenges

Amidst a brewing conflict involving the team’s star players, former players, and the head coach, the three wins haven’t significantly changed the narrative surrounding the team.

Aside from the dominant 5-0 victory against Trinidad and Tobago, the other matches raised some eyebrows. In the game against Saudi Arabia, the U.S. managed only five shots and secured a win with a set-piece goal from a center back just minutes after the hour mark. In their final group match, they were locked in a tie with Haiti until the 75th minute, when Patrick Agyemang skillfully rounded the goalkeeper to score the decisive goal.

The Elo ratings for the USMNT’s group stage opponents were 99th, 66th, and 86th, which leaves us questioning how much the team has truly learned from these encounters. As they head into the quarterfinals against Costa Rica, ranked 47th in Elo ratings, the stakes will rise, especially with potential future matchups against stronger teams like Panama (32), Canada (29), and Mexico (25). With 48 teams qualifying for next summer’s tournament, these opponents are of World Cup caliber.

Key Questions to Ponder

As the next week unfolds, several critical questions need answers:

Is Matt Freese the Starting Goalkeeper?

A month ago, the consensus was that Freese would not be the starting goalkeeper. However, with injuries sidelining Patrick Schulte and Zack Steffen, the coach handed Freese his first cap in a pre-tournament friendly against Turkey. Despite expectations that Matt Turner would reclaim the starting spot, Freese has been in goal for every match thus far. His performance has been average, facing 11 shots that had an expected goals value of 3.16 and conceding three goals. Can he maintain his spot against tougher competition?

What About Johnny Cardoso?

This summer was anticipated to be pivotal for the 23-year-old defensive midfielder, especially with Tyler Adams injured. Cardoso was expected to play a central role under Pochettino. However, despite a significant transfer to Atletico Madrid worth over €30 million, he has only seen a total of 11 minutes on the pitch during the Gold Cup. His earlier promise is now clouded by uncertainty.

Can Tim Ream Maintain His Influence?

Coming into the tournament, many believed that the center-back position was filled with World Cup prospects. However, the 37-year-old Tim Ream has played every minute thus far and has proven to be a crucial player. He leads in expected possession value among his teammates, indicating his importance in advancing the ball. Can he sustain this level of performance against stronger opponents?

How Will the New Midfielders Perform?

The replacements for Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Timothy Weah have shown promise in the group stage. Malik Tillman has been a standout performer, while Jack McGlynn has demonstrated exceptional passing skills. Diego Luna brings energy and ball security. But how will they fare against tougher competition?

Can Pochettino Instill a Faster Style of Play?

Before the tournament, Pochettino’s team was ranked last in ball movement speed and possessions per match. So far in the Gold Cup, the U.S. has played at an even slower pace. With Costa Rica awaiting as their next opponent, who plays a quicker game, will the U.S. adapt their strategy to keep up?

Context & Analysis

The upcoming matches will be crucial for the USMNT as they seek to solidify their roster and strategies before the World Cup next summer. Insights gained from these knockout matches will not only impact the Gold Cup but also shape the team’s future trajectory.