The United States showcased a commanding performance under Mauricio Pochettino, defeating Uruguay 5-1 in a friendly at Raymond James Stadium. The US team dominated the first half, scoring four goals in just
25 minutes. Uruguay's captain, Rodrigo Bentancur, was sent off after receiving a second yellow card just past the hour mark.
After a mixed start with the USMNT, Pochettino has now led his team to five unbeaten games. This comes at an opportune time with the World Cup approaching. Despite only achieving an expected goals (xG) total of 0.74 from their 10 shots, the team's performance was impressive.
The USMNT scored five goals against a non-CONCACAF team for only the fifth time in history. This was their first such victory since defeating Scotland 5-1 in May 2012. Their recent win over Paraguay also marked consecutive victories against CONMEBOL teams for the first time since March and May 2018.
Sebastian Berhalter opened the scoring in the 17th minute after a quick one-two with Sergino Dest from a free-kick, finding the top-right corner spectacularly. Just three minutes later, Berhalter's inswinging corner was headed in by Alexander Freeman to double their lead.
The USMNT's first-half blitz laid strong foundations for their victory. They scored four goals in the first half for the 11th time since 1970 and only the second time against a non-CONCACAF team, following their match against Ghana in 2023.
Freeman secured his brace with a powerful finish past Cristopher Fiermarin at his near post in the 31st minute after a driving run from the right side. Diego Luna added another goal three minutes before half-time by converting Timothy Tillman's scuffed pull-back into the bottom-left corner.
Maintaining Momentum
Despite Giorgian de Arrascaeta's stunning bicycle kick reducing Uruguay's deficit during first-half stoppage time, their comeback hopes were dashed when Bentancur received a red card for a high challenge on Berhalter in the 64th minute.
Tanner Tessmann capitalised on this advantage four minutes later by flicking Giovanni Reyna's cross into the net, sealing an emphatic display by the World Cup co-hosts.
This victory not only highlighted Pochettino's tactical prowess but also demonstrated USMNT's potential as they prepare for future challenges on the international stage.
