Defensive Concerns Loom Large

The USMNT is Dealing With a Leaky Defense Heading into the World Cup

The U.S. has now conceded 11 goals in four matches this year, and the back line that will be asked to carry this team deep into a home World Cup remains its most unsettling question mark.

Both goals against Germany illustrated the problem. Kai Havertz's second-minute header came from a free kick in which he was left completely uncovered, catching Matthew Freese flat-footed on his line. The second, just before the hour mark, saw Havertz slip a pass into a seam between Tim Ream and Miles Robinson, where Leroy Sané finished calmly beyond Freese's diving reach.

"There were times where you can see the eagerness in the team to go and press," Antonee Robinson acknowledged, "and at times we were a little bit disjointed in how we pressed. That's what good teams like Germany want you to do."

Compounding matters is the uncertain status of Chris Richards, who tore two ankle ligaments late in the Premier League season and sat out Saturday. Ream called him "a commanding center back and someone who's been relied on heavily over the past 18 months," and his absence, even temporarily, exposes just how thin the margin for error is defensively.

The U.S. also hasn't kept a clean sheet in eight matches. Against Paraguay, Australia, and Türkiye, they won't face Germany-level firepower. But they'll need to be better. Their World Cup run depends on it.

Robinson's Stunning Volley

Defender's Splendid Goal a Sign of Things to Come

If Antonee Robinson scores a goal like that when the World Cup begins, it'll be one of the moments of the tournament.

Robinson's 37th-minute equalizer against Germany on Saturday—a first-time volley he collected outside the box after a German clearance off a Christian Pulisic corner, then absolutely launched past Oliver Baumann—was the kind of individual moment that stops you cold. His former Fulham teammate Tim Ream admitted he was watching in disbelief from close range. "I had whiplash watching it go past everybody," Ream said.

For Robinson personally, it carried extra weight. He battled through a difficult knee injury this season, one whose recovery "didn't go as smoothly as I hoped," he said back in March upon returning to the national team fold after 16 months away. There were dark stretches. "Earlier in the season, I felt like I couldn't really see the light at the end of the tunnel," he admitted Saturday.

He sees it now. Robinson is one of the most important pieces of Pochettino's system — an unquestioned starter whose attacking runs and ball progression are central to how the U.S. functions going forward.

"Going into a World Cup, it means a lot," Robinson said of the goal. "A bit of freedom to shoot again if I'm in that position."

Friday can't come soon enough.

U.S. Falls to Germany

Despite a Stunning American Goal, the Germans Were More Ruthless in the Friendly Victory

The USMNT dropped its final pre-World Cup tuneup 2-1 to Germany on Saturday at a sold-out Soldier Field in Chicago, but the performance offered plenty of reasons for optimism heading into Friday's Group D opener against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium.

Things couldn't have started worse. Joshua Kimmich's free kick, earned after a Tyler Adams foul just outside the box, was headed home unchallenged by Kai Havertz in the second minute for his 22nd international goal—a nightmare opening for a defense that can't afford such lapses when the games count.

To their credit, the Americans responded well. Antonee Robinson leveled the match in the 37th minute, timing a left-footed volley off a German clearance from Christian Pulisic's corner to rocket a shot past Oliver Baumann from 23 yards out. Robinson celebrated his fifth international goal with a cartwheel and backflip.

The U.S. carried momentum into halftime, but Germany restored its lead just before the hour mark when a sharp pass through the penalty area found Leroy Sané for a composed first-time finish.

Pochettino subbed freely after that, with Matthew Freese the only player to go the full 90. Chris Richards remained sidelined with an ankle injury, adding some uncertainty to the backline ahead of what's shaping up to be a pivotal summer for American soccer.

U.S. Versus Germany: A Soccer History

The Germans Hold the Better Record, With the U.S. Having Some Stunning Victories

The United States and Germany have built one of soccer's more compelling international rivalries, meeting 12 times with Germany holding a dominant 8-0-4 (WDL) edge. Their history stretches back to June 13, 1993, when the two nations met at Chicago's Soldier Field—the same venue hosting Saturday's friendly—in a thrilling US Cup match that Germany won 4-3. Notably, German-American Thomas Dooley scored twice for the Americans that day. A rematch later that December ended in a more comfortable 3-0 German victory.

The rivalry took on greater stakes at the 1998 World Cup in France, where Germany dispatched the US 2-0 in the group stage with goals from Andreas Möller and Jürgen Klinsmann. Four years later came perhaps the most painful meeting of all—a 1-0 quarterfinal defeat in 2002, decided by a Michael Ballack goal and forever shadowed by a controversial, uncalled handball by Torsten Frings on the goal line.

The Americans have had their moments, though. A pair of wins in 1999—including a 2-0 group stage victory at the Confederations Cup—showed early promise. Then came the 2013 centennial celebration friendly, a jubilant 4-3 win featuring two Clint Dempsey goals, a Jozy Altidore strike, and a Marc ter Stegen own goal.

After Germany's 1-0 group stage win at the 2014 World Cup, with both sides advancing, the US responded the following year with a famous 2-1 comeback victory over the reigning world champions, sealed by Bobby Wood in the 88th minute. Germany reclaimed the bragging rights most recently in October 2023, winning 3-1 in Hartford despite a stunning early strike from Christian Pulisic.

Germany in Chicago

After a Friendly Win Over Finland at Home, Germany Comes to the U.S. For Its Final Friendly

Germany arrives in Chicago as one of the tournament favorites, carrying both immense talent and a few notable question marks into their final warm-up match against the United States at Soldier Field on Saturday.

Julian Nagelsmann's side is stacked with attacking quality. Kai Havertz comes in riding high after scoring Arsenal's lone goal in the Champions League Final against PSG in Budapest, while Florian Wirtz has netted three goals in international friendlies dating back to the March window. Deniz Undav matches that tally across just two appearances, giving Germany a genuinely dangerous forward line heading into the tournament.

Bayern Munich's fingerprints are all over the squad, with Joshua Kimmich, Jamal Musiala, and others forming the spine of Nagelsmann's setup. However, questions linger about whether that Bayern core can truly deliver. Musiala has been below his best in recent months, and Kimmich will be deployed at right back rather than his preferred central midfield role—an arrangement that carries risk.

The bigger uncertainty heading into Saturday is in goal. Veteran Manuel Neuer, who came out of international retirement to play in a fifth World Cup at age 40, has been sidelined with a calf muscle injury and was unable to train fully with the squad as recently as Thursday. A final call on his availability is expected Friday, with Oliver Baumann ready to step in if needed.

Tactically, Nagelsmann favors fluid systems and emotional intensity, though his tenure has drawn criticism for inconsistency. Germany will need their star players, particularly Wirtz, to perform against top-tier opposition if they are to go deep in the tournament.

Ready for Another Strong Performance

The USMNT Needs to Keep the Momentum Heading into the Match Against Germany

With one week to go before the 2026 World Cup kicks off on home soil, excitement is building rapidly around the U.S. men's national team as they prepare for their final pre-tournament tune-up against Germany at Soldier Field in Chicago on Saturday.

Coming off a confidence-boosting 3-2 friendly win over Senegal, the mood in camp is upbeat. Sergino Dest, who opened the scoring in that match, described it as a "great start" and called the Germany clash "a really important test." Despite the positive result, Dest was quick to keep expectations measured, noting that friendly matches carry a different kind of pressure than tournament football and that lineups and tactics often remain experimental.

One of the more encouraging signs from the Senegal game was the atmosphere. Dest expressed genuine surprise at the level of fan support inside Bank of America Stadium, saying a packed, pro-American crowd helps the team and even unsettles opponents. It offers a tantalizing preview of what awaits when the tournament begins in earnest.

Defender Joe Scally echoed the growing sense of anticipation, noting that excitement is building daily across social media and beyond. Still, the squad appears grounded. Midfielder Malik Tillman summed up the team's mindset simply: focus on the present, give everything, and leave no room for regret.

With a favorable group draw and home advantage in their corner, the USMNT head into their Germany matchup with momentum, clarity of purpose, and a fanbase that is finally, fully tuning in.

Mistakes Led to Both Goals Conceded

Multiple Mistakes Lead to a Tight Match Against Senegal

For all the attacking brilliance the United States displayed against Senegal on Sunday, the two goals they conceded served as a stark reminder of the defensive fragility that has dogged this team throughout Mauricio Pochettino's tenure.

The first came in the 44th minute, and it had a painfully familiar feel. Antonee Robinson, who had been impressive going forward throughout the first half, gave the ball away carelessly in midfield. The turnover immediately triggered a Senegalese counter, with Habib Diarra racing forward before sliding a composed pass through to Sadio Mané. With Tyler Adams beaten to the ball and Matt Turner unable to stop a well-placed low finish at the far post, Mané made no mistake. A 2-0 cushion had been gifted back, and the pattern of conceding right before halftime continued.

The second goal, seven minutes into the second half, was, if anything, even more damaging to watch because of how preventable it was. Miles Robinson, a veteran defender who should know better in those moments, played a loose back pass that was pounced on immediately by Jackson. Substitute goalkeeper Chris Brady, making his international debut, came rushing off his line but hesitated fatally, leaving himself in no man's land. Jackson had the presence of mind to lift the ball over the onrushing Brady, leaving Mané with a simple finish into an empty net.

The two goals brought Mané's international tally to 54, a Senegal record, and both came gift-wrapped by American mistakes rather than through any particularly brilliant buildup play from the visitors.

Pochettino acknowledged the issues were self-inflicted. "The chances that we concede were all through our mistakes," he said. "If we improve in the way we manage some situations, I think we will avoid them."

With Germany on Saturday and Paraguay on June 12, that improvement cannot come soon enough.

One Worrying Statistic

Conceding Before Halftime Continues to be an Issue Heading into the World Cup

The US men's national team has plenty of reasons for optimism heading into the World Cup, but a persistent and troubling pattern has emerged over their last four matches—one that Mauricio Pochettino will need to address before the tournament begins: an alarming inability to protect leads heading into halftime.

The trend started back in November against Uruguay. Leading 4-0 and cruising, the US switched off defensively and conceded a stunning overhead kick from Giorgian de Arrascaeta in stoppage time. Pochettino was visibly irritated, pulling no punches at the halftime whistle. "We need to keep our intensity and our concentration," he said. "That can't happen."

It happened again in March against Belgium. Weston McKennie had given the US a 1-0 lead in the 39th minute, only for Belgium to score twice before the break, flipping the game entirely. What followed was a humbling 5-2 defeat, one of the program's worst results in recent memory. Against Portugal days later, Francisco Trincão scored in the first half, and the US never recovered, falling 2-0 in a match they were rarely competitive in.

Then came Senegal. Despite holding a commanding 2-0 lead and playing some of their best soccer in months, the US again switched off in the final moments of the first half, allowing Sadio Mané to pull one back after an Antonee Robinson turnover. It was a nearly identical lapse to those that had undone them in previous matches.

The US recovered on Sunday and won, which is good news. But in a World Cup knockout match, surrendering a lead right before halftime could be fatal. The mental discipline to hold a lead for 45 minutes and enter the break with momentum intact is something Pochettino must demand before June 12.

Two Different Attacks Over Two Halves

Pochettino Made Wholesale Changes at Halftime, Giving Two Different Looks in Attack

The first half against Senegal offered a glimpse of what the United States could be at its absolute best. Pulisic and Ricardo Pepi built an almost instant chemistry, combining twice in the opening 20 minutes to put the US firmly in control. Pepi's movement pulled the Senegalese defense apart, creating the space that led to Sergiño Dest's opener—a goal that capped a remarkable 20-plus pass sequence involving every outfield player. Minutes later, Pepi sprung Pulisic again in behind, and the AC Milan man did the rest, rounding the goalkeeper to double the lead. Gio Reyna, making his first start since December, nearly got in on the act early but couldn't convert a low Pulisic cross that begged to be finished.

Then came halftime, and 10 new players, which included an entirely different attacking unit.

Weston McKennie, Timothy Weah, Malik Tillman and Folarin Balogun brought a different kind of energy to the second half, one built on pressing, physicality and direct running. Balogun had the ball in the net twice, though one was ruled out for offside. Tillman had another called back after a Balogun "foul" in the build-up. When Balogun finally got one to stick in the 63rd minute, deflecting in off a Weah cross, it sealed a victory that felt thoroughly deserved.

What Sunday demonstrated more than anything is the kind of attacking depth this US squad possesses, something genuinely unprecedented for this program. Nine players, including Alejandro Zendejas, rotated through dangerous positions, and each looked capable of influencing a World Cup match. Any of them could realistically start the June 12 opener against Paraguay.

"We all know what we like. We know the qualities each of us have," McKennie said of the second-half group.

For Pochettino, that is an enviable problem to have, and for opponents, a genuinely unsettling one.

Pulisic Shines in the Victory

Winger Provided an Assist on the Opener Before Scoring One of His Own in the Win Over Senegal

For months, the narrative surrounding Christian Pulisic had become almost impossible to escape. America's best player hadn't scored for club or country since late December, a drought that stretched across 22 games and consumed nearly every conversation about the US men's national team heading into a home World Cup. The questions were relentless. The scrutiny was exhausting.

Pulisic, to his credit, never stopped believing. "I've felt this confidence," he said after Sunday's match. "I've played really well in recent months, too, but all people seem to care about is goals. So hopefully now people can stop talking about it."

They can. At least for now.

Against Senegal in Charlotte, the 27-year-old looked every bit the player who tore through Serie A in the fall, constantly probing, pulling defenders out of position and arriving in dangerous areas. His connection with Ricardo Pepi was the story of the first half, the two combining for both goals in a 20-minute stretch that reminded onlookers just how good this team can be when Pulisic is at his best. He set up Sergiño Dest's opener with a perfectly weighted cross, then calmly rounded goalkeeper Mory Diaw to slot home his 33rd international goal. When he dropped to his knees at the corner flag, fists pumping, the relief was written all over him.

Coach Mauricio Pochettino, who had publicly declared earlier in the week that Pulisic would score at the World Cup, pointed to the work his star put in during training as the foundation for what unfolded.

With Germany next Saturday and Paraguay in the World Cup opener on June 12, the timing could not be better. A player who carries the ceiling of an entire program finally looks like himself again, and that should worry everyone else.

Strong U.S. Beat Senegal

An Early Pair of Goals Sets the Tone in a Friendly Victory Before the World Cup

The United States men's national team picked up a confidence-boosting 3-2 victory over Senegal on Sunday in Charlotte, with Christian Pulisic delivering a standout performance that fans and coaches had been waiting months to see.

Pulisic had gone without a goal for club or country since late December, a drought spanning 22 games, but the AC Milan winger emphatically ended that run in front of nearly 58,000 fans. He set up Sergiño Dest's opener in just the seventh minute with a perfectly weighted cross, capping a slick team move, and then added a goal of his own in the 20th. Taking a through ball from Ricardo Pepi, Pulisic used a deft first touch to beat goalkeeper Mory Diaw before slotting home from a tight angle. The celebration—a sprint to the corner flag and a drop to his knees—said everything about what the moment meant. It was his 33rd international goal in 85 appearances, and the eighth time he has contributed both a goal and an assist in a single US match, a feat only Landon Donovan has surpassed in program history.

Senegal, no pushover, rallied through Sadio Mané, who scored on either side of halftime to bring the visitors level, with both goals stemming from avoidable American defensive errors that will concern coach Mauricio Pochettino heading into the World Cup. The go-ahead goal came in the 63rd minute from Folarin Balogun, who turned a deflected Tim Weah cross into the net to seal the win.

The result snapped a run of back-to-back losses from the March friendlies and gave the US real momentum heading into their final warmup, a June 6 clash against Germany in Chicago, before the tournament kicks off against Paraguay on June 12.

First Send-Off Friendly

USMNT Ready to Test Themselves Against Senegal in World Cup Dress Rehearsal

The countdown to the World Cup is almost over, and Sunday's friendly against Senegal in Charlotte represents the first real opportunity for Mauricio Pochettino's squad to show what this group is capable of ahead of the June 12 opener against Paraguay.

The match at Bank of America Stadium (3:30 p.m. ET, TBS) kicks off just under two weeks before group play begins, giving Pochettino valuable time to sharpen his tactical approach before a second tuneup against Germany in Chicago on June 6. With the roster finalized and the squad settled in at the new national training center outside Atlanta, the focus has shifted entirely toward execution.

The Americans enter the friendly with questions still swirling. A difficult March window that produced losses to Belgium and Portugal raised eyebrows, and the concerns about midfield depth that followed Pochettino's roster decisions remain unresolved on paper. Pochettino has hinted at a more possession-oriented system, saying "if we play with one holding midfielder, it's enough," suggesting Tyler Adams could anchor the middle with more attack-minded players around him.

Adams himself returns to the squad after an injury-disrupted club season, though he finished the year strongly with AFC Bournemouth. The captaincy question also lingers, with Tim Ream the likely choice to wear the armband again, though teammates like Weston McKennie have downplayed the significance. "The captaincy band is honestly just a symbol of who the referee talks to," McKennie said.

Senegal, ranked 14th in the world and two spots ahead of the U.S., offers a genuine challenge. Their ability to control possession and create chances through dangerous wingers like Ismaila Sarr and Sadio Mané will test a defense still awaiting the return of injured center back Chris Richards.

For this generation, the World Cup moment has nearly arrived.

Richards on the Bench for Conference Final

Defender Wins European Trophy, Eyes World Cup Return

Chris Richards capped a dramatic week by collecting a winner's medal as Crystal Palace claimed the UEFA Conference League title on Wednesday, defeating Rayo Vallecano 1-0 in Leipzig, though the American center back watched the entire match from the bench as Palace's medical staff deemed him not yet ready to feature.

The 26-year-old had suffered two torn ligaments in his left ankle during Palace's Premier League draw with Brentford on May 17, sparking immediate concern about his availability for the World Cup. He was subsequently left out of Palace's final league match and was the only member of Pochettino's 26-man squad absent from Tuesday's roster reveal in New York, instead submitting a video message from London.

His appearance on the bench in Leipzig, however, offered an encouraging sign. Palace manager Oliver Glasner had set a clear standard heading into the final, saying neither Richards nor midfielder Adam Wharton would play unless fully fit following late fitness tests. Wharton started, while Richards was held back, but simply being dressed for a European final suggested meaningful progress.

Richards is now expected to link up with the USMNT at the national training center in Georgia later this week. Pochettino, for his part, has remained measured in his assessment. "We don't know. We'll see tomorrow if he plays, and then we will decide," the coach said Tuesday. "We have time before the World Cup to make changes if needed."

That flexibility matters because Richards is widely considered Pochettino's most important defensive piece. He missed the 2022 World Cup with a hamstring injury and has waited years for this opportunity on home soil. With the U.S. opener against Paraguay set for June 12 in Los Angeles, the timeline for a full return remains tight, but very much alive.

Senegal Ready for the U.S.

A Golden Generation's Last World Cup Dance

When the USMNT takes the field Sunday in Charlotte against Senegal, they won't be facing just any warm-up opponent. The Lions of Teranga arrive in North America as one of Africa's most dangerous sides, and one with serious ambitions for this summer's tournament.

Coach Pape Thiaw has made no attempt to hide those aspirations. "If, even for a second, I doubted that I could win the World Cup with Senegal, then I would step aside," he declared earlier this year. Remarkably, the footballing world has largely taken him at his word.

The confidence isn't unfounded. Senegal qualified for the tournament undefeated, topping their CAF group with 24 points after a dominant campaign. Their squad boasts genuine world-class talent, headlined by all-time leading scorer Sadio Mané (51 international goals), defensive stalwart Kalidou Koulibaly, and veteran midfielder Idrissa Gueye, who leads the nation with 122 caps. Observers have called this a "golden generation" for whom the 2026 World Cup represents a now-or-never moment.

Senegal's strength stems from two sources: a network of productive domestic academies that have consistently supplied players to Europe's top leagues, and aggressive diaspora recruitment targeting French-born talent before they commit to other nations. The result is a squad blending experienced veterans with exciting young players like 18-year-old PSG forward Ibrahim Mbaye.

Their World Cup draw, however, is brutal. Placed in Group I alongside France, Norway, and Iraq, they will have their June 16 opener against France at MetLife Stadium as an immediate measuring stick.

Off the pitch, there's been minor turbulence around Thiaw's contract situation, though the Senegalese Football Federation has firmly denied reports of any travel disruptions tied to the issue, calling such suggestions "unfounded rumours."

Sunday's friendly in Charlotte kicks off at Bank of America Stadium.

Pochettino Navigates Rumors

Managers Dealt With Questions About His Next Job During World Cup Prep

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just weeks away, USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino finds himself juggling tournament preparations alongside an unwanted off-field distraction: reported interest from AC Milan.

The story broke Thursday morning as the U.S. squad gathered at the newly opened Arthur M. Blank National Training Center outside Atlanta. Reports emerged that Pochettino had met with Milan representatives about their vacant coaching position following the dismissal of Massimiliano Allegri. When asked directly, Pochettino denied personally meeting with Milan officials, but left the door open regarding his representatives. "My representatives? It may be possible because they need to do their job," he said.

Despite the noise, U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson firmly dismissed concerns about distraction. "I'm confident that Mauricio and team are 100 percent focused on this summer," Batson told reporters, noting that Pochettino's staff were among the first to arrive and last to leave the training facility.

Pochettino's contract expires following the tournament, and the Argentine hasn't hidden his desire to eventually return to club soccer in Europe, where he has homes in London and Barcelona. Still, he insists his commitment to the World Cup is ironclad.

On the football side, preparations appear well advanced. Pochettino reportedly had his preferred starting lineup locked in since before March camp. The team will play final tuneups against Senegal on May 31 in Charlotte and Germany on June 6 in Chicago before heading to their California base ahead of the June 12 opener against Paraguay in Los Angeles.

USMNT Release 2026 World Cup Roster

Manager Pochettino Named His 26-Man Roster on Tuesday

Mauricio Pochettino unveiled the United States Men's National Team's 26-player World Cup roster on Tuesday, May 26, during a star-studded event at Pier 17 in New York City, broadcast live on FOX. The team will now head to Atlanta to begin final preparations before two pre-tournament friendlies.

The selections were largely predictable, with 13 players returning from the 2022 Qatar squad, including marquee names like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Tyler Adams. Pulisic leads the roster with 84 caps, making him the most experienced player on the team.

The forward group drew particular praise. Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi and Haji Wright combined for 56 club goals this season, with Balogun scoring 19 for Monaco, Pepi also netting 19 to lead PSV Eindhoven to a Dutch title despite injury, and Wright bagging 18 to help Coventry City earn Premier League promotion.

The roster wasn't without controversy, however. The omission of Lyon midfielder Tanner Tessmann, who was shut down by his club due to a muscle strain, came as a "big surprise" to the player himself. Rather than replacing him with another midfielder like Aidan Morris, Pochettino instead added defender Joe Scally, a move that left the midfield looking thin on depth.

For the first time since MLS launched in 1996, all three goalkeepers on the roster—Chris Brady, Matt Freese, and Matt Turner—play in the domestic league. Notably, Brady becomes the first uncapped player named to a USMNT World Cup roster since Juergen Sommer in 1994.

The Americans open Group D play against Paraguay on June 12 in Los Angeles.

World Cup Roster Leaked

The Guardian Released the Roster Ahead of the Official Release on Tuesday

Mauricio Pochettino's 26-man World Cup roster leaked ahead of its official Tuesday unveiling in New York City, and the biggest story isn't who made it, it's who didn't. Lyon midfielder Tanner Tessmann, who featured in each of the last six USMNT games, was left off the squad despite being considered a likely starter before suffering a muscle injury. His absence leaves the midfield looking thin, with only four central or defensive midfielders on the squad: Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Sebastian Berhalter, and Cristian Roldan.

On the positive side, Gio Reyna made the team despite not starting a club match since December, a testament to Pochettino's belief in the young attacker's creative ability. Club América winger Alejandro Zendejas was also confirmed on the roster, likely at the expense of Real Salt Lake's Diego Luna.

The defensive corps is notably heavy, with 10 defenders selected to compete for four or five starting spots. The USMNT opens World Cup play on June 12 against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.

Morris Playing for the Premier League

After the Southampton Controversy, Boro Play in the EFL Championship Play-Off Final

Aidan Morris and Middlesbrough are getting an unexpected second shot at Premier League promotion after Southampton's expulsion from the playoffs following a spying scandal, setting up a Championship final showdown with Hull City at Wembley Stadium on Saturday.

Middlesbrough originally fell to Southampton 2-1 on aggregate in the semifinals, with Morris logging 90 minutes in the first-leg draw at the Riverside before playing the full 120 minutes in the extra-time second-leg loss at St. Mary's. His 44 appearances this season already represent a career best for the USMNT midfielder.

The road back hasn't been without turbulence. Head coach Kim Hellberg admitted it was "impossible" for his players to train during the chaotic period of uncertainty surrounding Southampton's expulsion, leaving questions about their mental readiness heading into Saturday's showpiece.

Hull, meanwhile, has had over a week to prepare and boast a strong playoff pedigree, having won their previous two Championship playoff finals. They also handed Boro a 1-0 defeat at the Riverside back in December.

Still, the stakes couldn't be higher. The winner joins Coventry City and Ipswich Town in the Premier League next season, with Morris and Middlesbrough hoping to make their unlikely second chance count.

Arfsten Scores in Open Cup

World Cup Hopeful Scored The Winner in the Open Cup Quarterfinal

Max Arfsten delivered the decisive moment Wednesday night as the Columbus Crew defeated New York City FC 1-0 at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field to advance to the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Semifinals for the first time since 2010.

In what was a battle between two USMNT teammates, Arfsten got the better of NYCFC goalkeeper Matt Freese in the 59th minute. Assisted by 22-year-old Azerbaijani international Nariman Akhundzada, in his first Open Cup goal contribution for the club, Arfsten found space on the right side, cut inside, and curled a left-footed shot past a diving Freese at the far post.

"I just saw the moment to cut inside, and I saw a little bit of space, and it went in," Arfsten said.

Despite Freese finishing the match with seven saves, Columbus largely dominated proceedings, limiting NYCFC to five shots, none of which found the target. Goalkeeper Nicholas Hagen earned a clean sheet without being forced into a single save.

"Even though we were winning 1-0, we still had the ball, and we're being a bit daring and bold," Arfsten noted.

The Crew will host Orlando City SC in the Semifinals the week of September 16-17.

Richards Injury Update

Defender "Should" Be Ready For The World Cup

US men's national team center back Chris Richards is racing against time ahead of the World Cup after Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner confirmed Thursday that he tore two ligaments in his ankle during last weekend's 2-2 draw with Brentford.

Glasner ruled Richards out of Sunday's season finale against Arsenal and called it "50-50" whether he'd be fit for Crystal Palace's UEFA Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano in Leipzig next Wednesday. Sources close to the player told The Athletic the final would likely come "a day or two" too soon, though he should be "good" for the World Cup. A source also told the New York Post that Richards is expected to miss just 7-8 days and could still feature in Leipzig.

Adding further optimism, Men in Blazers reported they spoke with Richards' agent, who described the injury as minor and said he shouldn't miss a single minute of the tournament.

The news is a significant relief for coach Mauricio Pochettino, who is days away from naming his World Cup squad. Richards is widely considered the USMNT's most important center back, and the Americans open Group D play against Paraguay on June 12 in Inglewood, California.

Pepi Scores in Season Finale

Forward and His Compatriot Finish the Eredivisie Season With a Win

Ricardo Pepi rounded off PSV Eindhoven's Eredivisie season with a penalty in an emphatic 5-1 victory over FC Twente on Saturday, while fellow American Sergiño Dest contributed a solid all-around display from left back.

Pepi's goal came in the 84th minute, converting from the spot after substitute Anass Salah-Eddine had won the penalty. It was a fitting end to a dominant afternoon for Peter Bosz's side, who had already put the game to bed well before the American striker added the gloss. Pepi had actually thought he'd scored earlier, putting the ball in the net in the 21st minute, only to be flagged for offside. He won all three of his ground duels and completed both dribble attempts, bringing a physical presence throughout.

The result was a dominant one for PSV, who led 2-1 at half-time thanks to Ryan Flamingo's early header and Noah Fernandez's effort just before the break, with Twente briefly leveling through Sondre Ørjasæter. Dennis Man and Guus Til extended the lead after the restart before Pepi's late penalty sealed it — PSV's 100th goal of the season.

Dest, operating at left back, was busy and effective. He created two chances, including one big chance, made eight recoveries, and completed three of five dribble attempts. He was cautioned with a yellow card, the one blemish on an otherwise productive afternoon.

For Twente, the defeat confirmed a fourth-place finish, meaning Europa League qualifying rather than Champions League football awaits them next season—a significant blow given how close they came.

Trusty and Celtic Win the SPL

Defender Helped Celtic Seal the Title Against Hearts

Auston Trusty capped a remarkable season by helping Celtic clinch a fifth consecutive Scottish Premiership title on Saturday, as Martin O'Neill's side produced a stunning comeback to beat Hearts 3-1 at a raucous Celtic Park.

The 27-year-old American center-back started and played 73 minutes of one of the most dramatic title deciders Scottish football has seen in years. Hearts had led the table for 250 days this season and went ahead through Lawrence Shankland's header just before half-time, putting Derek McInnes' side on the brink of their first championship since 1960. But Celtic leveled through Arne Engels' penalty after a handball call, and the momentum began to shift.

The decisive moment came in the 87th minute when Daizen Maeda slotted home Callum Osmond's pull-back. The goal was initially ruled out for offside, but a VAR review confirmed Osmond's run had been perfectly timed. With Hearts pushing desperately for an equalizer, Osmond broke clear to add a third in stoppage time, sending the Celtic Park faithful streaming onto the pitch in celebration.

Trusty finished the match having made eight defensive contributions, seven of which came from headed clearances, and completed 72 of 78 passes. It was his 40th appearance of the season and his third trophy as a Celtic player.

"I think putting all this year into perspective, yes, absolutely," Trusty said about it being the best season of his career. "Behind the scenes stuff, there's been highs, there's been lows. But really, to see us come together at this point and to come back in the past few games and really make a mark and win the game, it's fantastic. The guys are just amazing."

The title win adds another remarkable chapter to a career Trusty has built through relentless determination and vivid self-belief. For Celtic, the Scottish Cup Final against Dunfermline Athletic on May 23 is the final match of the season, and for Trusty personally, a potential World Cup call-up looms shortly after.

Aaronson Limps Off

Midfielder Subbed Off Early in Leeds Victory Over Brighton

Brenden Aaronson gave Leeds United and USMNT fans a brief scare on Sunday before manager Daniel Farke allayed fears, confirming the 25-year-old's injury was nothing more than a dead leg.

Aaronson had been putting in a solid shift in Leeds' 1-0 win over Brighton when things took a turn just after halftime. Around the 57th minute, he began visibly struggling, his usual energetic presence noticeably diminished. A minute later, he went to the ground and called for medical attention. After consultations with the medical staff and some manual tests on his left leg, Aaronson limped off the pitch and was replaced, looking concerned but not distraught as he made his way to the bench.

Farke moved quickly to calm nerves afterward. "It was just a dead leg," the Leeds manager said. "He was, even at halftime, on the bike trying to keep going. It normally just lasts a few days, but it was getting tighter and tighter. He should be alright for the next game." That next game is Leeds' season finale against West Ham on May 24.

The timing of any injury is delicate with the World Cup weeks away, and USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino is set to name his 26-man squad on May 26. Aaronson, who has 57 caps and nine international goals to his name, has had a productive Premier League season, scoring four goals and adding five assists in 36 appearances for a Leeds side many had tipped for relegation.

While he hasn't been a regular starter for the national team recently, his club form has strengthened his case for a spot in the squad. If healthy, he profiles as an impact substitute in the mold of his 2022 World Cup role in Qatar. Farke's update suggests that the dream remains firmly intact.

Richards Injury Scare

Defender Needed Help Off the Field After a Draw Against Brentford

Chris Richards endured a nervy end to Sunday's 2-2 draw between Crystal Palace and Brentford, limping off and needing assistance to get down the tunnel at the Gtech Community Stadium after twisting his ankle in the closing stages.

The 26-year-old center-back came off the bench in the 61st minute, replacing the injured Maxence Lacroix, and played the final 29 minutes of the match. The injury occurred when Brentford striker Igor Thiago landed on Richards' ankle after the American had jumped to win a header. Despite clearly being in significant pain, Richards remarkably stayed on the pitch and played through it—a decision that raised eyebrows given the match held little bearing on Palace's season.

Oliver Glasner confirmed the diagnosis afterward, though he stopped short of providing a timeline for recovery. "He twisted his ankle," Glasner said. "I think he got Thiago landing on his ankle, and then it twisted. It's quite swollen, so we have to assess it further, but hopefully he can return in the midweek."

The timing could hardly be worse. Richards, who has made 49 appearances in all competitions for Palace this season, faces a pivotal fortnight. Crystal Palace conclude their Premier League campaign against Arsenal on May 24, before an even bigger occasion three days later—a UEFA Conference League final against Spanish club Rayo Vallecano, which would be the club's first-ever European final.

Beyond the club stage, Richards is also a key figure for the USMNT heading into the home World Cup this summer. Mauricio Pochettino is set to name his 26-man squad on May 26—just two days after Palace's final league fixture.

A rolled ankle can range from a minor setback to a more serious ligament issue, and with so much at stake, the coming days of assessment will be anxiously watched by club and country alike.

Jedi's First Premier League Goal

Defender Converts From the Spot in a Draw With Wolves

Antonee Robinson etched his name into Premier League history on Sunday, scoring his first-ever goal in England's top flight as Fulham drew 1-1 with already-relegated Wolves.

The 28-year-old left back converted a penalty in first-half stoppage time, becoming the 28th American to score in the Premier League in his 157th appearance in the competition. It was his fourth goal in 214 career appearances for Fulham overall, having previously found the net twice in the Championship and once in the Carabao Cup.

The spot-kick came after referee Thomas Kirk, following a pitchside VAR review, ruled that Wolves teenager Mateus Mane had committed a reckless foul on Timothy Castagne in the box. Robinson stepped up coolly, watched goalkeeper José Sá, and sent him the wrong way—exactly as he had practiced the day before.

"We practiced penalties yesterday," Robinson said afterward, "and then on the day in the tactics setup, I saw I was on penalties, so I just did the same penalty I always do. I usually just watch the 'keeper and wait."

Despite the personal milestone, Robinson wasn't in a celebratory mood. He felt partly responsible for Mane's opener and was more focused on trying to turn the draw into a win. "That was my first [Premier League] goal, so I was happy with that," he said, "but obviously didn't look happy as I was kind of at fault for the first goal. Wish I could have celebrated a bit more, but I just wasn't really in that mindset."

The timing of the goal carries additional significance beyond club football. With the 2026 World Cup on home soil just weeks away, Robinson, who has 52 caps for the USMNT and is expected to feature prominently for Mauricio Pochettino's side, is hitting form at exactly the right moment.

Balogun Committed

On This Day in 2023, After Months of Speculation, FIFA approved Balogun's Application for a Switch to Represent the United States National Team

From rumors to ‘open dialogue’ to being spotted in Orlando through an Instagram post to filing the one-time switch, the saga of Folarin Balogun committing his future to the United States men’s national team was full of twists and turns. It concluded when FIFA approved the application. The striker was now an American international.

Born in the United States and raised in England to Nigerian parents, Balogun was eligible to represent any of the three nations. His international career began when he represented England at the 2018 European U17 Championship, where the British were eliminated in the semifinals on penalties by the Netherlands—Balogun missed a penalty in the shootout. A few months later, Balogun accepted a call-up from the US U18 team for the Václav Ježek Youth Tournament in the Czech Republic, where he scored twice as the Americans won the tournament.

Balogun returned to representing England at the U18, U20, and U21 levels from 2019 to 2022. His last contribution for England was helping lead the U21 team to UEFA European qualification by scoring six goals in qualifying, the most in Group G.

Balogun started hot in the 2022-23 club season. Arsenal loaned him to Stade Reims in Ligue 1, and he came out of the gates strong, scoring five goals in the first six matches in the league. The striker finished with 10 goals before the new year, and the rumors of the tri-national making an international decision would come sooner rather than later.

On March 15, interim US manager Anthony Hudson said, “With Flo, all I'll say is that there is open dialogue with him and his team, and that dialogue is continuing. That's all I can say on that one.” On March 19, he scored his 17th goal of the season in a 2-1 defeat against Marseille. With the international break ahead, the US would travel to Grenada for a CONCACAF Nations League group stage match on March 23, then host El Salvador in Orlando on March 27 for the final group match. On March 22, Balogun posted an Instagram picture of himself with a buddy outside a car. Then, Twitter went to work.

Within hours, it was discovered that Balogun was stateside in Orlando, where the USMNT would be training. Speculation of Balogun committing to the USA was at an all-time high. The next day, while the US was in Grenada, Balogun posted another picture of himself training with the caption “the heat! 😮‍💨”, further speculating that he was in Florida. By the evening, he attended the Orlando Magic's 111-106 victory over the New York Knicks. Balogun being in Orlando while the USMNT was there was a coincidence, but Hudson reached out to invite the uncommitted striker to dinner.

“I was with my agent as well, so the timing was good,” Balogun told The Athletic on June 9. “We spoke about a lot of things, and he just explained the vision for U.S. Soccer. In the end, we had a discussion, I went back home, I still had some time to obviously think and take in what he was saying, and then I came to my conclusion.”

The US would beat Grenada and El Salvador during the window, cementing their spot in the Nations League Finals in June. Balogun returned to France and picked up right where he left off, assisting in the first match since the break — a 3-0 win over Nantes. That would be followed by his 18th goal of the season, a 90th-minute equalizer from the spot in a 1-1 draw with Stade Brestois on April 9. Balogun would be held without a goal for his next four matches before scoring in a 2-1 defeat to Lens on May 12. Four days later, on May 16, FIFA approved his application.

Balogun to the US was confirmed. Next up on the calendar was the Nations League Finals, where Balogun could/would make his debut in the semifinals against Mexico.

“Luckily for me, my first time is going to be in a competitive tournament, so of course, the ambition is to win, and there's not really much to it,” Balogun said. “I think I'm going to have the opportunity to train with the boys and just get to know everyone, but for sure, straight down to business when we head over to Vegas.”

But first, Balogun needed to complete his club season, where he scored in two of the final three matches to finish with 21 goals — fourth among Ligue 1 top-goalscorers, behind Kylian Mbappe, Alexandre Lacazette and Jonathan David. That final goal came in a 3-1 defeat to Montpellier on the final day of the season on June 3, and Reims finished 11th in Ligue 1.

 Balogun arrived in Las Vegas three days later for training ahead of the June 15 matchup with Mexico. The striker would debut against the neighbors to the south, and though he didn’t have a goal involvement in the 3-0 win, he was at the center of the biggest scuffle. Cesar Montes chopped Balogun down in the 63rd minute and was shown a red card for his troubles. But not before half of the US team came to Balogun’s defense, leading to the scuffle that gave us the iconic image of Weston McKennie kissing the crest on the torn kit.

Balogun started the final against Canada and doubled the American lead when Gio Reyna played the striker a nicely weighted pass, which was buried past Milan Borjan. The US would win its second Nations League trophy with a 2-0 victory. On Aug 30, Monaco signed Balogun to a five-year deal for a reported £35 million, starting a new chapter in France after his breakout season for Reims.

Bundesliga and Ligue 1 Conclude

Both Leagues Finish Up This Weekend as a Few Americans Close Out Their Club Season

Saturday offers a fitting curtain-call for several Americans in European football, with both the Bundesliga and Ligue 1 concluding their seasons on the same day — just weeks before the World Cup roster is announced.

At Borussia-Park, Gio Reyna and Joe Scally face Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga's final matchday, with Saturday representing one last opportunity to make their case to coach Mauricio Pochettino before he names his World Cup squad. The pair have enjoyed a close bond on and off the pitch this season. Scally reflected warmly on their time together: "We really enjoy the days on the training field, in the locker room, in the car every day. We've definitely enjoyed every day because we know it doesn't last forever."

Scally has been a consistent presence, logging over 2,600 minutes across all competitions and contributing two goals and three assists, amassing over 160 appearances for the club. Reyna's place in the squad is less assured. Having made just four starts in an injury-plagued season, the 23-year-old acknowledged the stakes: "I want to be there. It's a World Cup in your own country. I try not to let it sort of take over my day and stress me out too much, but it is in the back of my mind." A late goal against Augsburg last weekend will have helped his cause.

In Ligue 1, also concluding Saturday, Folarin Balogun and Monaco travel to Strasbourg, with the American striker having contributed 13 goals and four assists in the league this season. Meanwhile, Lyon hosts Lens, though Tanner Tessmann will play no part, listed as out with a muscle injury. Tim Weah also misses Marseille's trip to Rennes through injury, while Mark McKenzie's Toulouse travels to Nantes in what could be his final club appearance before the tournament.

For all six, Saturday marks the end of their club seasons and the start of their World Cup countdown in earnest.

Trusty Fouled for Controversial Penalty

Defender Earned a Late Penalty as Celtic Keep Title Hopes Alive

While American teenagers were grabbing headlines in MLS on Wednesday, one of the more experienced members of the United States World Cup squad was playing a crucial role in one of European football's most dramatic title races, on the other side of the Atlantic.

Auston Trusty, the 27-year-old Celtic center-back, found himself at the center of a hugely contentious moment as Celtic edged Motherwell 3-2 in the Scottish Premiership. With the scores level at 2-2 and the match deep into stoppage time, Trusty went to ground under a challenge from Motherwell's Sam Nicholson near the touchline. Referee John Beaton consulted the pitchside VAR monitor before awarding a penalty, which substitute Kelechi Iheanacho converted in the 99th minute to secure a dramatic victory.

The decision sparked immediate debate. Motherwell were furious, while Celtic fans initially weren't even sure a foul had been committed, with some, including former players in the commentary box, only becoming convinced after multiple replays suggested Nicholson had used his arm. The incident will likely be discussed for days, particularly given its implications for the title race.

Those implications are enormous. Leaders Hearts, who had beaten Falkirk 3-0 on the same evening, will now go into Saturday's final-day showdown at Celtic Park knowing that avoiding defeat will be enough to clinch a first Scottish title since 1960. Celtic, meanwhile, knows a home win would deliver the championship.

On the pitch, Trusty's broader performance was quietly commanding. The American defender made ten clearances, including eight of them off headers, completed 92 percent of his passes from 101 touches, and contributed 13 defensive actions across the 90 minutes.

With the World Cup just weeks away, it is the kind of high-stakes, high-pressure experience that will do no harm to Trusty's preparations whatsoever.

Goalkeeper Battle Takes a Turn

One Earns a Clean Sheet as the Other Makes a Big Error as the Battle Takes Another Turn

With the World Cup just weeks away, the battle for the United States men's national team's starting goalkeeper spot intensified on Wednesday night, and neither Matt Turner nor Matt Freese did their cause any straightforward favors.

Freese, widely considered the frontrunner for the number one shirt heading into the tournament, gave American fans a nervous moment during New York City FC's 1-0 win at Charlotte FC. The 27-year-old appeared to get caught by both an opposing player and his own defender while coming out for a save attempt, and was soon hobbling before going to ground in pain. After a trainer came out to assess the injury, Freese opted to play on and ultimately delivered, recording his fourth clean sheet of the season and his second in less than a week. NYCFC coach Pascal Jansen admitted he hadn't seen the collision itself but spotted a significant mark on Freese's shin at halftime. "They got him pretty bad, but he's a big boy. He'll handle himself," Jansen said, adding that there were "no worries" about the keeper's fitness going forward.

With the US opener against Paraguay in Los Angeles scheduled for June 12, that will come as a relief. Freese has been the primary starter since last summer's Gold Cup, though the race has tightened in recent weeks.

Turner, meanwhile, endured a difficult evening for New England Revolution against Nashville SC, conceding three goals and committing an error that led directly to one of them—playing the ball straight to an opponent while trying to build out from the back. He faced an xGOT of just 1.29, meaning he conceded significantly more than those chances warranted.

Statistically, the pair are remarkably level in MLS this season, with both keeping three clean sheets. Coach Mauricio Pochettino has two more international friendlies to make up his mind before naming his starting goalkeeper, and Wednesday's contrasting nights did little to make that decision any easier, especially after neither separated themselves during the March international break.