The U.S. Men’s National Team kicks off its 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup campaign today, June 15, 2025, facing Trinidad and Tobago in Group Stage action at PayPal Park in San Jose, California. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. ET, with pre-game coverage starting at 5:30 p.m. ET on FOX, TUDN, and ViX. Radio coverage is available on SiriusXM FC and Fútbol de Primera.
Entering the tournament, the USMNT is under significant pressure. The team is coming off a challenging period, marked by recent losses in friendlies, including a heavy defeat to Switzerland and a loss to Turkey. This poor run of form and a reported negative atmosphere surrounding the squad have raised concerns among fans and observers alike.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino is hoping the Gold Cup will provide a crucial opportunity for the team to regain momentum against Concacaf opposition. However, the squad selected for the tournament, and thus the starting lineup for the opener, reflects the absence of numerous key first-team players due to a mix of requested rest, club commitments (like the Club World Cup), injury, and reported “football reasons.”
Here is the official USMNT Starting XI announced for the match against Trinidad and Tobago:
USMNT Starting XI vs. Trinidad and Tobago:
25-Matt Freese (Goalkeeper)
3-Chris Richards
6-Jack McGlynn
8-Sebastian Berhalter
10-Diego Luna
13-Tim Ream (Captain)
14-Luca de la Torre
16-Alex Freeman
17-Malik Tillman
18-Max Arfsten
24-Patrick Agyemang
Substitutes:
1-Matt Turner
26-Chris Brady
2-John Tolkin
5-Walker Zimmerman
7-Quinn Sullivan
11-Brenden Aaronson
12-Miles Robinson
19-Haji Wright
20-Nathan Harriel
21-Paxten Aaronson
22-Mark McKenzie
23-Brian White
Not Dressed:
4-Tyler Adams (Foot Injury)
9-Damion Downs
15-Johnny Cardoso (Illness)
Analyzing the XI: Key Selections and Absences
The starting lineup features several notable selections shaped by the current roster availability and recent performances. Matt Freese gets the nod in goal, potentially reflecting tactical decisions following recent friendly results. The defense sees veteran Tim Ream captaining the side alongside Chris Richards, with Alex Freeman and Max Arfsten filling the fullback roles, getting significant opportunities due to absences like Sergiño Dest.
In midfield, Sebastian Berhalter retains his place, partnering Luca de la Torre. This pairing steps in for players like Tyler Adams, who is sidelined with a foot injury, and Johnny Cardoso, who is also unavailable due to illness for this match, despite having an impressive club season.
The attack features Jack McGlynn, who recently scored for the team, Malik Tillman, coming off a strong club season, and Diego Luna, noted for his chance creation in recent outings. Patrick Agyemang leads the line. This group is tasked with finding the offensive spark the team has lacked.
Beyond the lineup, the wider context of key players missing from the squad for this Gold Cup is significant. Prominent names like Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah, Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, Gio Reyna, Antonee Robinson, Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, Sergino Dest, Zack Steffen, Josh Sargent, Joe Scally, and Tanner Tessmann are all unavailable for various reasons, fundamentally altering the team’s composition and setting the stage for players like those in today’s XI to prove their value.
Scouting Trinidad & Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago, ranked 100th in the world by FIFA, enters the Gold Cup aiming to boost their hopes for World Cup qualification, seeing the expanded field as their best chance since 2006. Coached by Dwight Yorke, the Soca Warriors typically favor a defensive setup, often dropping deep and looking to utilize wide players and rely on set pieces. Key players to watch include Levi Garcia and Dante Sealy, who have shown attacking potential. While historically the USMNT has dominated this fixture since Trinidad and Tobago’s famous upset that ended the U.S.’s 2018 World Cup dreams (including four straight shutout wins recently), the Gold Cup opener provides a fresh start for both sides.
Opportunity Knocks for This Squad
Today’s lineup represents a chance for these specific players to step up and for the USMNT to begin turning around its narrative. Against a T&T side expected to be defensively organized, the ability of players like Tillman, Luna, and McGlynn to create chances will be crucial. While recent form and player absences cast a shadow, the Gold Cup on home soil is a prime opportunity to build confidence and cohesion. A strong performance and a winning start are paramount to shifting the momentum and addressing the pressure surrounding the team.
The match is expected to start cautiously, but securing three points is vital for the USMNT as they navigate the group stage in pursuit of a regional title.
