USMNT Shines with Remarkable Performance Against Uruguay

Set pieces play a crucial role in soccer, and it appears that Berhalter excels in this area. In a remarkable display, he scored from a set piece and assisted another goal with a perfectly executed corner kick.

The first highlight came from a free kick on the left, where Berhalter played a short pass to Sergino Dest, who then laid it back to him. Berhalter struck a powerful shot into the net, marking his first international goal. The celebrations were exuberant, but Berhalter quickly followed up by delivering a corner kick that found a wide-open Freeman, who made the score 2-0 just four minutes later.

“We wanted to make a statement,” Berhalter stated after the match. “We aimed to demonstrate what U.S. Soccer represents. We seized the opportunity to give our all and show that we are ready.”

With two goals in quick succession, Berhalter sent a strong message as he fights for a spot on the World Cup roster, surely pleasing Coach Pochettino. This performance highlighted not only his fighting spirit but also his emerging goal-scoring ability against a formidable Uruguay team.

Uruguay’s struggles in goal were evident, especially with their recent call-ups revealing a lack of experience. Santiago Mele started in the goalless draw against Mexico, but Fiermarin got the nod for this match. Unfortunately, he could do little to mitigate the onslaught as the USMNT found the net repeatedly, leaving Uruguay looking disoriented and lethargic.

The Orlando City defender, Freeman, displayed exceptional skills and scored his first two goals for the USMNT—one from a set piece and another from open play. His initial goal came via a precise header from Berhalter’s assist, while his second showcased his individual brilliance as he maneuvered past Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo to score.

“Before the game, I noticed the caliber of the players on the opposing team and tried to set that aside to focus on my performance,” Freeman commented. “This mindset helps me retain confidence and play to the best of my ability in every game.”

Freeman’s performance was indeed a statement, especially as he was named the MLS Young Player of the Year this season. His impactful display will be hard to surpass, as he emerged as the standout performer of the night.

Coach Pochettino expressed his happiness regarding Freeman’s two goals but emphasized the importance of analyzing his overall gameplay. “He can adapt his role defensively and offensively, making it challenging for opponents to contain him when he possesses the ball. He brings a sense of calm to the team.”

Ahead of the match, Pochettino reflected on his relationship with coach Bielsa, describing him as a mentor and a figure of immense respect. “My admiration for him is profound. I cannot regard him as just a friend; he is a hero in my eyes. I wait for him to greet me before I approach him.”

However, the USMNT showed no such reverence as they dominated the match, leaving Bielsa frustrated from his seat. Known as ‘El Loco,’ Bielsa is likely displeased with the outcome, which may have repercussions for his players as they prepare for the World Cup.

Uruguay fielded an impressive lineup featuring players from top clubs such as Manchester United and Barcelona, whereas the USMNT had a mix of five current MLS players and four former ones. Despite both teams missing key players, neither side can use that as an excuse for the result.

Of the seven contributions to the goals, five were from current MLS players, illustrating the league’s depth and the growth of talents like Freeman, Berhalter, and Luna, who have made their international debuts this year.

“Seeing four MLS players score in the first half is significant, not just for MLS but for the U.S. It’s indicative of our homegrown talent’s capability to perform on the international stage,” Freeman remarked postgame. “It highlights the vast pool of players we have.”