After a dismal 2-0 defeat to South Korea, the USMNT bounced back with an impressive 2-0 victory over Japan in Columbus. Mauricio Pochettino’s tactical tweaks, Christian Pulisic’s influence, and Folarin Balogun’s sharp display all stood out — but how much does this performance really change the outlook ahead of the 2026 World Cup?
The September international window was a rollercoaster for the United States men’s national team. A limp 2-0 defeat to South Korea had alarm bells ringing, but a few days later, the USMNT produced one of their most cohesive performances under Mauricio Pochettino, beating Japan 2-0 in Columbus.
It wasn’t just the result that mattered, but the manner of it. The U.S. looked sharper, hungrier, and tactically balanced, raising questions about whether this was a turning point — or simply a product of Japan rotating much of their squad.
Pochettino’s Tactical Shift Pays Off
For the first time, Pochettino rolled out a back three, and the impact was immediate. The system gave the U.S. a better defensive base and allowed wingbacks to push high, stretching Japan and giving Christian Pulisic the freedom to thrive. The captain was everywhere — orchestrating attacks, driving at defenders, and assisting a goal in what was arguably his best outing under Pochettino.
More importantly, the USMNT looked locked in from the first whistle, something that was sorely missing against South Korea.
Balogun Stakes His Claim
Folarin Balogun reminded everyone why he was such a coveted addition to the program. Clinical in front of goal and intelligent in his movement, the Monaco striker looked like the most complete No. 9 in the U.S. pool.
Is he the nailed-on starter? Not quite yet. Ricardo Pepi is returning, and Josh Sargent remains in contention. But Balogun has the highest ceiling and offers attributes none of the others can match when fully fit.
Should the U.S. Stick with 3-4-2-1?
There are still questions about how the system fits everyone — notably Weston McKennie — but it plays to the strengths of the squad’s depth at wingback. For now, it looks like the best option moving forward. Flexibility is valuable, and this formation gave the U.S. balance in a way the 4-3-3 hasn’t.
Fringe Players Making Noise
Friendlies are often about testing depth, and a few outsiders put themselves in the conversation. Alejandro Zendejas, Max Arfsten, and Alex Freeman all had moments that suggest they could push for World Cup roster spots, especially if Pochettino leans into wingback-heavy systems.
Overall Assessment
The September camp was a mixed bag. A poor showing against South Korea was followed by a far more encouraging performance versus Japan. On balance, it’s a C+ to B- window — signs of growth, but also plenty of unresolved questions.
Still, optimism is creeping back. With Pulisic leading by example, Balogun showing sharpness, and Pochettino willing to adapt, there’s reason to believe the USMNT are edging closer to the identity they’ll need when 2026 arrives.
