The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) is gearing up for the 2026 World Cup, which they will host, by playing their initial matches of the year. These friendlies offer coach Mauricio Pochettino a crucial opportunity to solidify his preferred starting lineup before the mandatory World Cup squad submission date of May 26.

March Friendlies and Tactical Setup

The USMNT recently suffered a 5-2 defeat against No. 9-ranked Belgium on Saturday. Their next fixture is scheduled for Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET in Atlanta, GA, against No. 6-ranked Portugal.

Pochettino has largely favored a 3-4-3 formation since abandoning the traditional back four used in a previous match against Belgium in September 2025 at the Sports Illustrated Stadium. The team has only four matches remaining before their opening World Cup fixture against Paraguay in Los Angeles.

Notable Absences Impacting Roster Choices

Several key players are currently sidelined, forcing Pochettino to evaluate alternatives. Sergiño Dest is racing against time to recover from a thigh injury and achieve match fitness for the tournament.

Other significant omissions include Tyler Adams, who missed Bournemouth’s last two matchday squads due to injury, Gold Cup standout Diego Luna (knee issue), and forward Haji Wright (groin injury).

Goalkeeper Competition Heats Up

Matthew Freese appears to be the current frontrunner for the No. 1 jersey, having secured the position since his last outing. However, Matt Turner, who holds 39 more senior caps, is expected to challenge him for the starting role.

Younger keepers Chris Brady and Roman Celetano have both received call-ups but are yet to earn their first senior international appearance.

Defensive Structure Under Scrutiny

Center-Back Selections

Chris Richards and Tim Ream, both possessing extensive Premier League experience, are considered automatic starters in the back three. Richards is anticipated to anchor the middle, with Ream covering the left side.

Auston Trusty is the primary backup for the left-sided center-back role, being the only other left-footed defender available. The right-sided center-back position remains open, with options including Alex Freeman, Mark McKenzie, Miles Robinson, and Joe Scally.

Freeman, who scored a brace against Uruguay in his last start there, is traditionally a full-back, as is Scally. This final defensive spot is one Pochettino will closely monitor during this international break.

Wing-Back Dynamics

The wing-back roles present a slightly different puzzle. Max Arfsten is almost certain to feature on the flanks, depending on which side Pochettino deploys him.

If Arfsten occupies the left wing, Freeman and Scally could provide the necessary width on the right. The potential absence of Dest, known for his pace and crossing ability, could be keenly felt if he fails to recover for the June 12 opener.

Conversely, Fulham’s Antonee Robinson has been called up for the second time since undergoing knee surgery post-2024/25 season. Robinson, who established himself as the starting left-back during the 2022 Qatar World Cup, remains vital for playmaking from the back line.

Midfield Engine Room Battles

While Pochettino experimented with a 5-3-2 in a 2-1 victory over Paraguay, he typically relies on two central midfielders. Weston McKennie is a guaranteed starter, having contributed eight goals and five assists in 45 appearances for the USMNT.

Pochettino must now identify his ideal midfield partner. Sebastian Berhalter has been a consistent presence since his first call-up last year and starred in the Gold Cup.

Aidan Morris and Tanner Tessman are also vying for minutes in the pivot, needing strong performances off the bench this weekend to secure their spots. Giovanni Reyna’s inclusion depends on the final midfield configuration.

Reyna's Role and Forward Options

Despite injuries and inconsistent play at Monchengladbach this season, Reyna remains called up. He previously scored once and assisted once in two matches last year and can operate across the front three.

With Wright unavailable, the center-forward choice is narrowed down to Patrick Agyemang, Florian Balogun, and Ricardo Pepi. Balogun currently leads the trio in club goals this season and possesses the most top-level experience.

Balogun is expected to lead the line, flanked by Christian Pulisic on the left, who is working to regain form following an October 2025 injury at AC Milan. The right-winger selection may see Brendan Aaronson or Weah starting, depending on the opponent and Pochettino’s defensive pressing strategy.