Freese Continues Streak

Goalkeeper Cementing His Position as U.S. No. 1

Matt Freese's remarkable transformation from afterthought to national team starter reached another milestone Tuesday as he made his 12th consecutive start for the USMNT in their 5-1 victory over Uruguay. However, his focus now shifts to an emotionally charged MLS Eastern Conference semifinal as his New York City FC faces his former club, the Philadelphia Union, on Sunday.

Just a year ago, Freese was barely on the radar as Matt Turner appeared locked in as Pochettino's first-choice goalkeeper. But Turner's lack of playing time at Crystal Palace opened the door, and Freese burst through it. His breakout moment came during the Gold Cup quarterfinal against Costa Rica, where he made three crucial penalty saves, earning the nickname "Matty Ice."

Since then, Freese has been unshakeable in his commitment to excellence. During last week's homecoming to the Philadelphia area, he stayed almost entirely in the team hotel, declining family visits and interview requests to maintain his focus.

"I actually didn't see my family, I didn't do anything," Freese confirmed. "I just stayed in the hotel. I'm a bit of a loser, but when I'm in camp, I'm locked in."

Sunday's playoff clash adds personal stakes to professional ambition. Released by the Union in 2022 after their MLS Cup final run, Freese joined NYCFC and was named their MVP last season. Now the fifth-seeded Cityzens face the top-seeded Supporters' Shield-winning Union at Subaru Park—the same venue where Freese shone for the national team just days earlier.