The U.S. Men’s National Team concluded a perfect Gold Cup group stage run on Sunday, securing a 2-1 victory over Haiti in Arlington, Texas. This win capped off three straight wins after a prior losing streak, ensuring the USMNT topped Group D under coach Mauricio Pochettino, conceding just one goal over 270 minutes of play.
This Gold Cup tournament, featuring a squad largely without some of the team’s biggest European-based stars, has served as a crucial “prove-it summer” for players aiming to earn spots on future rosters, potentially even for the 2026 World Cup. The match against Haiti, despite qualification already secured, was a vital opportunity for individuals to make their case, and several players seized the moment, making these player ratings particularly insightful.
Key Performers Stepping Up
While the full squad wasn’t visually stunning throughout the group stage, individual contributions against Haiti highlighted players rising to the occasion.
Malik Tillman Continues to Shine
Midfielder Malik Tillman once again stood out, earning the highest rating among the starters. His consistent form over five games has been impressive, showcasing both a high floor and moments of brilliance. Against Haiti, Tillman scored his third goal in three games with a well-taken header and was active defensively, winning a high number of duels and contributing significantly to ball recoveries. While acknowledging the group stage opponents weren’t “World Cup caliber,” Tillman is clearly making a strong case for a more permanent starting role.
Agyemang Delivers the Winner
Forward Patrick Agyemang made a decisive impact, scoring the winning goal with roughly 15 minutes remaining. His powerful presence and tireless work rate helped wear down the Haitian defense. The winning goal itself showcased a decisive touch around the goalkeeper and a composed finish, set up by an assist from John Tolkin. Agyemang’s performances this tournament, including his second goal, might just solidify his position as a potential option for the “last center forward” spot on a World Cup roster, lauded for both his dedication and unique attributes.
Veterans Provide Stability
The experience of players like Tim Ream and Tyler Adams proved vital.
Tim Ream: Despite receiving some debated media criticism for a pass-back that preceded Haiti’s goal (which some viewed as unfairly “infantilizing” goalkeeper Matt Freese), Ream looked sharp and essential. His passing out of the back was strong, completing an impressive number of passes, including game-high contributions into the final third. His continued quality has led to the remarkable discussion that he could potentially be starting at the 2026 World Cup if he maintains this level.
Tyler Adams: The captain faced an early scare with a yellow card in the first minute. However, his ability to expertly navigate the subsequent 87 minutes was a display of savvy and experience that surely resonated with the coaching staff. Adams provided valuable stability and his distribution from midfield, including excellent long-range passing, helped initiate attacks.
Other Solid Contributions
Several other players delivered solid performances, contributing to the team’s perfect group stage record.
John Tolkin: Provided needed steadiness on the left side of the defense. While perhaps not a flashy attacker, his presence looked more solid at the back, and he delivered the crucial assist for Agyemang’s winning goal, recovering well after a somewhat sloppy first half.
Luca de la Torre: Delivered a tidy and effective performance in midfield. He was solid defensively and in possession, winning duels and maintaining high passing accuracy. He proved effective at moving the ball across the pitch and provided key passes like an early through ball and a cross for a scoring chance.
Brenden Aaronson: At 24, Aaronson appeared a more matured product. He successfully executed the positive actions typical of his game, such as driving at defenders and pressing, while limiting the more erratic, “tornado-like” moments. He also provided the assist for Tillman’s opening goal.
Alex Freeman: Had arguably his best game of the Gold Cup and was one of the few players to start all three group matches. Still learning on the job, his risky passing sometimes led to turnovers but also sparked attacks. He is viewed as a prospect gaining valuable experience.
- Quinn Sullivan: Had a good rebound performance after time off the bench. He showed good desire in the box, hitting the crossbar and testing the goalkeeper, including a notable rabona cross.
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The Goalkeeper’s Costly Error
The only goal conceded by the USMNT in the group stage came against Haiti due to a significant error from goalkeeper Matt Freese. He mishandled a pass-back, playing the ball directly to Haiti’s attacker, who capitalized. While this mistake was costly and resulted in a low rating for his performance, it’s worth noting that Freese was otherwise described as being very tidy with the ball throughout the match and wasn’t heavily tested outside of that moment.
Late Substitutions
Several players entered the match late but did not play enough minutes to receive individual ratings: Jack McGlynn, Diego Luna, Brian White, Johnny Cardoso, and Paxten Aaronson (who nearly scored a spectacular late goal).
The USMNT will be pleased to enter the knockout phase on a winning streak after securing a perfect group stage. This tournament has underscored the depth and potential within the squad, offering valuable experience and showcasing players like Tillman and Agyemang making strong bids for future national team contention as the team looks ahead to tougher tests and the prospect of competing for the Gold Cup trophy.
