Sun, MLS changes, WC Qualifying continues

November 15, 2025November 15, 2025 gatorbest carmel-fc-soccer, carmel-high-school-soccer, football, indiana-soccer, messi, mls-schedule-change, mls-soccer, msl-playoffs, nwsl, nwsl-playoffs, ole-ballcoach, pulisic, reffing-soccer, shane-best, soccer, soccer-goalkeeping, us-soccer, usmnt, world-cup-qualifying

US Men Face #23 Paraguay Sat 5 pm on TNT, Uruguay Tues 7 pm

So here we go again – the US is actually playing 2 top ranked South American teams- perfect opportunity to put our best team out there to see how we match up just 7 months before we host the World Cup right? Ah no. Not with Botchitino in charge. Best player -Pulisic ?? at home in Milan. Best Centerback – Richards – at home at Crystal Palace, Best Centermid/utility player McKennie home at Juventus. (against his will). Tilman injured & Adams hurt last weekend of course – no issue. Honestly we had 3 players injured playing in Colorado in our last international window – stupidity by US Soccer – OF COURSE. Now Botch was ridiculed for playing Pulisic & Richards last time out in meaningless matches (sorry Milan & Palace) every match the US plays with just 7 months to a World Cup matters. But sending Pulisic, Tilman, Richards back to their clubs injured was simply stupid by the US. Now when we really need them in camp to see how we match up. They are not here. So in comes Gio Reyna – I guess how well you are playing for your club (he doesn’t) really doesn’t matter after all. Along with Right back Joe Scalley – thank goodness. So how do we line up and look this weekend against Paraguay? This is the game we actually have a chance – Uruguay is going to crush us Tuesday. I am hoping to see a bit of an experimental team tonight – backline of Arfsten & Dest on the edges and McKensie, Trusty & Joe Scally holding down the 3 Centerback slots. Lets give Pepi the start up front with Gio Underneath in the 10 slot. Berhalter or Morris in the 6 role with Tessman on the wing again. Best case scenerio today – 1-1 tie. My pick 1-2 loss before the beatdown Tuesday vs Uruguay.

DETAILED ROSTER BY POSITION (Club/Country; Caps/Goals)

GOALKEEPERS (4): Roman Celentano (FC Cincinnati; 0/0), Matt Freese (New York City FC; 11/0), Jonathan Klinsmann (Cesena/ITA; 0/0), Patrick Schulte (Columbus Crew; 3/0)

DEFENDERS (9): Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew; 14/1), Sergiño Dest (PSV Eindhoven/NED; 35/2), Alex Freeman (Orlando City; 11/0), Mark McKenzie (Toulouse FC/FRA; 24/0), Tim Ream (Charlotte FC; 78/1), Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati; 37/3), Joe Scally (Borussia Mönchengladbach/GER; 21/0), John Tolkin (Holstein Kiel/GER; 4/0), Auston Trusty (Celtic/SCO; 4/0)

MIDFIELDERS (7): Tyler Adams (Bournemouth/ENG; 52/2), Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps/CAN; 7/0), Aidan Morris (Middlesbrough/ENG; 11/0), Gio Reyna (Borussia Mönchengladbach/GER; 32/8), Cristian Roldan (Seattle Sounders; 41/0), Tanner Tessmann (Olympique Lyon/FRA; 10/0), Timmy Tillman (1/0; LAFC)

FORWARDS (5): Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United/ENG; 54/9), Folarin Balogun (AS Monaco/FRA; 27/7), Diego Luna (Real Salt Lake; 16/3), Ricardo Pepi (PSV Eindhoven/NED; 33/13), Haji Wright (Coventry City/ENG; 19/7

NWSL Playoffs on ABC & CBS

The Semi-Finals are here for the NWSL after the shocking upset of Kansas City last weekend. I love what the NWSL is doing with their TV contracts- unlike MLS – which is clueless when it comes to TV – NWSL leverages CBS and ABC/ESPN to present its playoffs after a full season of coverage. I just wish the NWSL could compete on salaries as they continue to lose US National players to Europe. Sat we get Washington vs Portland at 12 noon on CBS, while Sunday has Orlando and Gothem Battle Sunday at 3pm on ABC. See full game previews below.

Headlines Around the World of Soccer

Great to see Croatia and Luka Modric have qualified for the World Cup – England & France also qualified with their wins – while plenty can secure births over the next week. Who Can Qualify this week. Huge seeing Ronaldo got a Red Card in Portugal’s game this week and might miss games in the World Cup. Did you know American forward Ricardo Pepi has scored as many Champions League stoppage time winners as Ronaldo and Sergio Aguero? Huge news that MLS says Apple TV will show all MLS games without season pass starting next season – so if you have Apple – you get all MLS Games. MLS has also announced starting in 2026-27 they will move to a Fall Season to match the European Soccer Schedule – I think this is death call for MLS – hope I am wrong. Lots of stories on it below. US Soccer, World Cup Qualifying & NWSL Playoffs all weekend on TV. (See full schedule below)

Great to have Carmel High Coaches Shane Schmidt (rt) & John Simmonds (mid) join DOC Juergan Summer at our Carmel FC coaches social last week. Shane’s Boys won State, while John’s ladies finished 2nd in the state.

Yes T Ray Phillips and I reffed in the Snow in early November at the Zionsville College Showcase Last weekend.

Mike Arrington, Shane & T Ray Phillips at Zville Showcase last weekend

GAMES ON TV

Sat, Nov 15
9 am FS1 Kazakhastan vs Belgium WCQ
12 noon CBS Washington Spirit (Rodman) vs Portland Thorns NWSL Playoffs
12 noon? Georgia vs Spain WCQ
2:45 pm FS2 Greece vs Scotland WCQ
2:45 pm ? Switzerland vs Sweden WCQ
5 pm TNT, Max USA Men vs Paraguay Chester PA
8 pm TUDN, Univision Mexico vs Uruguay
Sun, Nov 16
7 am ESPN2 Liverpool vs Chelsea FC Womens Superleague
9 am FS1 Hungary vs Ireland WCQ
9 am FS2 Portugal vs Armenia WCQ
12 noon FS2 Azerbaijan vs France WCQ
12 noon ?? Albania vs England WCQ
2:45 pm FS1 Italy vs Norway WCQ
3 pm ABC Orlando Pride vs NY Gothem FC NWSL Playoffs
Mon, Nov 17
12 noon FS2 Finland vs Andorra WCQ
2:45 pm FS2 Germany vs Slovakia WCQ
Tues, Nov 18
2:45 pm FS2 Belgium vs Liechhtenstein WCQ
4 pm ?? Canada vs Venezuela
7 pm TNT, Max USA Men vs Uruguay Tampa, FL
8:30 pm Univision Mexico vs Paraguay
Weds, Nov 19
12:45 pm ESPN+ Juventus vs OL Lyonnes (Heaps) Women’s UCL
12:45 pm CBSSN Wolfsburg vs Man United Women’s (GK Joyce) UCL
3 pm CBSSN Arsenal vs Real Madrid Women’s UCL
Thurs, Nov 20
12:45 pm CBSSN Twente vs Atletico Madrid Women’s UCL
3 pm CBSSN PSG vs Bayern Munich Women’s UCL
3 pm ESPN+ Chelsea vs Barcelona Women’s UCL
Sat, Nov 22
7:30 am USA Burnley vs Chelsea
9:30 am ESPN+ Heidenheim vs Mgladbach (Reyna & Scally)
9:30 am ESPN+ Bayern Munich vs Freiburg
9:30 am ESPN+ Wolfsburg vs Bayer Leverkusen (Tilman)
10 am USA Bournmouth (Adams) vs West Ham United
10 am Peacock Wolverhampton vs Crystal Palace (Richards)
10 am Pk Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest
10:15 AM ESPN+ Barcelona vs Athletic Club
12 noon Para+ Juventus (McKinny) vs Fiorentina
12:30 pm NBC New Castle vs Man United
8 pm CBS NWSL CHAMPIONSHIP
9:30 pm Apple TV Vancouver vs LAFC MLS Playoffs

====RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ===

Coming home from Practice or Games at Badger Fieldhouse? Try out the Best BarBQ in Town right across the street (131st) from Northview Church on the corner of Hazelldell & 131st. RackZ BBQ

Save 20% on your order

(mention the ole ballcoach)

Check out the BarBQ Ribs, pulled Pork and Chicken, Brisket and more. Sweet, Tangy or Spicy sauce. Mention you heard about it from the Ole Ballcoach — and Ryan will give you 20% off your next meal. https://www.rackzbbqindy.com/ Call ahead at 317-688-7290 M-Th 11-8 pm, 11-9 Fri/Sat, 12-8 pm on Sunday. Pick some up after practice – Its good eatin! You won’t be disappointed and tell ’em the Ole Ballcoach Sent You!

======================RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ======================

USA

Poch: No USMNT player ‘safe’ in making WC roster
Mauricio Pochettino’s message to USMNT: ‘No one can feel safe’
Five Things to Know: USMNT vs. Paraguay

Players Showing ‘More Bite’ in November Camp as World Cup Draws Closer
USA vs. Paraguay, 2025 USMNT Friendly Preview
2025 USMNT Friendly: Scouting Paraguay
Mckennie Shocked to be left off Roster
Adams off U.S. squad for friendlies after injury
– How Roldan went from USMNT afterthought to Pochettino favorite
– Pulisic trades pitch for pen in writing new children’s book
– How the USMNT combats jet lag: Fly kits, supplements, sleep masks
USMNT’s Balogun scores, sees red for Monaco
As the World Cup approaches, can the USMNT impress in final tests of the year?

World

Who would win the 2026 World Cup if it kicked off today?
2026 World Cup: Who’s in, how the rest can qualify
Croatia clinch WC spot, end Faroe Islands’ dream
2026 World Cup: Croatia qualify, Germany still have work to do
Depay goal puts Netherlands on cusp of World Cup
Ronaldo risks ban at World Cup after red card
Gattuso wants rule change as Italy WC bid falters
Messi gets goal, assist as Argentina win in Angola
Mbappé too focused on another French World Cup triumph to dwell on 400 goals
Seeing red: Ronaldo’s antics fit with his late-career legacy missteps
Who can qualify for the World Cup this week?

Qualified teams (27/45)

– Europe (3 of 16 qualifiers): England, France, Croatia
– North America, Central America and Caribbean (0/3):
– Africa (9/9): Algeria, Cape Verde, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia
– Asia (8/8): Australia, Iran, Japan, Jordan, Uzbekistan, Qatar, South Korea
– South America (6/6): Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Uruguay
– Oceania (1/1): New Zealand

U17 World Cup

PAYING THE PENALTY: U.S. men fall in U-17 World Cup Round of 32 in shootout
United States suffer penalty shootout loss to Morocco in FIFA U17 World Cup
US vs Morocco U17s Highlights
Mexico shock Argentina and qualify to the Round of 16 of 2025 U17 World Cup

MLS

Opinion: MLS takes on risk in July-May calendar, but Apple deal change is positive
MLS 3.0? League’s new calendar is its smartest move in years
MLS Calendar Change – Pro Soccer Wire
MLS Calendar Change will Freeze Accent on the Field – Sporting News
All MLS Games to Be on FREE Apple TV – No Season Pass in 2026
San Diego vs. Portland Timbers: MLS betting odds, prediction, pick

NWSL

Marta isn’t a fan of ‘average athlete’ McCall Zerboni’s punditry
Why did Bia Zaneratto play 114 minutes on a sprained MCL?

USWNT stars shine for Chelsea as Girma makes season debut

Goalkeeping

Emi Martinez Making Saves as U17WC
Top 16 Saves of MLS Season
NWSL Great Save Naeher
Top Saves NWSL Lorena KC
What a Save

Reffing

Canada Game Red Card?
Var Sound Arsenal Offside Call vs Man City
Goalkeeper Obstruction
Ref Sounds – Fulham Game
Become a Referee Must be 13

Rob, Todd & I reffing at Grand Park for the Boys College Showcase last night

https://www.achievetestprep.com/career-paths/highschool-clep

Proud Member of American Outlaws http://www.facebook.com/IndyAOUnite

Looking to Get a Professional Company Headshot? Check out https://capturely.com/ Tell Rob The Ole Ballcoach sent you and he’ll give you a deal.

DISCOUNT SMALL ENGINE & BIG ENGINE REPAIRS IN CARMEL

Need your Riding Mower, Push Mower or any small engine or Car Engine Work Done by Carmel High Junior Mechanical Wizard for a bargain basement Price? Email my buddy Marc Sultanov at marc.sultanov@gmail.com

Temwa Chawinga #6 of Kansas City Current celebrates after a goal

Players of NJ/NY Gotham FC huddle after the NWSL match between NJ/NY Gotham FC and Portland Thorns at Sports Illustrated Stadium on September 26, 2025 in Harrison, New Jersey.

Trinity Rodman #2 of Washington Spirit warms up prior to the quarter-final round match between Washington Spirit and Racing Louisville

USA vs. Paraguay, 2025 USMNT Friendly Preview

by Parker Cleveland Nov 14, 2025, 10:00 AM EST

United States v South Korea - International Friendly

Getty Images

The USMNT is back to face Paraguay as the World Cup approaches following a decent October friendly window where the team continued showing consistency and growth. It was not a window without controversy as players returned to their clubs injured or having played heavy minutes much to the chagrin of their managers. This is truly a tale as old as time, but Mauricio Pochettino took heed and left several key players off the roster to allow them to rest and recover. Their absence will give him a chance to flesh out the roster with players who can provide depth but might not get a chance to start with the stars in camp. For their part, Paraguay come into the match having emerged from the gauntlet of CONMEBOL qualifying to reach the World Cup. They reached the tournament playing an organized and disciplined style marked by trying to break lines and play fast to push the ball forward and create chances. In a recent jaunt to Asia, however, the team jumped ahead 2-1 against Japan in the 64th minute and fell back but failed to secure the win thanks to a 94th minute goal from Ayase Ueda. That was followed by being thoroughly outplayed by South Korea in a 2-0 loss which saw the South Americans manage only 43% of the possession despite being behind 1-0 in the 15th minute. That said, Paraguay is tactically flexible and can create chances in possession. How the team lines up, using either a 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1, should indicate how they will approach the game. In the last three matches, Poch has shown that his team can effectively play a cohesive style. The three center back formation has worked well against the varied tactics of Japan, Ecuador, and Australia. What’s more is that the team has shown grit and determination after the tough loss to South Korea and falling behind the Aussies. Who he lines up with is a different issue. The list of players who are reliable starters for the USA has dwindled as Matt Freese, Alex Freeman, Tim Ream, Cristian Roldan, and Folarin Balogun are the players who have seen consistent minutes of those brought into the team. The window will be particularly important for Joe Scally and Gio Reyna. The left back can show that he is able to step in if Antonee Robinson continues to struggle with his injury and Gio Reyna has a chance to show he can lead the attack with Christian Pulisic missing. Perhaps more important than their play on the field, Scally and Reyna need to show the level of professionalism that Poch expects. Indeed, the story of these matches may very well be how players who are being given a chance, or a second chance, perform.

USMNT’s Christian Pulisic supports Gio Reyna in reviving his troubled career

Gio Reyna has the support of friend Christian Pulisic. Stephen Nadler / ISI Photos / USSF

By Tom BogertNov. 14, 2025Updated 2:16 pm EST The Athletic

U.S. national team star Christian Pulisic may not be in the November camp as Gio Reyna makes his return to the group, but the AC Milan star certainly has Reyna’s back.Pulisic said Reyna has been mistreated and sympathizes with the 23-year-old’s battle with injuries over the last four years.“He’s had a really tough time, unfairly in a lot of ways,” Pulisic told CBS Sports Golazo Network. “I feel for him. It’s difficult what we go through. Some of the injuries he’s gone through, it’s really hard.”Reyna exploded as one of Europe’s biggest teenage talents with Borussia Dortmund and the USMNT in the lead up to the 2022 World Cup, but controversy and injury have dimmed his light since.Reyna was in the middle of a dispute between former U.S. head coach Gregg Berhalter and his parents, Claudio and Danielle Reyna. The Reynas, frustrated by Gio’s lack of playing time at the World Cup, revealed to U.S. Soccer a decades-old domestic violence incident involving Berhalter and his wife. The revelation led to an investigation, a public saga and the breakdown of the relationship between the two families.There was a time during the 2022 World Cup when Reyna was nearly sent home from camp for his attitude.On the field, things haven’t been much smoother for Reyna. He has failed to feature more than 610 minutes in a single league season since 2020-21. After falling out of favor in Dortmund, Reyna went on loan to Nottingham Forest, where his playing outlook didn’t much improve. He was even left off the match-day roster entirely a handful of times.This summer, Reyna moved from Dortmund to Borussia Mönchengladbach. He has started just one game, but has appeared in six. He ramped up his fitness before his debut and then was sidelined briefly with a thigh injury.However, Pulisic is still supporting his teammate.

Gio Reyna is now on Borussia Monchengladbach

Gio Reyna hopes his move to Borussia Mönchengladbach can lift his fortunes.Lars Baron / Getty Images

“When I have him on the field with me on the national team, I feel a lot more relaxed,” Pulisic said. “He’s a really, really good player — that’s not a crazy take, a lot of people see that. I just tell him to stay patient. He’s a guy that’s gone through a bit of a tough time, he’ll admit that, but that doesn’t mean he can’t have really good things ahead.”The November camp is the first time Reyna has been involved with the national team since Berhalter selected him for the 2024 Copa America. A“I do think it’s been unfair, but I think he’s going to come around and people are going to see that soon,” Pulisic said.As for Pulisic, he is missing camp after just recovering from a hamstring injury sustained on international duty in October. He missed four games for AC Milan and returned from the bench last weekend.“I just want to make sure I have the time now to fully care for myself, to make sure my hamstring is doing well and allow other guys to take my place,” Pulisic said. “It’s just the best decision for everyone right now.”Pulisic was absent from the USMNT over the summer after asking head coach Mauricio Pochettino not to be selected for the Gold Cup. He got some time off before returning to Milan for preseason.The USMNT faces Paraguay on Sunday in Chester, Pa., and Uruguay on Tuesday in Tampa and won’t be together again until the March international break. By Tom BogertSenior Writer, US Soccer

How Max Arfsten, uncapped and ‘overlooked,’ became an unlikely USMNT fixture

Stephen Maturen / Getty ImagesBy Henry BushnellNov. 13, 2025

PHILADELPHIA — At 16 years old, Christian Pulisic was moving to Borussia Dortmund, and Tyler Adams was turning pro in New York. Folarin Balogun was with Arsenal’s vaunted under-17s. Weston McKennie and Ricardo Pepi were on similar paths to soccer stardom in Dallas. Most of the U.S. men’s national team these days develops in elite youth academies, often far from home, with big dreams. As for Max Arfsten?Arfsten, who has started more games for the USMNT in 2025 than anybody else, was playing at San Joaquin Memorial High School in Fresno, Calif., yearning for a Division I college scholarship.“Which is crazy,” Arfsten tells The Athletic, his mind blown by the contrast. “That’s insane to think about.”“But,” he notes, “everyone’s journey is different.”His went from the parks of Fresno to the University of California, Davis; from the San Jose Earthquakes reserves, where he failed to earn a first-team contract, to the Columbus Crew via the waning MLS SuperDraft. Having spent the first 21 years of his life in California, he didn’t even know where Columbus was. He arrived, essentially, as a trialist. He spent 2023 on the Crew’s bench — and quietly struggling, venting to confidants on the phone, sometimes returning to the Crew facility late at night to train on his own, less to improve, more to free his mind and “blow off steam.”Throughout that year, and even for parts of 2024, he was nobody. He was “overlooked,” as he’s said, and as he’s been for much of his soccer life.But at almost every stage, at every level, he was convinced: “I belong.”That’s what Arfsten, now 24, told himself in January at his very first USMNT training camp. That’s what he told himself two months later at his first A-team camp alongside studs like Pulisic and McKennie.He was nervous, he admits. “All these guys play for the top clubs,” he thought. He’d text his childhood coach, Milton Blanco, “all excited,” Blanco says. But Arfsten’s mindset quickly fell in line with what Blanco would tell him about any new teammate or opponent that might seem intimidating: “It’s just another f***ing dude.”By the summer, his understated cockiness began to flow. Off the field, in baggy cargo pants and oversized Ts, he oozes Cali chill; but on it, he plays with “that little arrogance,” Blanco says, and an edge. Even in an unfamiliar position, left back, he’d go at opponents. He rebounded from mistakes in a Concacaf Gold Cup quarterfinal against Costa Rica to score his first national team goal.No one ever anointed him a starter, but from March 23 through Oct. 10, he started all but one USMNT game. He entered 2025 with zero national team call-ups; he’ll likely end it with over 1,000 minutes, potentially more than any other U.S. outfield player this year. (He’s currently second to Tim Ream.)Advertisement

In 2026, he has big ambitions. “I want to play in Europe, I want to play in the World Cup,” he says. “I feel like those are the two next steps for me.”But he doesn’t want to get ahead of himself. Nor does he feel fully comfortable with the national team, even in his red sweatshirt, sipping a vanilla latte in the team hotel lobby on a Monday afternoon, ahead of, potentially, his 15th and 16th U.S. games.“Every time I come here, I still feel a massive point to prove,” Arfsten says.In fact, “that’s how I approach everything at this point,” he adds.Because that’s what he’s been doing at every stop on the journey.

Mauricio Pochettino and Max Arfsten share a high five

Mauricio Pochettino and Max Arfsten share a high five during the U.S.’s friendly vs. Japan in ColumbusAdam Cairns / Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY Network / Imagn Images

‘All I wanted was a D-I scholarship’

Arfsten was born and raised in Fresno, an unglamorous city in California’s Central Valley, and a thriving soccer town largely fueled by Latinos. “That’s who I grew up around,” Arfsten says. There was no big-time academy; no powerhouse college program; no flourishing pro club. But there was “a very big pickup, streetball type of scene,” he explains.Arfsten, the eldest of three brothers, took some traditional routes into soccer — a local club, Cal Odyssey; high school soccer, where “the level was really bad,” he says with a smile; and private training sessions with Blanco. But he’d also play in unstructured environments, with and against grown men when he was a teen. “That’s where I developed a lot of my technical ability,” Arsten says — in games that were “5-v-5, small space, just play.”In those environments, he says, “I got a lot better.” But he didn’t necessarily get on scouting radars. “All I wanted was a D-I scholarship,” he says. When he got his first offer as a high school junior, from UC Davis, he leapt at it.A week or two later, he recalls, he went to a tournament in Las Vegas and prestigious schools came calling. He considered Notre Dame. But he’d committed to Davis. “I felt a loyalty,” he remembers. He also wanted to play right away. So he enrolled at a school that, he admits, was “not even that good [in] the landscape of college soccer.”

AdvertisementAt the time, and for most of his childhood, he was an attacker — a winger or a roaming striker. He was good, and started most games as a college freshman, but … a pro prospect? While some of his present-day peers were already breaking into the USMNT, he was chugging along without a goal until the Big West Conference’s postseason tournament.

Arfsten ultimately spent two-and-a-half years at Davis — and later graduated, he notes, with a degree in economics, after continuing classes online. He left to sign an MLS Next Pro contract with the Earthquakes, and there, in San Jose, he began to truly believe he belonged. He’d occasionally train with the first team and think to himself: “I can play with these guys.”

The club, though, disagreed. So off he went, to the MLS draft, to Columbus and to the toughest year of his life.

Max Arfsten playing on the left wing for the Columbus Crew

Max Arfsten mans the left wing for the Columbus CrewJason Mowry / Getty Images

The breakthrough

He went alone, from California to Central Ohio, and did earn a contract with the Crew. But for the first time in his soccer life, he rode the bench. He’d push through training sessions; he’d drive home pleased with his performance. But come Saturdays, he’d hardly play. He’d call his mom and lament that Crew coach Wilfried Nancy seemingly didn’t like him. “I was ging through it,” Arfsten says now. “I was frustrated.” get out of his own head, he’d occasionally go back to the Crew’s training ground late at night. He’d scan his thumbprint and enter a mostly-deserted complex. He’d grab a ball and do technical work.

The following morning, coaches would sometimes confront him: “What are you doing? Why are you training extra?”

But they came to understand the nighttime sessions were, as Arfsten says, “a mental thing” — an escape from “just sitting at home and being sad or mad that I’m not playing.”

He logged just 272 minutes for the Crew in 2023. They won MLS Cup, but he hardly contributed. “It was a hard year for me,” he says now. “But I feel like I needed it to grow mentally.” He “reprogrammed” himself to treat weekday training sessions like gamedays. And in 2024, hardened, he began to establish himself.He earned Nancy’s trust, first as a sub, then as a starter, always in his new position: left wingback. “It was definitely an adjustment at first, especially the defending part,” Arfsten says. But he knew that countless left-footed stars, from Marcelo to Jordi Alba, had transitioned from attacking positions to two-way roles early in their pro careers. “I always had a feeling I could play wingback,” Arfsten says. Once he gained an understanding of pressing triggers and proper body positioning, it began to feel natural.

When he broke into the USMNT earlier this year, he was initially pushed even farther toward his own goal, as a fullback in a back four, and out of his comfort zone. Some fans would ridicule his defending.“I don’t want to agree with that,” Arfsten says of the criticism, “but I understand. I have grown up being an attacking player my whole life. Tracking back and defending is something that’s been asked of me as of lately, and I’m trying to embrace it and be as good as I can at it.”Now, though, as the U.S. has shifted toward formations with a back three and wingbacks, Arfsten has returned to his natural habitat. In his first game at wingback for the national team, he served up an assist to Alejandro Zendejas. With Antonee Robinson, the national team’s once-secure starter at left back, struggling to recover from knee surgery, Arfsten has solidified himself in the lineup.And yes, he does now feel more comfortable around U.S. teammates in camp. “I don’t feel comfortable in the sense that something is given to me,” he clarifies. He still feels the proverbial “chip on my shoulder, and I think part of that comes from playing in the MLS, as opposed to so many guys that play in top leagues.”But he is confident, perhaps more so than ever before, that he belongs.

‘OK, I can play with these guys’

When the maiden U.S. call-up appeared in his email inbox last winter, Arfsten was at his childhood home back in Fresno, and “I was hyped,” he recalls. He told his brothers, who responded: “Bro, that’s craaazy.” Blanco says that Arfsten would occasionally text him during those early USMNT days: “Hey, I trained with this guy, I trained with that guy.” Part of him, perhaps, was in awe.

But Blanco, who has worked with Arfsten off and on since the player was 8, would respond: “Dude, I’m happy for you, but that’s normal for you now.”

And although there were “some growing pains,” Arfsten says, “at a certain point, I was like, ‘OK, I can play with these guys.’”

His nerves tingled in January and March, but by July, when he walked out onto the shoddy grass pitch at NRG Stadium in Houston, for a Gold Cup final against Mexico, he felt something even more odd.

“I wasn’t nervous at all,” Arfsten says. “It was so weird.”

“The national anthem is usually when I feel it,” he explains. But there, in a cavernous stadium, with the stands 80% covered in Mexican green, on the biggest stage he’d ever played, he felt … confident.

Confidence is something he’s always had, to a degree; but also something he’s worked on intentionally. He reads books by or about successful people, such as Nike founder Phil Knight or tennis star Andre Agassi. He scrutinizes their words and studies their mentalities. He cites Kobe Bryant, and says: “I’m confident because I believe you have to be to be a successful athlete.”

He’s also learned to set goals that are both reachable and ambitious. Nowadays, they’re loftier than ever before. They’re also fairly explicit. Speaking two days after the Crew’s MLS season ended, Arfsten — who was the subject of a summer bid from English club Middlesborough, which the Crew turned down — says multiple times: “I want to go to Europe.”

“And,” he says, “I want to do anything I can to make this World Cup squad.”

He doesn’t let himself daydream, because “I gotta take care of playing well every day, wherever I’m at,” he says.But he knows, of course, that the biggest World Cup ever is seven months and two camps away. The USMNT’s opener is a four-hour drive from where he grew up.

“All I know,” he says, “is I want to be a part of it.” By Henry Bushnell

Senior Writer, U.S. Soccer

Who would win the 2026 World Cup if it kicked off today?

Multiple contributors

Nov 14, 2025, 04:11 AM ET

It’s mid-November, and qualification for the 2026 World Cup — to be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada next summer — is in its final dramatic stages, with many automatic spots to be filled over the next week and several other nations vying for a spot in March’s intercontinental playoffs.

Before we get there, though — and before we get to the World Cup draw, which will be held in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 5 — let’s ask ourselves a simple question: If the World Cup started today, who would win it?

SPAIN (8 votes)

Last World Cup win: 2010
FIFA rank: 1

Mark Ogden: The 2026 World Cup is going to be won by the team that can best deal with the conditions of a stifling-hot summer in the U.S., Mexico and Canada. Spain tick more boxes than any other contender. They are the reigning European champions — their pedigree is unquestioned — but Luis de la Fuente’s side will win the World Cup because they can dominate possession and wear down their opponents.

– 2026 World Cup: Who’s in, how the rest can qualify
– Marsden: Why Yamal fitness is causing Spain, Barcelona tension
– Carlisle: How the USMNT battles jet lag

They have two world-class goalkeepers in Unai Simón and David Raya, a proven defense and a midfield including Martín Zubimendi, Pedri and Rodri. Further forward, on top of the consistency and reliability of Mikel Oyarzabal and Dani Olmo, the unpredictability and goal threat of Ferran Torres and Samu Aghehowa, there is winger Lamine Yamal, who is capable of leading Spain to glory in his first World Cup. The final is scheduled just six days after his 19th birthday; what a gift that would be.

Tom Hamilton: Spain have plenty of big tournament pedigree despite falling on penalties in the UEFA Nations League final to Portugal in June. Their last competitive defeat in 90 minutes was way back in 2023, when they lost to Scotland. Pedri missed much of the Euro 2024 knockout stages through injury, but he’s back and firing, which adds to the world-class depth — and beautiful blend of youth and experience — that De la Fuente can call upon.

Other teams such as France, England and Argentina will push them close, plus we expect Brazil to click at some stage, especially with Carlo Ancelotti at the helm. As we saw in 2022, there’s likely to be a Morocco-esque surprise package, but right now, Spain are at the front of the pack. Key to their chances, though, is getting Rodri back up to full working order. Manchester City have been slow to reintroduce him, but if he gets back to his world-class best …

Sam Marsden: Time for me to make a wholly original pick! A lot of countries have a lot of talent, but right now, none, for me, are better than La Roja, for two reasons.

Firstly, they have a clear playing style, which is not always easy to find in international football. Secondly, it feels like the roles within the team are so well defined and understood within the squad that they’re best-equipped to deal with losing players to injuries or suspensions. However, that resilience and flexibility could be tested if Ballon d’Or runner-up Yamal ends up missing games. He is perhaps the one player in the squad whose quality, unpredictability and match-winning ability is difficult to replace.

Yamal situation playground stuff’ from Barcelona and Spanish FA

Julien Lauren believes the Lamine Yamal situation could be “easily figured out” if both Barcelona and the Spanish FA “speak to each other” to sort it out.

Alex Kirkland: Am I biased, living as I do in Madrid? Perhaps. But here are the facts: Spain won Euro 2024, beating Germany, France and England along the way. Before that, they won the 2023 UEFA Nations League. Since then, they’ve reached the 2025 Nations League final — only to be beaten in a penalty shootout by Portugal. They’ve just matched the longest unbeaten run in their history, going 29 competitive games without defeat (counting that Portugal final as a draw). They’ve also got Pedri, Yamal, Nico Williams, and so many midfield options that Zubimendi, Fabián Ruiz and Rodri are competing for just one spot.

Are there weaknesses? A few: Oyarzabal isn’t your dream center forward, but he has seven goals for Spain in 12 months. And if he’s not scoring, then Arsenal’s Mikel Merino — six goals in World Cup qualifying — will. De la Fuente isn’t entirely convincing, but you can’t argue with results, and his team play a really clear, cohesive, well-established style of play. If Pedri and Yamal stay fit: no other team comes close.

Cesar Hernandez: I think there’s no looking past the Euro 2024 champions. If we’re not counting the results of penalty shootouts (though it was a dramatic one with Portugal earlier this year), they’ve gone 24 consecutive games without a defeat in regulation or extra time. They’re also breezing through World Cup qualifying without a loss or goal allowed.Granted, if the World Cup were starting this week, there’s also an assumption that the fitness management of Yamal would be in a much more ideal state as he’s shifted between Barcelona and national team duties, but who knows. Perhaps this back-and-forth continues through next year, which could lead to a different prediction for 2026.

Lizzy Becherano: At this point in time, Spain have to be considered the front-runners. Winning Euro 2024 was a master class, one that also offered valuable experience to the younger players on the squad. The likes of Yamal and Fermín López are better for enduring the pressure and high stakes on the international stage, which is crucial to being successful at a World Cup. Certain countries boast individual stars who can drive victories, but Spain stand strong enough in each position to power through the most difficult challenges the upcoming World Cup will pose.

James Olley: Spain! They lifted the Euro 2024 trophy by becoming the first team to win all seven matches without requiring penalties. And the caliber of the teams they beat — Italy, Germany, France and England among them — suggested it was no fluke.Williams and Yamal are two years older with more experience; Rodri should be relatively fresh assuming he recovers from his persistent injury problems, but if not, Zubimendi — who deputized for Rodri in the Euros final against England — has arguably taken his game to another level at Arsenal this season. Spain do need other players to kick on — Dean Huijsen switching his allegiance from Netherlands last year could be a major boost if he thrives at Real Madrid — but they still look the team to beat.

Jeff Carlisle: It has to be Spain. They’ve been wiping out their opponents in qualifying by a combined score of 15-0. Obviously there will be sterner tests once the real thing starts, but for now they’re unstoppable. Mikel Merino is banging in the goals — so is Mikel Oyarzabal — and Pedri has been imperious in midfield. Lamine Yamal was injured for the last two games and Spain didn’t look bothered at all.Even with Robin Le Normand injured out injured for the rest of the year, the defense still looks solid with Aymeric Laporte and Huijsen anchoring the back line. Besides, when you’re possessing the ball over 75% of the time, like Spain did in its last two matches, they are absolutely cutting off the oxygen to teams, giving them little to no chance of threatening La Roja‘s goal. This is also a team with loads of experience, having claimed the Euro 2024 title. They know how to come through in big matches.

ENGLAND (3 votes)

Last World Cup win: 1966
FIFA rank: 4

Julien Laurens: The biggest factor here besides England’s talent is that they finally have a manager who is not afraid of making big calls and being honest about it. Thomas Tuchel can deal with big egos better than anyone else, having worked for high-profile teams from Chelsea to Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich. He has extensive experience managing unhappy players and leaving behind anyone who isn’t on board with his philosophy and team spirit. One of the best tacticians in world football, Tuchel is the right guy to finally lead England to victory.

The Three Lions have one of the most talented squads of players, and bags of experience at the club level, for him to choose from — many of whom were part of England’s run to the finals at the last two European Championships. Striker Harry Kane is in the form of his life, there is depth in a lot of positions and a fresh generation of young stars pushing hard for a starting spot or a place on the plane next summer. (Seriously, take your pick from Elliot Anderson, Alex Scott, Adam Wharton, Morgan Rogers … need I say more?)

Marcotti questions Tuchel’s comments about Bellingham, Kane and Foden

Gab Marcotti believes Thomas Tuchel should “never say” Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane and Phil Foden can’t play together. Cole Palmer will come back from injury fresh and rested, ready to have a big impact whether as a starter or as a sub. And leaders like Kane, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice or Marc Guéhi will shine. Tuchel also explained the obvious this week: Kane, Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden can’t start together. It didn’t work in the past, and it won’t work at the World Cup this summer. The team would not be balanced enough, and in this structure, it is not possible to have them three together from the start. This England team will be built differently, on and off the pitch and that will be the reason for their success.

Bill Connelly: They currently have the best combination of talent, depth, coaching, center forward play and good health. (Spain would be my answer, if not for those last two parts.) Tuchel’s combination of caution and individualized tactics should work as well as anything in a long combination with so many knockout rounds, and while he probably doesn’t have the fullback situation figured out as well as he would prefer, no one does. This is a battle-tested squad with a bench loaded with players would start for all but the most elite countries in the world. They’re in great shape, and if the overall health of the squad hasn’t fallen apart seven months from now, they’ll have everything they need.

Gab Marcotti: I’m applying the process of elimination here. Right now, Yamal and Pedri are injured (sorry, Spain); Brazil have a lot to prove under Carlo Ancelotti; Argentina look good, but we haven’t had repeat champions in my lifetime. Right now, logic says England or France, except after 12 years of Deschamps, I can’t help but feel things might be getting a little stale for Les Bleus. So whatever, I’ll bite. Why not England? Why not Tuchel to make history as the first foreign manager to lift a World Cup? Why not an end to 60 years of hurt and humiliation? Darn, can’t believe I said that. But you did ask for “right now,” so …

FRANCE (2 votes)

Last World Cup win: 2018
FIFA rank: 3

Beth Lindop: While I think Spain are possibly the most balanced team in world football, I’m opting for Les Bleus. They are no strangers to World Cup success, having followed up their 2018 triumph by reaching the final in 2022.

In terms of attacking firepower, I think they’re pretty unrivaled at the international level. Kylian Mbappé has been in fine scoring form for Real Madrid this season, while Ousmane Dembélé is now officially the best player in the world thanks to his Ballon d’Or win, though his campaign so far has been disrupted by injury. With the likes of Hugo Ekitike, Bradley Barcola and Désiré Doué in the squad, Didier Deschamps has an embarrassment of attacking riches at his disposal. And, at the other end of the pitch, Dayot Upamecano, Theo Hernández and William Saliba are also in great form. The squad is really strong in all departments.

Why is Kylian Mbappe feuding with a French rapper?

Julien Laurens explains why the feud between Kylian Mbappe and French rapper Orelsan might be down to a misunderstanding.

Ryan O’Hanlon: They’ve made the past two World Cup finals, and the last time they lost a knockout game at a World Cup, Barack Obama was the U.S. president and England was still part of the European Union. Their potential front three of Mbappé, Dembele, and Michael Olise is better than anything any club team can offer. Their starting center backs are currently starting for club teams that have allowed 11 combined goals through their first 21 matches of domestic play. This will be the most talented team at the tournament next summer — and it won’t be close.

ARGENTINA (1 vote)

Last World Cup win: 2022
FIFA rank: 2

Fans surround Argentina bus to watch Messi train

Hundreds of fans gather as Lionel Messi and the Argentina team train in Spain ahead of the Angola friendly. Rob Dawson: Managing the climate in the U.S., Mexico and Canada will be key for whoever lifts the trophy, and the European nations are going to struggle. Argentina got over the line in Qatar, and the core of that squad is still here. Lionel Messi — if he plays — is unlikely to have the same impact as last time, but they’ve got Emiliano Martínez, Cristian Romero, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández and Julián Álvarez around him. It’s a formidable spine to the team. World Cups are won by sides that can grow into a tournament, and Argentina have got invaluable inexperience from four years ago. They’re the ones to beat.

Opinion: MLS takes on risk in July-May calendar, but Apple deal change is positive

ASN’s Brian Sciaretta offers up his thoughts on the big announcement from MLS with the change of its schedule and the altering of the its broadcasting deal with Apple TV.

BY Brian SciarettaPosted November 14, 2025 11:00 AM

MLS MADE THE historic announcement on Thursday that the league was going to switch scheduling and adopt a season that aligns with the global game. The league will now begin in the late summer, take a winter break, and resume in the spring. The goal is to take advantage of transfer markets, be able to respect FIFA international windows, and have the playoffs go uninterrupted.

Per the release: “The 2027-28 MLS regular season will begin in mid-to-late July 2027 and conclude with the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs and MLS Cup presented by Audi in late May 2028.”

Overall, the league is painting a nice picture on what is a big risk. Sure, the current schedule has problems. But some of those problems are real, and some of those problems are overblown in this announcement. But moving to a Summer-Spring season also creates news problems and doesn’t necessarily fix the existing problems.

Weather

For some of the league’s teams, this switch will not change much in terms of the environment of their home games. But for other teams, there are going to be a lot more cold weather games.

After this current November international break, only eight MLS teams and seven MLS games remain. Under the new switch, all 30 teams will have to play another month into mid-December. In the later stages of the playoffs, fans are willing to put up with more because of the importance of the games. But midseason games in cold weather?

That is not something that should be easily brushed aside. MLS is not the first league to have tried this. In 2010, the Russian Premier League switched from a calendar year to Summer-Spring like MLS now. The results were disastrous. Reuters had a feature six years after the switch highlighting the falling attendances, frequently cancelled or moved games, and a decline in fan interest.

MLS has enough teams either in manageable winter climates or indoor stadiums where the results won’t be as drastic. But they could have a similar impact on many of the league’s bigger teams.

MLS has different climate constraints than most of Europe. Had most of Europe’s leagues had weather similar to Chicago, Toronto, Montreal, Colorado, Salt Lake, Minnesota, Columbus, or Cincinnati, would they have had their schedules the same as they do now?

With this switch, MLS made it more difficult to get fans to go to home games for a big part of the season.

Footprint remains similar

In terms of the number of months in a year MLS games will be played, the footprint on the calendar year will be smaller. The new proposed winter break is essentially the same length of the current offseason. Now, on top of that, there is a new offseason in June through mid-July.

To be fair, MLS in June is historically a mess with major international tournaments and this eliminates that mess altogether. That is good.

The flow

MLS will now adopt a winter break in the middle of the season. While the Bundesliga has a winter break, the MLS winter break will be longer than any other top league. It will be like what we see in the Danish Superliga. It will now become the only major North American sports league that pauses for two months and them resumes.

The question is how do the league’s existing fans adjust to such a big interruption to the flow of the season? Maybe it will not be an issue or maybe the season’s momentum will be lost? Right now, it’s all just a guessing game, or a risk.

Transfer market

In the media release from MLS, the top two reasons for this change were related to player signings: “optimize global transfer market activity” and “maximize player signings.”

There are some merits to this. There are deals that do not happen over the summer because teams do not want to lose a key player in midseason. Those deals would likely happen if the season is yet to begin.

https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1985420499141476567&lang=en&origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americansoccernow.com%2Farticles%2Fopinion-mls-takes-on-risk-in-july-may-calendar-but-apple-deal-change-is-positive&sessionId=83110e758a8d72f364df0699fa9dba259df27580&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px

With regards to selling players then in January, team are dealing with limited needs and the players getting sold do not have a preseason to try to adjust.

That said, there are a lot of important leagues that operate on a calendar year and still manage to sell players sufficiently. Brazil’s Serie A and most South American leagues are on a variation of a calendar year. These leagues also continue to be major sellers in the world market.

It is a little overstated. Top young players have been sold from the league at a sufficient pace.

As for the buying side, MLS teams have been aggressive regardless of time of season or year. Many of the top imports within the league have arrived midseason, and there hasn’t been much complaining. Sure, if Messi arrived in Miami before the season started in his first year, it would have resulted in them making the playoffs.

But for most of the recent substantial imports – such as Heung-Min Son – joined midseason. With the league’s playoff format, having these players there for the playoffs is really the most important thing.

Playoffs

MLS said that the league is exploring new playoff formats to go along with this schedule change. Regardless of how the playoff changes, it is a big win that the playoffs, nor the stretch run leading to the playoffs, will be affected by the three FIFA international windows in the fall. The September, October, and November windows break up the flow of every league but it is even worse to be deciding titles and elimination during this run.

The talk about which American sports leagues MLS has to compete for viewership is off base. No matter what time of year, the NFL, MLB, NBA, or NHL is ongoing. These decisions need to be made independent of other leagues. If anything, it’s harder now for the MLS playoffs to compete against the NBA and NHL playoffs along with the start of the MLB season.

But the fact that the MLS playoffs are now uninterrupted is good.

Bottom Line

There is no crystal ball to tell how this is going to go. It seems like there is a lot of risk to fix problems that were exaggerated.

https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-1&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1989079677974245865&lang=en&origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americansoccernow.com%2Farticles%2Fopinion-mls-takes-on-risk-in-july-may-calendar-but-apple-deal-change-is-positive&sessionId=83110e758a8d72f364df0699fa9dba259df27580&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px

But it does help with not having the league playing in June during international tournaments and it does help with the playoffs going uninterrupted and into nicer weather.

There will be a lot of challenges, and it won’t always be easy for fans. All we can do is hope it works.

Apple TV altered

MLS also announced on Thursday that its broadcasting deal with Apple TV will be altered. Instead of having a separate MLS package on Apple TV, MLS games would now become part of the general Apple TV package. Like with the previous deal, MLS season ticket holders will get an Apple TV package included with their season tickets.

https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-2&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1989084820249723074&lang=en&origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americansoccernow.com%2Farticles%2Fopinion-mls-takes-on-risk-in-july-may-calendar-but-apple-deal-change-is-positive&sessionId=83110e758a8d72f364df0699fa9dba259df27580&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px

Whatever the numbers were behind this deal, it’s a good move for all parties. MLS is a league that is trying to grow and expand. It’s very hard to do that behind a paywall. Apple TV is still a paywall, but it has a massive market behind it. In total there are 45 million Apple TV subscribers and now MLS will get to push into those numbers as opposed to only those that bought the MLS package. This is the way to expand.

MLS commissioner Don Garber addresses lingering questions after league flips calendar

Pamela Smith / AP PhotoBy Paul TenorioNov. 15, 2025 7:00 am EST

PALM BEACH, Fla. — MLS commissioner Don Garber couldn’t help but smile as he walked quickly through the lobby of the Four Seasons less than an hour after the league’s board of governors meeting adjourned. It was a hint of what he would announce an hour later.For the past two years, owners had studied, analyzed and debated the future of the league. On Thursday, they voted to move forward. The board approved a plan to flip the calendar to run from mid-July through the end of May, syncing MLS with many of the top leagues in the world, setting it up to take steps forward in its sporting product and shifting its biggest games to a more attractive spring window for media partners.League owners also approved a plan to overhaul the regular season and are mulling changes to the postseason format. MLS also announced changes to its partnership with Apple, which takes the league out from behind the paywall of MLS Season Pass and puts it on to the Aple TV streaming platform, where it will be available for tens of millions of subscribers.Garber declared the calendar change, “one of the most important decisions in our league’s history.” And as he sat to speak with reporters, his optimism about what the day meant for the future of MLS was clear. Garber discussed many of the finer details — and some of the questions that linger after such a seismic decision.The concern voiced by most fans centered on how colder weather markets would handle games played in November and December, and potentially an extra week or two in February. Garber said the work the league did to study the issue convinced those markets it would not make a massive dent on their business. Some teams will have to make updates to their facilities, but others won’t, he said. And the overlap of seasons means major changes can mostly be avoided.

“We’re (already) playing games in November now, and it could be really cold in those same markets,” Garber said. “It could be really cold in December. It could be really cold in other months. We’re talking about a couple of games (being added), so I don’t know that it makes sense for a team, for a handful of games, to dramatically change their infrastructure.“It’s not like this is as traumatic as I think most people think. When we were going through this process, 92% [of the footprint] is exactly the same window. MLS Cup was in Toronto in December, and it was really, really cold. It could have been in Toronto this year if they had a good season, right?”

Seattle Sounders win 2016 MLS Cup in Toronto

The Seattle Sounders won 2016 MLS Cup in Toronto, which was played in DecemberClaus Andersen / Getty ImagesGarber credited owners for being willing to take on such major changes in order to push the league forward. With 30 ownership groups, the idea of unanimity is long gone. But the league was able to get an overwhelming amount of support for this vote.“They want to push the envelope,” Garber said. “They’re impatient to continue to ensure we’re capturing the opportunity. They’re willing to make decisions … that might not be in their individual interest.“This is the right move,” he continued. “Moving to the international calendar would have been unthinkable years ago. We didn’t have the ability to manage it with our facilities, and we didn’t have strength and commitment within our fan base. So while this will have, in the short term, a disparate impact on certain teams, you know, I watched a (Canadian Premier League) championship where fans were packed into a small stadium and players played in a foot of snow. Now we probably would have rescheduled that game, but I think it speaks to the soccer fan here in this part of the country (who are) committed and they believe in their team.“I can remember back in the day, people said, why won’t you do the calendar? People go to NFL games when it’s cold. I’d say, ‘Well, actually it’s not the players, it’s the fans and it’s our facilities.’ Do we have heated fields? Do we have the way to manage what could be cold weather in markets from a hospitality perspective, and all of that are building blocks that needed to happen over time.”What You Should Read NextMLS calendar flip is a big step, but not the only step, toward greater global relevanceBig change is coming to MLS in the summer of 2027, but what else needs to happen for the league to increase its profile?

Somewhat swallowed by what may be the biggest change in the league in 20 years was the news about changes to the Apple deal. With Season Pass eliminated, subscribers tuning in to watch Severance or Pluribus — or Ted Lasso, which returns with Season 4 in 2026 — can now watch MLS, as can any Formula 1 fans that subscribe for the start of that deal in 2026.Importantly, Garber said the terms of the deal with Apple also changed — though he declined to disclose any details. Sources, however, confirmed Sportico’s report that the deal will now end after the 2028-29 season, three and a half years earlier than expected.“This wasn’t about MLS Season Pass not working,” Garber said. “It’s about, how could we work with Apple, who had a vision for what Apple TV could be, and where sports would fit into that, and how could MLS be a bigger part of a broader distribution vehicle for our league?“Yes, we’ll have different economics. The term will change. The financials will change. And all that’s very positive for us.”

Garber remained bullish on the league’s decision to take all of its local, national and global rights to one streaming partner. The Apple deal has faced harsh criticism by taking MLS out of typical linear rotation — though MLS does maintain a deal with Fox that airs 34 regular season games, eight playoff games and MLS Cup — but the commissioner was firm in his belief it was the right decision.

MLS airs its matches on Apple TV

MLS is bringing its matches outside of a separate paywall on Apple TVIsaiah Vazquez / Getty Images

“We need to take a step back and understand that we (foresaw) the disruption of the sports media space three to five years ago and had a vision to have every single game be treated exactly the same, have those games be globally distributed, because we knew we would continue to sign well-known international players,” Garber said. “In this case, look at [Lionel] Messi, Son [Heung-min] and [Thomas] Müller, just what’s happened this year, and what our viewership has been in Korea, and what we continue to do in Argentina, and the excitement that is existing in Europe with players (who have) only been in our league for a number of months. And it was all part of a grand plan that took some risk, and I think it speaks to the way this ownership group has continued to evolve, where doing things the way it used to be done is not part of the lexicon of the MLS board.”A big part of these changes revolve around MLS’s place in the sports media economy. MLS has failed to deliver the type of audience needed to demand high-level media rights packages. It remains behind not just other North American sports, but also the Premier League here in the U.S.The move to flip the calendar is part of a plan to help the MLS business transition from a model that has thrived as a local entertainment business into one that can resonate nationally and globally.“I think the underpinning of professional sports is media, and in our case, it needs to be global media,” Garber said. “But you can’t have a great product unless you have an in-stadium experience that is really compelling and is saying to the world: Look what I’m experiencing here; you could experience that through a series of devices. So the two have to work together and I think (MLS) could achieve that. The EPL has achieved it. The NFL has achieved it. I don’t see any reason why we can’t.”Garber was asked how quickly that next media deal has to happen.“I think it certainly has to happen in order for us to to be what we want to be, which was going to require us to have more revenues to be able to continue to invest in both infrastructure, player development and signing great players so we could have a product that can compete with a very competitive soccer/football market globally,” he said. “So we look forward to continuing our relationship with Apple, and hopefully that grows our audience. And if our audience grows, that will deliver value for Apple and certainly deliver value for us, because we’ll have a larger audience to be able to think about: How could we monetize that sometime in the future?”To do that, MLS has to put a more attractive product on the field. Flipping the calendar is a tool in that aim. Lining up the transfer windows will allow MLS teams to do better business in the summer, both as a buyer and a seller. They will be able to attract more players coming out of contract, too.But if MLS is truly going to draw more viewers, the level of play has to go up. And to do that, the spending rules will have to change. Garber acknowledged that the league is studying how to modify them.

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi

Star players like Lionel Messi have called on MLS to loosen its rules on club spendingLeonardo Fernandez / Getty Images“We still believe that we’re operating in a very competitive market, in a business that still is growing,” Garber said. “I still think of MLS as a 30-year startup. So just eliminating all rules I don’t think would be prudent. And by the way, almost all leagues have rules. They might be different, [but] even football, soccer leagues have rules. They might be related to spending limits and the like, but there are rules everywhere. We just have our version of them.“We’re excited about the evolution of those rules. And we’re going to continue to work on that. The window for that would be the 2027 season. So similar to the calendar change. We went [into] a very comprehensive presentation to the board about what kinds of things we’re thinking about with our [sporting and competition] committee: research-backed analysis of what these things could look like, what impact it would have on on-field performance, what impact it would have on spending, how does it deal with competitive balance? I want to reiterate to everyone: this is not a bunch of people sitting behind a curtain and just making decisions, as many people think on social media. It’s data-driven strategic analysis, backed by research, so that when we make decisions, they’re achieving the goals we want to achieve.”To make those bigger roster-rule changes, however, the league will have to modify or negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement with the MLS Players Association. The current CBA runs through January 31, 2028 — a date that was pushed back twice by extensions in negotiations forced by MLS during and after the pandemic.Garber said he did not anticipate the expiration date of the CBA changing, but it’s hard to see how the league could reach its goal of implementing meaningful change to the roster rules by 2027 without a new CBA.“We’ve got a lot of work to do collectively to ensure that we’re doing the work on the league side and on the MLSPA side, to have a deal that will be part of the future evolution of the league,” Garber said. “I don’t expect that we would change the date, but … I have a lot of faith in our players. I care deeply for them. They’ve got good leadership and good representation, and I look forward to sitting down with them both in the short-term as it relates to finalizing whatever we need to finalize on the transition, and then continuing to talk as early as we can, so that we can be in a good spot when the CBA expires.” By Paul Tenorio Senior Writer, MLS

Trinity Rodman negotiations reach NWSL commissioner as English teams express interest in U.S. star

Washington Spirit forward Trinity Rodman in green warm-ups before the team's NWSL quarterfinal match.

Washington Spirit forward Trinity Rodman will be a free agent this offseason. Scott Taetsch / Getty Images

By Meg Linehan and Tom Bogert Nov. 15, 2025Updated 8:37 am EST

Trinity Rodman’s representation is in negotiation with the National Women’s Soccer League over her future in the league, as interest from teams abroad continues. While the Washington Spirit would like to retain Rodman, the talks are currently beyond the club’s control due to existing roster constraints, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. The 23-year-old will be a free agent this offseason.Rodman’s agent has spoken directly to commissioner Jessica Berman about deals to keep her stateside; however, one of the key points of contention is the player’s salary. Under the current salary cap, teams outside of the league can offer far more than the Spirit — or any NWSL team. Rodman’s team has had talks with at least three teams in the English Women’s Super League, according to sources familiar with the discussions.The Spirit declined to comment, and the NWSL did not respond to a request for comment by the time of publication.The NWSL operates under a salary cap, currently set at $3.3 million at each club. That maximum will rise every season until it hits $5.1 million in 2030, in accordance with the most recent collective bargaining agreement between the NWSL Players Association and the league.While the minimum player salary for this season is $48,500 and will rise to $82,500 by 2030, there is no maximum salary for an individual player. Still, the Spirit currently has 27 players’ salaries to cover (with three players on loan), whereas teams in Europe do not have to abide by such caps.After her breakout rookie season in 2021, Rodman signed a three-year contract extension with an option for a fourth year, which was exercised this year. In 2022, the deal, worth $1.1 million, made the then 19-year-old the highest-paid player in the league at the time.Rodman told ESPN’s Futbol W at the start of the season that she has “always thought about playing overseas at some point” in her career. The Spirit’s owner, Michele Kang, owns multiple teams across the U.S. and Europe, including OL Lyoness and London City Lionesses and considers herself a “globalist” when it comes to player movement, but has made it clear that keeping Rodman has been a top priority.“We’re going to do everything in our power to hopefully keep her here,” Kang told reporters in March. “She’s an integral part of our success, our success meaning the Spirit as well as NWSL.”

Trinity Rodman was a key goalscorer in the USWNT’s gold medal run at the 2024 Paris Olympics.Daniela Porcelli / Getty Images

Multiple U.S. players have made the move to Europe this season, including defender Naomi Girma and former Angel City forward Alyssa Thompson, both of whom went to Chelsea. While it isn’t the only draw, the ability for overseas teams to pay higher salaries is a factor in the growing global market.In March, Kang ruled out a loan for Rodman to one of the other teams in her multi-club investment company, Kynisca Sports International, but said that players should experience different types of soccer throughout their career.“The European players should actually go at some point to experience the American football or different football. The same thing with the American football players as well,” Kang said. “Experiencing different styles, different leagues, it’s actually a good thing.”The Spirit selected Rodman with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 NWSL Draft, and the teenager had an instant impact. She was named rookie of the year in 2021, recording seven goals and seven assists, including one to Kelley O’Hara against the Chicago Stars to secure the team’s first NWSL Championship title.

Before her time in NWSL, Rodman was a standout for the U.S. youth national team, scoring nine goals in the team’s successful 2020 Concacaf Women’s U-20 Championship. She has been equally as impactful for the senior national team. Rodman has 11 goals and nine assists in 47 games with the U.S. women’s national team. She was one-third of the publicly-branded “triple espresso,” alongside Sophia Wilson and Mallory Swanson, who led the U.S. to gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics.Rodman has spent much of this season dealing with injuries, first with a persistent back problem that limited her to 15 appearances and nine starts through 26 regular-season games.Upon her return in October, she sprained her MCL during a Concacaf Champions Cup match, keeping her out of the Spirit’s final two games of the season. She was on the bench for Washington’s penalty kick shootout win over Racing Louisville in the NWSL quarterfinals last week, but never changed out of her warm-ups, instead helping guide players from the sideline.Still, she has been impactful for the Spirit, playing a contributing role to Washington securing the No. 2 spot in the NWSL standings. She has been impactful for the NWSL as a whole in terms of marketing, too, and was recently the only U.S. player featured in an Adidas campaign for the 2026 men’s World Cup.Rodman participated in full training on Friday ahead of today’s semifinal match at Audi Field between the Spirit and the Portland Thorns. By Meg Linehan and Tom Bogert

Jesús Pérez: Mauricio Pochettino’s right-hand man and the USMNT’s eyes and ears

Paul Tenorio Nov. 13, 2025

If you look just over the shoulder of Mauricio Pochettino as he roams the sideline during a U.S. men’s national team game, you’ll find his top assistant, Jesús Pérez, in a place he finds most comfortable.“Two or three yards behind the coach,” Pérez said.Within that short distance, there is a massive difference, he insists. There is a gulf between thinking through decisions and actually making them — and the consequences that come with those choices.“When you are No. 2, you see things,” Pérez said. “But when you are No. 1 … wow, the map is bigger.”Those three yards, however, do not minimize the importance of Pérez’s role on the U.S. staff. Pérez has worked at Pochettino’s side since 2010, rising from analyst at Espanyol to the coach’s right-hand man at Southampton, Tottenham, PSG, Chelsea and now the U.S. He has an outsized impact on the national team as both an integral on-field coach and a chief of staff of sorts, keeping a ulse on every department and connecting the pieces to keep the organization running smoothly.Pérez is always there, whether it’s in stadium suites scouting games of national team players, leaning against the wall during postgame press conferences or running meetings across a number of departments. He is, as Pochettino describes it, the “hands-on coordinator.”“Jesús is someone who coordinates the professional areas and ensures that integration with the staff, whether from the clubs or the national team, [and] allows us to have better communication channels,” Pochettino told The Athletic. “Where everything can flow more smoothly, preventing any problems and ultimately providing the players with a better platform to perform.”

Jesus Perez talks to the USMNT during pregame warmups vs Japan

Jesús Pérez commands the attention of the USMNT during pregame warmups before a September friendly vs. JapanJohn Dorton / ISI Photos / USSF / Getty Images

Pochettino is the face, figurehead and the ultimate decision-maker — those three yards matter. But Pérez grinds behind the scenes to give the staff, and its leader, the best chance at being successful. More importantly, the 54-year-old has become a trusted advisor that Pochettino has leaned on for more than a decade and a half.“He’s a very important person, because, over the years, besides being an important person on the staff professionally, he’s also become a friend,” Pochettino said. “That’s something that doesn’t always happen, especially in the professional sphere like in this sport. That’s something beautiful to experience, because we’re a group of people who have known each other for many years and who have also found common ground, who share life values, not only professional values, but human values. And I think that’s what makes it unique. Within the friendship and within the professional side, that makes us respect each other. That constant challenge of always being better is what’s always the priority — in our entire relationship. And I think that’s something beautiful.”

‘You’re a strong boy’

The memory still sticks in the back of Ryan Mason’s mind.It was preseason at Spurs under Pochettino, who gave him his Premier League debut. The style of play under the Argentine manager was intense, and they were going through a demanding training session. Mason was hitting a wall when he heard Pérez’s voice.“Mase, you’re a strong boy!” the coach shouted.“He was so good on the mental side of it,” recalled Mason, now head coach at West Brom. “The impact that had on my body was huge. I remember feeling it give me more life, give me more belief in my body. And I still hear it to this day. I can still hear it now. It’s something that stuck with me and sticks with me. You have your physical side, but a lot of people have limitations. Some people hit their ceiling because mentally they can’t break through certain barriers and challenges. Whereas I believe Jesús and Mauricio, they’re people that can really push through your barriers and help you reach higher levels.”

Pérez spent much of the early portion of his career as a fitness coach working in Spain and then Saudi Arabia. He got sick toward the end of his time in the latter – a stress-induced illness, he said – and nearly walked away from coaching before Espanyol’s sporting director at the time, Ramón Planes, reached out. Pochettino was looking for someone with Pérez’s background to join the club. The offer was intriguing enough to pull him back to work.Pérez established his value not just on the fitness side, but in other areas, too. He first caught Pochettino’s eye with his work ethic in a shared office, where he worked quietly but diligently. Then he showed an ability as an analyst.Pérez started working from up in the stands but one day offered advice that won Pochettino’s trust. At the time, the staff was discussing dropping a forward in favor of a midfielder because they were being overrun in the middle of the park. Pérez saw things differently.“If you allow me to say you should do the opposite, you are a brave coach, you are a brave team,” he offered. “I think what you have to do is tell one of the center backs to step up and compensate the situation and push high the line, don’t drop the striker.”Within two months, Pérez found himself on the bench with Pochettino.

Jesus Perez instructs Neymar at PSG

Jesús Pérez instructs Neymar at PSG in 2021Jean-Francois Monier AFP / Getty Images

“We brought him into the club in the youth academy,” Pochettino said. “From there, for six months we got to know each other, and then, when I had the opportunity to bring him into the technical staff with me, I made him the offer. He accepted, and that’s how we started working together in Espanyol.”

Still, that fitness background never left him. Players felt the assistant had a way of understanding and unlocking what it took to push them to the next level.

“He helped me to maintain my speed, my agility, my power and he helped me to even get better in my game and in my performances,” said LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, who played under Pochettino and Pérez at Tottenham. “I still do things (today), it’s part of my routine that I learned from them at that time. … I believe that in the shadow of (a) big manager, there (are) always big assistants. And Jesús is one of them. He is a really bright person, really intelligent, and he knows really well his job.”

Over 15 years together, between Pochettino, Pérez and the rest of the staff – which includes Miki D’Agostino (who played with Pochettino at Newell’s Old Boys) and goalkeeper coach Toni Jiménez – there is a chemistry and balance that is unique at the upper end of the sport. The coaches interact well and complement each other’s strengths.

Pochettino is a charismatic former player. Pérez is far more analytical. If Pochettino pushes hard on players, Pérez understands how to take the good-cop approach. At Spurs, if a player showed up with a new car or a fancy watch, Pérez was known to drop a comment in passing so the player knew the staff noticed. If a story is written or a TV report put out about the U.S. team, chances are Pérez has read it or watched it. In a way, he is Pochettino’s eyes and ears around the program.More on the USMNTGio Reyna’s USMNT return a ‘special situation’ that mixes Pochettino’s messageFor months, Mauricio Pochettino has preached how all players need to earn their USMNT places. Gio Reyna is the exception to his rule

“Jesús is an extension of Mauricio,” U.S. defender Tim Ream said. “He’s got his finger on the pulse with everything, sees all the small details, but also all the big ones as well. He’s very much the glue that kind of keeps all the departments together, and his communication is very similar to that of Mauricio. Lots of personal one-on-one conversations, but also making sure that everybody’s doing the right thing at all times and doing the things together and pulling in the same direction.”

Top managers typically churn through assistants — many leave for other jobs or simply burn out. That the staff has been together this long stands out. There is a level of loyalty that exists within the group. Pochettino typically negotiates contracts for his entire staff.

“He always did what he promised to me,” Pérez said. “ He said (when we) were in Espanyol, ‘We cannot give you the value that you have, but I promise you one day we will try to get the contract that you deserve.’ And since we arrived to England, I never was worried about my contract. When he asked me, you know, what do you think about your contract, I said, ‘Whatever you decide. For me, it’s fine.’ That’s my answer in the last 15 years, and it will be the same forever.”

Pérez was linked to possible top jobs in England, but never took one. Even now he basically laughs off a question about it.

“The credit is his credit,” Pérez said. “It’s Mauricio’s credit. It’s not because I want to be humble, but I know how this business works. If people want to give me some credit, fine. I’m sure some qualities probably are (from) myself. But Mauricio was doing great before I joined the team and I’m sure if all of us, (if) we leave at some point, he will continue having success.”

Pérez insists he is focused on his role within Pochettino’s staff — of being the connector.

Jesus Perez and Mauricio Pochettino at USMNT training

Jesús Pérez has been by Mauricio Pochettino’s side throughout his career, for club and countryRodolfo Gonzalez / AP Photo

Building a national team

That role has been different in some ways with the U.S.

Coaches are not around players as much, which brings “completely different dynamics.” That doesn’t just mean in how hands-on coaches can be on the field, but also in some of the relationships and politics that happen behind the scenes. Players who play require less handling. You show them where and how to improve, but their morale is up. With the rest of the squad there is a constant need to stay on top of players’ mentality and belief.“The challenge in the club is to sustain the motivation, the energy, the readiness of the guys that don’t play, and to deal with everything that comes along — the results or decisions or transfers or politics,” Pérez said. “That’s consuming. But in the national team, you select a player, and if a player doesn’t want to come, (they) stay out. So in general, you shouldn’t have problems of motivation in the camp.”

What Pochettino, Pérez and the rest of the staff have learned, though, is there are many uncontrollable variables with the national team. You never really know what players will be available. Since taking over the national team in October 2024, this staff has dealt with numerous long-term injuries to key players, including Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, Sergiño Dest and Antonee Robinson. That has added to the already-difficult task of team-building.

“When we were discussing the job, you look at the list of the players you know, and you imagine the best version of everyone you know,” Pérez said. “And then (you have) every single situation, injuries or personal situations, and also every group has a past, so things don’t happen without reason. So, our duty was to go through one year knowing, assessing and digesting situations that came from the past, but trying to do (things) our way, with our circumstances. It was the real challenge.

“We want to win matches. We didn’t go to the U.S. to have an experience. We went there to increase our [experience], to play the World Cup. But we are there to win matches, to compete. The way to compete is maximizing resources, but we need to maximize the best group of players that they can be together.”

Jesus Perez addresses the USMNT

Jesús Pérez, right, addresses the USMNT during training in September 2025John Dorton / ISI Photos / USSF / Getty Images

That process hasn’t come without pain. The staff brought in numerous new faces and left out several regulars in a bid to increase competition and eliminate complacency. But the results that build belief in the process haven’t always been there. Pérez said there is still real conviction they have taken the right approach.

The staff seems to have unlocked something in their move to a hybrid back line that shifts from a three- to four-man look and utilizes wingbacks, a position of strength in the pool. They were also able to truly manufacture competition in a pool where it has often seemed obvious who the best players are.

“There are different ways to win matches, obviously we have our preference, but as Mauricio always says, we adapt to the players’ qualities and to the player’s state, and we are not a slave of one way or another,” Pérez said. “At the end of the day, the principles of the games are there. … But none of them are going to be right if you are not fully committed. Fully committed with no doubts. And that’s the basics. So before we talk (about) other things, we [must] feel that we have a group really committed. And if it was some noise around those circumstances, I think everything (is now) clear.”

With time winding down toward the World Cup, and with yet another camp with numerous key figures missing, Pérez said the coaches are confident they’ve gone through the right process to find the players they trust. That was part of why they spent so much time calling in new faces and looking at options beyond the previous core.

“We know exactly the big group of players that we can rely on,” Pérez said. “Depending on the circumstances, now it’s a matter of state and injuries. But we know (for example), if we call Alex Freeman, what Alex can give us. When we gave him the opportunity, we saw the potential. And now (he is) just getting better for the national team, for his club. But if we need to call Nathan Harriel, that probably has played less with us, we know him very well (too).”

Each player — and there have been 71 called into camp since Pochettino took over — has added value in working toward the end goal, Pérez insisted.

“That’s the biggest asset of the group,” he said. “That we are going to feel bad and sorry for the guys that probably at the end, they can’t make it, but we will give (them) credit and value for what they did for us and for the group, because without them, we couldn’t have the final group.”

For Pérez, that part of the process is critical to team-building. And delegating credit in the name of group success – that’s just part of Pérez’s process.

Jack Pitt-Brooke contributed reporting to this story.

2026 World Cup ticket prices jump; FIFA targets knockout rounds, USMNT games, cohosts

Gianni Infantino and Canada's prime minister Mark Carney

Chris Tanouye / FIFA / Getty Images By Henry Bushnell Nov. 12, 2025

FIFA hiked ticket prices for dozens of 2026 World Cup games ahead of the second phase of sales, which began Wednesday. The initial prices, described last month by fan groups as “super high,” “astonishing” and “unacceptable,” were already multiple times higher than those at previous World Cups. But, sensing strong demand, FIFA raised the cost of many tickets to new record-setting heights — the first large-scale implementation of its “variable pricing” strategy. The price of a Category 1 ticket to the 2026 World Cup final, the most expensive non-hospitality ticket, jumped from $6,730 last month to over $7,000 this month, according to multiple fans who gained access to pricing data. The cost of upper-deck tickets to the final also rose, with most now priced at $5,055 (up from $4,210 last month) or $3,450 (up from $2,790). Prices for many group stage games in the United States stayed stagnant. But tickets for the games in Mexico and Canada, which generally sold quicker in last month’s “Visa Presale” phase, got more expensive across the board, with some prices rising by around 25%, according to screenshots and data seen by The Athletic.

And in the knockout rounds, prices for every single match jumped in at least one category. For the first semifinal at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, a Category 1 ticket now costs $3,295 (up from $2,780 at the start of the previous phase). A Category 2 ticket is $2,350 (up from $1,920) and a Category 3 ticket is $930 (up from $720).In most stadiums, according to color-coded maps embedded in FIFA’s ticketing portal, Category 1 encompasses the entire lower bowl and most or all of the second deck. Category 2 is predominantly the upper deck along the sidelines, while Category 3 is the upper deck above either goal. Category 4 tickets appear to be extremely scarce — confined to the upper portion of a few corner sections in the upper decks of stadiums. (Fans buy tickets by category, and FIFA assigns the exact section, row and seat closer to the start of the tournament.)

FIFA has not said how many tickets are available in each category. In fact, soccer’s global governing body has not communicated pricing details to the general public at all, as it did ahead of past World Cups. It has tightly guarded prices, and hasn’t made executives available for interviews. It even refused to reveal prices to fans who bought the “right to buy” tickets and clamored for the transparency they’d been promised.

But on Wednesday, the ticket portal opened to a random selection of fans in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. They’d entered FIFA’s second lottery, the “early ticket draw,” and won the opportunity to purchase tickets to World Cup games in their country during a so-called “domestic exclusivity period.”

After hours-long waits in digital queues, they saw and helped reveal prices. Among the other matches subject to price hikes were:

The World Cup opener at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca
Canada’s opener at BMO Field in Toronto
Games in Toronto, Vancouver, Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara
The U.S. men’s national team’s second game, at Lumen Field in Seattle
The U.S. men’s national team’s third game, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif.
Every game from the round of 16 onward

Prices for the U.S. opener at SoFi Stadium did not change — perhaps because those tickets did not sell as quick as others in the first sales phase. On Wednesday, they were still listed at:

Category 1: $2,735
Category 2: $1,940
Category 3: $1,120
Category 4: $560

But for the USMNT’s game in Seattle on June 19, they rose by 13% in Category 1, 16% in Category 2 and 22% in Category 3, to:

Category 1: $605
Category 2: $470
Category 3: $225
Category 4: $90

Prices also rose for the USMNT’s third game, to:

Category 1: $910 (up 13%)
Category 2: $750 (up 24%)
Category 3: $340 (up 21%)
Category 4: $140

A full list of updated prices — and, in parentheses, the percentage increase compared to initial Oct. 1 prices — is below.

Every 2026 World Cup ticket price (as of Nov. 12)

Most of the following list has been sourced from screenshots and screen recordings of FIFA’s ticketing portal, plus other individual prices sent by fans to The Athletic.

Some of the numbers — including the $7,875 price tag for a Category 1 ticket to the final — have not been independently confirmed with 100% certainty, but everything seen by The Athletic on Wednesday aligned with a full list compiled by a fan that circulated Tuesday in online communities. (The fan told The Athletic they wished to remain anonymous.)

Some of the prices also vary slightly by currency. On Wednesday, games in Mexico were only offered to fans in Mexico, and the prices they saw were therefore in Mexican pesos. Ditto for games in Canada and Canadian dollars. The Athletic, though, has chosen to publish the prices in U.S. dollars that FIFA is offering this week to fans in the U.S. and elsewhere — which are always rounded to “0”s or “5”s.

2026 World Cup Ticket Prices Group Stage

Mexico opener (CDMX)	$2,140 (+17%)	$1,550 (+20%)	$925 (+24%)	$370
Canada opener (TOR)	$1,970 (+13%)	$1,430 (+15%)	$845 (+18%)	$355
U.S. opener (LA)	$2,735	$1,940	$1,120	$560
Group stage (LA, SF, NYNJ)*	$620	$465-500	$215	$60-105
Group stage (TOR)*	$505-525	$390-405	$185-195	$60-75
Group stage (PHI, MIA, DAL)	$445	$335-385	$155	$60-75
Group stage (VAN)*	$440 (+7%)	$375 (+21%)	$155 (+11%)	$60-70
Group stage (BOS, ATL, HOU, KC, SEA, GDL)*	$405-415	$300-330	$140-160	$60-70
Group stage (MTY)	$390 (+13%)	$285-325	$135-145	$60
Canada Game 2 and 3 (VAN)	$540 (+14%)	$455 (+28%)	$195 (+18%)	$80
U.S. Game 2 (SEA)	$605 (+13%)	$470 (+16%)	$225 (+22%)	$90
U.S. Game 3 (LA)	$910 (+13%)	$750 (+24%)	$340 (+21%)	$140
Mexico Game 2 (GDL)	$525 (+18%)	$405 (+21%)	$195 (+26%)	$75
Mexico Game 3 (CDMX)	$630 (+18%)	$490 (+21%)	$230 (+24%)	$90

*Excluding games involving host nation

2026 World Cup Ticket Prices Knockout

Round of 32 – LA – June 28	$750 (+13%)	$575 (+15%)	$290 (+21%)	$185
Round of 32 – BOS- June 29	$470 (+7%)	$390 (+16%)	$180 (+13%)	$125
Round of 32 – MTY – June 29	$400 (+8%)	$305 (+9%)	$150 (+11%)	$105
Round of 32 – HOU – June 29	$440	$355 (+6%)	$160	$125
Round of 32 – NYNJ – June 30	$715 (+8%)	$580 (+16%)	$265 (+10%)	$185
Round of 32 – DAL – June 30	$480	$385 (+7%)	$175	$135
Round of 32 – CDMX – June 30	$515 (+17%)	$405 (+21%)	$200 (+25%)	$125
Round of 32 – ATL – July 1	$440	$360 (+7%)	$160	$125
Round of 32 – SF – July 1	$665	$525 (+5%)	$240	$185
Round of 32 – SEA – July 1	$470 (+7%)	$390 (+16%)	$180 (+13%)	$125
Round of 32 – TOR – July 2	$545 (+14%)	$415 (+15%)	210 (+20%)	$135
Round of 32 – LA – July 2	$665	$530 (+6%)	$240	$185
Round of 32 – VAN – July 2	$500 (+14%)	$430 (+28%)	190 (+19%)	$125
Round of 32 – MIA – July 3	$505 (+5%)	$405 (+13%)	$175	$135
Round of 32 – KC – July 3	$470 (+7%)	$385 (+15%)	$180 (+13%)	$125
Round of 32 – DAL – July 3	$515 (+7%)	$420 (+17%)	$195 (+11%)	$135
Round of 16 – PHI – July 4	$760 (+19%)	$560 (+15%)	$290 (+21%)	$185
Round of 16 – HOU – July 4	$620 (+5%)	$505 (+12%)	$220	$170
Round of 16 – NYNJ – July 5	$980 (+10%)	$785 (+16%)	$365 (+11%)	$260
Round of 16 – CDMX – July 5	$695 (+18%)	$540 (+20%)	$275 (+25%)	$170
Round of 16 – DAL – July 6	$640	$515 (+6%)	$240	$185
Round of 16 – SEA – July 6	$695 (+18%)	$565 (+26%)	$270 (+23%)	$170
Round of 16 – ATL – July 7	$665 (+13%)	$525 (+17%)	$245 (+11%)	$170
Round of 16 – VAN – July 7	$730 (+24%)	$595 (+32%)	$305 (+39%)	$170
Quarterfinal – BOS – July 9	$1,270 (+13%)	$890 (+16%)	$590 (+22%)	$275
Quarterfinal – LA – July 10	$1,775 (+5%)	$1,220 (+6%)	$800 (+10%)	$410
Quarterfinal – MIA – July 11	$1,375 (+13%)	$955 (+15%)	$635 (+21%)	$295
Quarterfinal – KC – July 11	$1,265 (+12%)	$940 (+23%)	$535 (+10%)	$275
Semifinal – DAL – July 14	$3,295 (+19%)	$2,350 (+22%)	$930 (+29%)	$455
Semifinal – ATL – July 15	$2,895 (+13%)	$2,185 (+23%)	$780 (+18%)	$420
Third place – MIA – July 18	$1,070 (+7%)	$825 (+15%)	$395 (+10%)	$165
Final – NYNJ – July 19	$7,875 (+24%)	$5,055 (+20%)	$3,450 (+24%)	$2,030

Most other tickets, at this stage, are still for matches between unknown teams. Most matchups and game locations will be determined on Dec. 5 at the World Cup draw and shortly thereafter when FIFA sets the schedule.

Soon after that, FIFA will open a third ticket lottery phase, and its variable pricing strategy will likely kick in again.

By Henry Bushnell

Senior Writer, U.S. Soccer

9/5/25 US Men vs Korea Sat 5 pm vs Japan Tues 7 pm in Columbus, World Cup Qualifying, Leagues Cup Champ Seattle, Full TV Schedule

September 5, 2025September 6, 2025 gatorbest leagues-cup, mls, premier-league, soccer, us-soccer, usmnt

Around the World of Soccer

Interesting week of soccer I’ll start with Sad to see Wrexham’s Ollie Palmer’s farewell for those who watch We are Wrexham on FX or Disney+ Ollie was a big part of their multiple promotions – but his time with the club has come to and end. Also in the Championship American forward Josh Sargent Can’t Keep from Scoring as he notched a brace last weekend on his way to league leading 5 goals so far. Cool to see Pochitino Take in Ohio State College Football last weekend on Fox’s Texas vs OSU pregame show. Messi’s last home WC Qualifier at Argentina was last night. Another record signing on the ladies side as American & Angel City star Alyssa Thompson goes to Chelsea for $1.3 million-sad for my daughter who has season tix for Angel City FC. World Cup Tix Go on Sale starting next week unfortunately our closest locations are Atlanta & Kansas City. If you haven’t seen the Pulisic special series on Paramount plus its 8 episodes and worth the watch.

USA faces Korea Sat 5 pm then Japan Tues at 7:30 pm in Columbus on TNT, HBO, Peacock

So lets put it out there – I said it last week that Men’s Coach Bochitino has no clue what he is doing after again seeing what a pathetic roster he called in for this one of the last 10 games we will play before the World Cup. Now the media is finally starting to agree with me –ESPNFC Agrees Poch is Clueless. How he could leave home our starting GKs, starting 8, backup 6s, and outside backs is just beyond me. He should be getting this squad ready for battle against top 20 competition and instead he brought questionable MLS players in for their first camps. At least Pulisic is back and Dest and Weah. But there is still a lot of the core of this squad missing. I may be the one holding up the Go Back Home BOCHITINO POSTER in Columbus on Tuesday night. Clueless is all I can say at this point. I honestly think this guy is mailing this $6 million a year job in and laughing in our US faces. So what do I see this weekend? 1 loss and 1 tie. We’ll lose the first one to Korea and Son as he’ll torch our backline and its lack of speed. While Japan will match us in possession but will not beat us in the fortress that is Columbus with the American Outlaws in Full Voice. I hope we have a good crowd – though US soccer and Boch have given us NOTHING to get excited about. I truly thought Poch was gonna bring our A team and we would win both of these games this weekend. I guarantee if Nashville Headman BJ Callaghan who won a nations league and Gold cup with this team was in charge that is what would happen. But with Boch calling the shots its a lost and tie and him saying we need to play em better with more hart. Since I would have NEVER picked this US Roster– I have no clue who might start this weekend but lets try this.

Leagues Cup – Seattle Dominates Miami – Miami Fights Post-Game Disgusting

Seattle was truly spectacular last Sunday Full house in Seattle – as they destroyed Messi and Inter Miami 3-0 Hi-Lights on the night. After such a fantastic Leagues Cup that the MLS dominated – it was sad to see Miami players Suarez and Busquets just absolutely lose it after the game as the post game broke out into an all-out brawl. I am not sure MLS has punished Miami’s punks enough as Suarez (6 games) and (Busquets 2 games) were only kicked out of Leagues Cup games. Suarez spit on coach or security guard from Seattle he has to be suspended from MLS games too.

More USA Friendlies this Weekend and Tues in Columbus

USA v. South Korea (Saturday, 5 p.m. ET, TNT/Peacock)
USA v. Japan (Tuesday, 7:30 p.m. ET, TNT/Peacock)

If the U.S. men’s national team World Cup squad was one of those reality cooking challenge shows, we are at the stage where the clock is running down but the raw ingredients are still spread out all over the prep table, and it remains to be seen if we can combine them into any kind of competitive recipe. South Korea and Japan will be testing mid-tier opponents. Win one game, get Pulisic firing, and we can all feel so much better. Lose both and it is going to feel very, very dark. Two very different paths lie ahead. Here are the headlines to prepare you for all that is to come:
Christian Pulisic, Our Lord and Savior, Is Back
When the roster for the upcoming friendlies was announced last week, Pochettino said he hadn’t spoken with Pulisic since the Gold Cup, adding, “I think everything is behind us, all that happened in summer, and I think now we need to look forward.” We will find out the truth of that the moment Christian takes the field for his first appearance since that Nations League disaster back in March. He has looked spritely for Milan with a goal in his first two games, but must now play for the U.S. with the same dominance as he did in the commercials which were omnipresent this summer. Knowing Christian, he will be highly motivated to score. He knows one electric moment of football can change everything in the blink of an eye. I would settle for another goal testicled over the line. When I spoke to Tyler Adams, he told me the difference between the U.S. with and without Pulisic is that Christian is the one American player who can make something out of nothing. I both pray and expect that to happen tomorrow.

The Focus is Going to Shift Immediately from the Big Names Who Are Not There, to the Glut of New Ones Who Are ️
So much focus over the past weeks has been spent on the vast number of big-name players who were not called up. Make no mistake: this is an MLS-heavy, raw squad with some mighty omissions—not just reputationally in terms of the more familiar names like Weston McKennie and Gio Reyna, but also from a footballing perspective. Aidan Morris, who has been balling out for top-of-the-Championship Middlesborough, is outside looking in.

There are honestly so many questions all over the field. Who is the No. 1 striker? Who is our goalkeeper, out of a very raw group? Who are our leaders? The midfield group looks very green aside from Tyler Adams. There is always a sense with our squad, that the big names—McKennie, Reyna, Brendan Aaronson, Yunus Musah—will come back and save us. We often tell ourselves this team is just a placeholder and that the cavalry is coming. What if it is not coming? And this is it?
The U.S. are playing South Korea and Japan. Two teams who are well-drilled, intelligent collectives, primed to punish any mistake we make at high pace. They will be stern tests. The kind of quality we could expect to face if we make the knockout phase of the World Cup. This is a moment for the USMNT to prove themselves to themselves against teams at the level of Türkiye and Switzerland, the two sides who outclassed them in friendlies ahead of the Gold Cup.

One Thing Not to Worry About
Finally, don’t stress the noise from outside pundits. Their voices and opinions and insights are actually what you want. I laughed with Tyler Adams that the volume of noise we currently have in the United States is a tiny squeak compared to the booming torrent of punditry in England or Italy. Think about how many former NFL or NBA stars have platforms to make their opinions known.
A vast layer of pundits is ultimately a sign of a healthy football-sphere. Indeed, it will hopefully grow and grow as the profile of the game grows, and the U.S. men, please god, begin to capture the interest of the nation. That is the real story of the moment. This team needs to start winning. The empty seats at Gold Cup stadia spoke volumes about where this team is right now. Charlie Davies wrote this week: “There is already a worrying lack of enthusiasm bordering on apathy in the USMNT’s fan base at a time when positivity and optimism should be growing in anticipation of this huge moment in American soccer. I don’t even want to think about what the impact would be of another heavy loss at home.” It is hard to live out this team playing in the shadows like this. The truth is, we are in danger of becoming a club football country now. Liverpool-Arsenal felt like a massive rumble that captured the interest of American sports fans. The lack of casual chatter going into this U.S. game is deafening. This is the moment to change everything.

Got to Ref with Drew Emenhiser for the first time at Lawrence North Wed a little 2 man style.

Nice night for soccer with Jonathan and Andrew at Heritage Christian with the Girls Thursday night.

**All Youth Players who wear their Jersey to the Game will get FREE ADMISSION vs #19 Columbus North**

TV GAME SCHEDULE

Sat, Sept 6
9 am Fox Sport 2 Latvia vs Serbia WCQ
10 am CBSSN,Para+ Bolton vs AFC Wimbledon
12 noon FS2 England vs Andorra WCQ
2:45 pm FS2 Ireland vs Hungary WCQ
5 pm TNT, Tele, Max USA Men vs Korea
7:30 pm ESPN+ Charleston vs Indy 11
7:40 pm Tubi NC Courage vs Utah Royals NWSL
10 pm Tubi Bay FC vs KC Current NWSL
Sun, Sept 7
9 am FS1 Georgia vs Bulgaria WCQ
12 noon FS1 Lithuania vs Netherlands WCQ
2:45 pm FS1 Germany vs Northern Ireland WCQ
2:45 pm FS2 Poland vs Finland WCQ
2:45 pm ?? Turkey vs Spain WCQ
3 pm Para+, Prime Chicago Red Stars vs Orlando Pride NWSL
4 pm CBSSN, Para, Prime, Washington Spirit (Rodman) vs Seattle Reign NWSL
5 pm ESPN NY/NJ Gotham vs Angel City NWSL
7 pm Apple free Sporting KC vs Austin MLS
8:30 pm ESPN San Diego Wave vs Houston Dash NWSL
Mon, Sept 8
2:45 pm FS2 Israel vs Italy WCQ
8:30 pm Para+, Peacock El Salvador vs Suriname WCQ
9:30 pm CBSSN, Para Panama vs Guatamala WCQ
Tues, Sept 9
12 noon ESPNDes South Africa vs Nigeria WCQ
2:45 pm FS2 France vs Iceland WCQ
2:45 pm ?? Serbia vs England WCQ
3 pm ?? Wales vs Canada
7:30 pm TNT, Tele, Max USA Men vs Japan in Columbus, Ohio
9 pm Uni, TUDN Mexico vs Korea
Fri, Sept 12
2:30 pm ESPN2 Bayer Leverkusen (Tillman) vs Frankfurt
Sat, Sept 13
7:30 am USA Arsenal vs Nottingham Forest
10 am USA? Fulham (Robinson) vs Leeds United (Aaronson)
12 noon Para+ Juventus vs Inter
12:30 pm CBS NC Courage vs Angel City NWSL
5 pm Tubi Orlando Pride vs Bay FC NWSL
7:30 pm Tubi KC City vs Washington Spirit NWSL
7:30 pm Apple Cincy vs Nashville
8:30 pm Apple Seattle Sounders vs LA Galaxy
Sun, Sept 14
9 am USA Burnley vs Liverpool
11:30 am USA Man City vs Man United
11:30 am ESPN+ M’Gladbach (Reyna, Scally) vs Werder Bremen
2:45 pm Para+ AC Milan (Pulisic) vs Bologna
3 pm ESPN+ Barcelona vs Valencia
3 pm ESPN Chicago Red Stars vs Portland Thorns NWSL
6 pm Golazo, Para Utah Royals vs Houston Dash NWSL
8 pm Golazo, Para Seattle Reign vs Racing Louisville NWSL
Fri, Oct 10
8:30 pm TNT, Max USA Men vs Ecuador
Tues, Oct 14
9 pm TNT, Max USA Men vs Australia

=====RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ===

Got some Good BarBQ for your Summer Plans ? Try out the Best BarBQ in Town right across the street (131st) from Northview Church on the corner of Hazelldell & 131st. RackZ BBQ

Save 20% on your order

(mention the ole ballcoach)

======================RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ======================

US MEN

USMNT September 2025 friendlies USA vs. South Korea: what to watch for
Pochettino, Pulisic must reconcile for USMNT to be at its best going into World Cup
USMNT roster omissions might hamper World Cup preparations
2025 USMNT Friendly: Scouting South Korea
USMNT players on risks, rewards of World Cup year transfers
How Columbus became a Fortress for the USMNT
Yanks abroad: Pulisic, Adams, Morris, Balogun stand out, Cremsaschi to Parma, and more
Mitrovic discusses U.S. U-20 team’s progress as World Cup nears
USMNT transfer grades: Analyzing every American move in the summer window
USMNT Embracing Competition to Impress Pochettino
The Group is Looking Lovely’: USMNT Looks to Build on Standard Set in Gold Cup
How the Legacy of Michael Bradley Remains with the USMNT
Cristian Roldan Added to USMNT Roster for September Matches against Korea Republic and Japan
USMNT Needs Momentum

Goalkeeping

Top Premier League saves from Matchweek 2 (2024-25) | NBC Sports
Top Premier League saves from Matchweek 3 (2024-25) | NBC Sports
Top Saves Leagues Cup
USL Championship Save of the Week – Week 26

NWSL

Chelsea breaks transfer record to sign USWNT’s Alyssa Thompson
Women’s transfer record broken again: Here’s what happened on WSL deadline day
Chelsea sign USWNT’s Alyssa Thompson from Angel City
Alyssa Thompson joins Chelsea: What to know about forward’s NWSL departure
Roundabouts, sheepherding, hot sauce: How USWNT stars adapt to life in England

MLS

Seattle Sounders humiliate Inter Miami: Leagues Cup title, trophy grand slam, and a night for the history books
Miami fight with Seattle after loss embarrassing
Shameful Miami after Leagues Cup loss to Seattle

WORLD

Lionel Messi on future with Argentina and 2026 World Cup: ‘I haven’t made a decision’
Lionel Messi gives frank assessment of 2026 World Cup hopes after Venezuela win
Lionel Messi says presence at 2026 World Cup is unlikely – ‘The logical conclusion is…’

Daniel Levy steps down as Spurs chairman after more than 2 decades with the club
Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe: ‘I don’t know if we’re ready for a 60-game

Unlike his Miami Teammates – Messi shows nothing but pure CLASS. The GOAT!

Reffing

Offsides?
8 Second GK Rule
Interesting Var Review Audio Fulham game Shame
Head EPL Ref Howard Webb Says Var Missed it Fulham Game

Pochettino, Pulisic must fix rift as USMNT prep for World Cup

Jeff CarlisleSep 4, 2025, 09:56 AM ET

Mauricio Pochettino and Christian Pulisic are back together, with head coach and player taking part in the U.S. men’s national team training camp ahead of this month’s friendlies against South Korea and Japan.

Just how “together” they are will be revealed over the next week and beyond, but make no mistake: they need to be on the same page if the U.S. is to reach its stated aim of making a deep run at next summer’s World Cup.This isn’t to say that the two have had a falling out, nor do they need to be best friends and have regular dinners together. But there has been a disconnect.

– USMNT transfer grades: Analyzing every American move in the summer window
– USMNT players on risks, rewards of World Cup year transfers
– USMNT roster omissions might hamper World Cup preparations

Pulisic waved off an attempt by Pochettino to sub him out of the third-place game at the Concacaf Nations League last March. He missed out on the recent Gold Cup two months later, and while USSF sporting director Matt Crocker said at the time, “We made the collective decision that this is the right moment for [Pulisic] to get the rest he needs,” the public backlash was intense, with former USMNT players, among them Landon Donovan, questioning the player’s commitment.

Pulisic’s response, in part, was to state in an interview with CBS Sports that he had offered to play in two pre-Gold Cup friendlies, but that Pochettino had turned him down. Pulisic later said in the interview that he didn’t understand the decision even as the manager explained he wanted just one roster for the entire Gold Cup program. While Pulisic’s impulse to defend himself is understandable, divulging some of the deliberations about his Gold Cup participation was a mistake and only served to annoy Pochettino. The U.S. manager responded, stating that he is “not a mannequin” and that he alone would decide who plays for the USMNT and when. When the roster for the upcoming friendlies was announced last week, Pochettino said he hadn’t spoken with Pulisic since the Gold Cup, adding, “I think everything is behind us, all that happened in summer, and I think now we need to look forward.”Left unsaid is how effective that approach will be if there hasn’t been any communication. To be clear, success at the World Cup doesn’t rest solely on Pulisic, as numerous moving parts need to align for a deep run to occur. The U.S. needs to sort out its goalkeeping situation. Right back Sergiño Dest has to be healthy, the better to augment the attack with his ability to deliver the unexpected. The same is true for Antonee Robinson on the opposite flank. Holding midfielder Tyler Adams needs to be at his ball-hawking best. One of the available strikers — be it Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, Josh Sargent, Haji Wright, etc. — needs to hit top form ahead of the tournament.But Pulisic’s combination of talent, creativity and experience remains a critical piece of the attack. When Pulisic plays well and is in full flow, the team usually follows suit. Scoring goals is the most difficult part of the game, and Pulisic remains a vital contributor to that aspect of the cause. Pochettino and Pulisic need each other for the team to succeed. Part of what’s at issue between Pulisic and Pochettino is that the U.S. manager is in the middle of attempting a cultural reset. That goes for everyone, from the biggest stars down to uncapped players who get called in. Pochettino is demanding total commitment, at least as he defines it. As fatigued as Pulisic was after playing over 50 games a season at AC Milan the last two years, his decision to sit out the Gold Cup, while offering to play in the two friendlies before the tournament, sent Pochettino a different kind of message.

“If you arrive to the camp and you want to spend a nice time, play golf, go for a dinner, visit my family, visit my friend, that is the culture that we want to create?” Pochettino said last May. “No, no, no, no, no. What we want to do is to go to the national team, arrive and be focused and spend all my focus and energy in the national team. If we want to be good in one year’s time, we need to think that today is the most important day.”The adjustment from the players — including Pulisic — to Pochettino’s approach has taken some time. Defender Tim Ream admitted after the Gold Cup that it had taken too long. At Tuesday’s media availability, Ream said that with players just arriving, there hadn’t been a team-wide meeting yet to discuss expectations, though coaches had been pulling players in for individual meetings.”We’ll sit down I’m sure [Tuesday] and have a discussion,” he said.”But for us, it is just the guys who were here during the Gold Cup … We kind of know what the standard needs to be and what it is going forward and just making sure that everybody’s being held accountable, pushing each other, helping each other, and making sure that we all know that we’re on the same page, we’re on the same team.”Pochettino was a top-flight manager for 15 years — with stops at Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea — before taking up with the USMNT. If there is to be movement in any direction, that will fall on Pulisic, because Pochettino won’t be changing his ways. The U.S. manager has made it clear that no one’s spot is secure. Weston McKennie was left off the current roster, and while Pochettino blamed his absence on a lack of rest due to participation in the Club World Cup, Tim Weah had a similar workload, yet was included in this camp. Relationships between players and coaches can be fluid, going through difficulties. Pulisic’s rapport with former U.S. manager Gregg Berhalter experienced some rough patches before the two found alignment ahead of the 2022 World Cup, in which Pulisic played a critical role in the U.S. reaching the round of 16. That could very well be the case with Pochettino and Pulisic. However, Pulisic and the rest of the team will need to adapt to Pochettino’s ways.

Proud Member of American Outlaws http://www.facebook.com/IndyAOUnite

Looking to Get a Professional Company Headshot? Check out https://capturely.com/ Tell Rob The Ole Ballcoach sent you and he’ll give you a deal.

DISCOUNT SMALL ENGINE & BIG ENGINE REPAIRS IN CARMEL

USMNT’s home crowd dilemma is US Soccer’s age-old problem

Guatemalan fans at the Gold Cup semifinals

By Paul Tenorio Sept. 5, 2025 10:00 am EDT

Since taking over as coach of the U.S. men’s national team last fall, Mauricio Pochettino has had a jarring introduction to some aspects of American soccer culture. He has felt it most acutely standing on the sideline and looking into the stands around him.Pochettino’s first competitive games in charge of the U.S. were opening acts in doubleheaders staged by Concacaf, meaning swathes of ticket holders for the late games, which featured Mexico, didn’t show up for the U.S. contests. Then, during the Gold Cup, Pochettino experienced the power of the immigrant communities in the U.S. as Guatemala fans far outnumbered Americans in St. Louis for the semifinal and Mexico supporters created a home-field advantage for El Tri in Houston in the final.Other games highlighted a lack of interest. Six games between September 2024 and July 2025 had 18,008 or fewer fans in attendance.For an Argentine used to diehard fans packing home stadiums, the huge numbers supporting visiting teams and the lack of U.S. fan support seemed to catch Pochettino off guard. After the final, he implored U.S. soccer fans to come out and support the team. “I would love to see my players playing with 70,000 people cheering,” Pochettino said in the postgame press conference in Houston. “We need the people. We need the fans. The fans have one year to realize how important are the fans in soccer.

“I think that today (against Mexico), like with Guatemala, it’s a scene in our country to see how important are the fans – to be in the stadium, to stay with the team, to support, not only through Instagram, social media or behind the TV. It’s (important) to be here and translate the energy.

“Football without fans? It’s impossible.

Mauricio Pochettino ha expressed his wish for packed home crowds – full of USMNT fans. (Robbie Jay Barratt / AMA/ Getty Images)

“Here, I think that it’s time to realize that we need the fans. … I think, I hope, and I wish, next time to play with full stadium, with our fans there cheering for the team and helping to achieve a good performance and good result.”The U.S. coach was wading into an attendance issue that has ensnared the program for more than a decade now. It traces back to a ticketing strategy built around revenue rather than accessibility, a team that has struggled on the field and the realities of playing a global sport in a country defined by its diversity.On Saturday, the U.S. will play South Korea in front of a 25,000 sold-out crowd at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey. Tuesday’s friendly against Japan at Columbus’ 20,000-capacity Lower.com Field is trending toward a sellout as well. Fewer than 600 tickets were available, including suites and premium options, as of Thursday night.The crowds are indicative of U.S. Soccer’s efforts to alter the equation and find the right mix of market, price point and opponent to balance sporting goals, fan engagement and revenue-driven realities. With what has long been expected to be a transformative home World Cup approaching, the efforts to reach new fans and bring them into the gates are as critical as ever to the short- and long-term growth of the sport. As the men’s team struggles to get results, making the games more accessible will be a vital part of any attempt to build excitement in the run-up to the tournament.

The slide is infamous in American soccer circles. As part of a presentation at a board meeting in 2017, U.S. Soccer executives presented how the federation’s ticketing strategy shifted from the 1998 World Cup cycle through to the 2018 cycle to emphasize smaller venues and higher ticket prices for U.S. games. Ticket prices in the 2002 cycle averaged $28.05. By the 2018 cycle, when the U.S. men missed the World Cup, the average price jumped to $97.06. Revenue more than doubled, from $7 million over eight games in the 2002 cycle to $17.6 million in the 2018 cycle. But it came at a cost of attendance and accessibility. In that same period, attendance dropped from 249,266 fans across eight games to 181,090.What You Should Read NextDoes USMNT have an attendance issue? The answer isn’t simpleThe USMNT’s friendlies against Canada and New Zealand were played with swathes of empty seats in the stadia – but is that cause for concern?

Undoubtedly, the socioeconomic makeup of those in the stadium shifted along with those fast-rising prices.U.S. Soccer chief commercial officer David Wright insists that the federation is “an organization that has evolved dramatically in the last three to five years.” But ticket prices for games can vary dramatically, based both on dynamic pricing and also on the business realities for U.S. Soccer.

“We’re a 501(c)(3), nonprofit, but as many people know, our ability to drive revenue is really important because it funds and candidly accelerates our ability in the sport,” Wright tells The Athletic. “Obviously, we’ve got our women’s and men’s senior national teams, but we have 25 other national teams that are really important to U.S. Soccer and our overall efforts throughout the game. We’re also thinking about coaching, we’re thinking about refereeing, thinking about participation, and have programming against all three to grow. So it takes resources. It’s always a balance between the business side, but then also providing access and accessibility.”

The USMNT takes on Japan, and Yuto Nagatomo, next week. (Koji Watanabe / Getty Images)

Tickets were available for the Japan friendly in Columbus for less than $50. The get-in price for friendlies in Austin and Colorado in October are currently $54 and $75, respectively. Tickets prices in New Jersey were not as friendly. The original get-in price for non-supporters in New Jersey was $50, but a month later that had jumped to $180.There have been at least some steps toward increasing that accessibility.U.S. Soccer recently reached a deal with the American Outlaws, its largest supporters group, in which all tickets for supporters in federation-hosted matches through October 2026 will be capped at $45 (plus fees), and will be sold directly by the Outlaws to members.The aim is not just to drive accessibility, but to bring new fans into the supporters’ culture.“Our supporter groups are the lifeline,” Wright said. “They provide incredible energy and atmosphere. I think it also speaks to our fan-first approach. We’re an evolving organization. We have great relationships with our supporter groups. And I think it’s just an acknowledgement that (they) are really important, and to be able to provide access in a really meaningful way is a win-win.”In a statement, Justin Brunken, co-founder of the American Outlaws said the partnership, “helps eliminate one of the biggest barriers — cost — and makes it possible for more passionate fans to stand, sing, and support together.”“This isn’t just about saving a few bucks,” the statement read. “It’s about keeping soccer grounded in community.”U.S. Soccer has also done more outreach toward college students to bring younger games into the stadium at discounted prices.The business side of U.S. Soccer has changed dramatically since 2017, which has also impacted the reliance on ticket revenue for the federation’s aims. U.S. Soccer brought all commercial work in-house in 2022, ending its longstanding relationship with Soccer United Marketing. Since the federation’s sponsorships have been moved in-house, commercial and event revenue has increased substantially, with projections above $200 million in total revenue.The federation also grew out its “advancement” team, which focuses on donations. Those efforts have brought in enormous donations from Arthur Blank for the new training facility and Michele Kang with a directive to grow women’s and girls’ soccer, as well as many other donations pointed toward everything from hiring Pochettino to growing youth programs or coaching and referee education. In prior years, U.S. Soccer raised between $4 to $6 million annually in contributions. That number jumped to around $70 million under the expanded advancement team.“As a percentage of revenue, (ticker revenue will) come down, but it doesn’t diminish the importance,” Wright said. “Not only is the revenue obviously important to fuel the business and to provide opportunities, but it’s obviously one of the most high-profile opportunities to engage with fans,” Wright said. “So the ability to have 20 to 25 marquee matches a year that provide access and leave an impact in a community, while also engaging millions of fans via social (media) and broadcast is really important. It’s something that we recognize, and obviously we’re leaning in on.”The strong expected crowds in New Jersey and Columbus show that the U.S. men can draw a crowd, but finding the right venue and the right opponent is an increasingly difficult dance.

It’s easy to point to some of the repeat visits to cities — Austin, Columbus, Cincinnati, St. Louis — and wonder how exactly U.S. Soccer makes decisions on where they play games. It’s not an easy process.

It starts with finding an opponent, which has been especially difficult in this cycle because the U.S. men are not playing qualifiers, but confederations are still going through their qualification process. That, combined with the Nations League, has decreased available opponents in every window.Once an opponent is found, John Terry, U.S. Soccer’s senior director of events, tries to narrow down markets based on a number of factors.Opponents often have preferences on how far they will travel based on their second opponent in the window and where that game is being staged. Brazil, for example, was willing to play the U.S. ahead of the Copa América, but only if the game was staged in Orlando. U.S. Soccer was willing to make that accommodation, and to play on a temporary surface at Camping World Stadium, in order to get a game against such a high-quality opponent.U.S. Soccer also has to find training facilities for both teams in markets — one reason why it hasn’t frequented the New York market as often, for example, and why Austin and St. Louis have been favorites for the team.The availability of venues in markets isn’t always simple either. In the fall, U.S. Soccer is contending with the NFL, college football, MLS and concerts. It has to think about the cost of playing on grass laid on top of turf — both in terms of dollars and in quality of play. It considers the size of the venue and the ticket demand in the market. And it isn’t picking a city based solely on what is happening in that window. It also has to consider future windows and look at where it can play games in future months. And, of course, it’s weighing those options simultaneously for both the men’s and women’s national teams.

Austin’s Q2 Stadium has become a popular site for the USMNT. (David Buono / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Even then, repeats can happen. U.S. Soccer had its October USMNT friendly scheduled in Austin against Ecuador for months when Concacaf put them in Austin for a Gold Cup group stage game this summer, for example. Meanwhile, travel for a team increasingly based in Europe has made it more difficult to schedule games on the West Coast. (Though the makeup of the roster under Pochettino has been swinging back toward a prominent mix of MLS players.) U.S. Soccer also tries to avoid traveling far distances between games in a window. There has been an effort in recent years to go to new markets, or to get back to cities for the first time in several years. That includes a friendly played in San Antonio, Saturday’s game in New Jersey — the first there since the U.S. lost to Costa Rica in World Cup qualifying in 2017 — and a reported friendly set for Tampa in November. “It’s not just because we’ve got a World Cup (coming), that’s a strategy that I think we’ve employed for a number of years now,” Wright said. “For us, it’s: How do you expose the sport to a variety of different markets, but also partner with local markets that really want you to be there?” In addition to all of those considerations, U.S. Soccer does think about trying to maximize home field advantage. But as the pro-Guatemala crowd in St. Louis showed, sometimes it doesn’t matter where the U.S. plays. The makeup of the country is such that it can lead to crowds that favor the visitors.That may not always be what the coach or team wants, of course. But for U.S. Soccer, there are still gains to be made in those crowds. “The amount of diversity in this country is a really, really powerful thing, and something that, as an organization, I think we’ve really leaned in and embraced,” Wright said. “If you’re a fan of the sport in this country, we believe we’ve got a real opportunity to engage with you. There’s about 130 million fans of the game. We expect that number to drastically increase coming out of the next summer. Not all those 130 million are passionate U.S. soccer fans, but they’re passionate about the game … And I think it is really powerful as we think about the future. It’s a huge area of opportunity.” Those points of connection will be the true measure of success of the World Cup, and that’s a process that has already started. The magnitude of the World Cup’s impact will depend on many things, including the results of the host team. But beyond what happens on the field, U.S. Soccer must find wins off of it, too. Getting the cities, venues and prices right to open the game up to fans can make just as lasting an impact. (Top photo: Joe Puetz / Imagn Images)

USMNT’s Balogun finally has his chance for a late first impression on Pochettino

By Henry Bushnell Sept. 3, 2025

U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, back with the national team for the first time in nearly a year, said Wednesday that the injuries that kept him away from the USMNT are “behind me.” “I’m in a good shape, and in a good way,” Balogun said via Zoom from U.S. camp in Morristown, N.J., ahead of Saturday’s game against South Korea. Those injuries cost him four consecutive U.S. camps, the team’s first four under head coach Mauricio Pochettino. Balogun, after starting or appearing in all nine A-team games for the USMNT in 2024 under former head coach Gregg Berhalter and interim Mikey Varas, missed camps in October, November and this past March due to injury. He was initially named in Pochettino’s pre-Gold Cup squad, but also withdrew from that camp due to an ankle ailment. “It was a tough period, but I think every athlete goes through that at some stage,” Balogun said. Another ankle issue in August cost him a preseason game and Monaco’s Ligue 1 opener. It was presumably part of the reason why the 24-year-old was not on the first version of the USMNT’s September roster, which was revealed last week. But when Brian White withdrew due to injury, U.S. Soccer contacted Balogun, who’d made his 2025-26 debut that past weekend, playing 90 minutes in a 1-0 loss to Lille. “I got the call — I can’t remember the date, exactly, but it was a bit late,” Balogun acknowledged Wednesday. “I was really happy,” he added. “It was important for me to be back with the team.” Several days later, he scored his first goal of the season in a 3-2 win over Strasbourg. Then he jetted across the Atlantic, to New Jersey, where he was one of the last to arrive at U.S. camp. Now, he will get his chance to make a delayed first impression. He is one of a few players who, at roughly the midway point of Pochettino’s tenure, are meeting and training under the new boss for the first time. “Everyone wants to make an impression,” Balogun said. “And I think that’s just natural, with such a big competition coming in 10 months, it’s important to leave your mark.” That “big competition,” of course, is the World Cup. The 2026 edition, slated for June and July in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, would be Balogun’s first. For roughly 11 months, the countdown to that milestone coincided with Balogun’s absence from the USMNT. Now, a first opportunity to impress the coach who’ll select the U.S. World Cup roster might lead some players to press, to over-exert, to try to be something other than themselves. “That’s part of the psychology, to not overdo it, because things will just become more complicated,” Balogun said. “The harder you try sometimes, the more difficult it is.” But Balogun is comfortable searching for and finding a middle ground, and pushing for a potential place in the U.S. starting lineup come next June. He’ll compete with EFL Championship leading scorer Josh Sargent and new Southampton signing Damion Downs for the prime minutes at striker in this camp, which also includes a friendly against Japan. “It’s something I’ve been doing all my career, fighting for my position and fighting to get in teams,” the former Arsenal academy product said. “I believe that’s a balance that comes naturally to me.” (Top photo: Sam Hodde/Getty Images)

Pochettino, ‘jealous’ of CFB atmospheres, wants Americans to share same passion with soccer

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - JUNE 29: Head coach Mauricio Pochettino of United States gestures before the Gold Cup 2025 Quarterfinals against Costa Rica at U.S. Bank Stadium on June 29, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)

By Henry Bushnell Sept. 5, 2025Updated 2:39 pm EDT

MORRISTOWN, N.J. — For Mauricio Pochettino, the 2025 Gold Cup doubled as a crash course in American soccer culture. First in half-empty stadiums, then in front of hostile crowds on home soil, the Argentine coach of the U.S. men’s national team seemed shocked by the lack of public passion for his team.After a Gold Cup semifinal against Guatemala and a final against Mexico, he spoke about the missing emotional connection between U.S. players and fans. “The fans,” he said, “have one year to realize how important fans are in soccer.”Ahead of his next USMNT camp, though, he learned that such passion exists in the United States — for the other type of football.Last Saturday, Pochettino visited Columbus, Ohio, for the Week 1 college football showdown between the universities of Ohio State and Texas. He stood among a crowd of 107,524 people, nearly all wearing red and silver for the Buckeyes. “It was amazing,” Pochettino said Friday ahead of the USMNT’s first of two September games (Saturday against South Korea).“For me, it was a massive surprise,” Pochettino continued. “I’m 53. It’s difficult to have this type of surprise. But to live the atmosphere that we lived there, three hours before, seeing the passion of the people, the atmosphere … the fans in the stadium, 100,000. I was so jealous.”

He was jealous, of course, because that type of passion often doesn’t follow the USMNT or any U.S. soccer team.“I was so jealous, I said, ‘I want to coach these teams. I want to be next,’” Pochettino said with a wide smile and a laugh.Throughout his three decades in soccer, he has played for and coached teams boosted by similar passion. He has seen it at Newell’s Old Boys and Espanyol, at Tottenham and Paris Saint-Germain.When he didn’t see it this summer — or when he saw it for Guatemala in St. Louis, and when he saw it for Mexico in Houston — he called it out.“The fans gave to you, to Guatemala, an unbelievable energy,” he said after the U.S. squeaked past Los Chapines in the semis. “That is football. That is football. When we say the connection between the fans and the team, that is the connection that we like to see in the World Cup. That connection that makes you fly. The energy that translates.”He said he saw Guatemala players crying after the loss and noted, “That is the way that we need to feel. And our fans need to feel the same. It’s not to come here to enjoy all the spectacle, and if you lose, nothing happens. … You play for your pride. … When we talk about culture, that is culture. … That is an important thing that we need to learn here in this country.”Pochettino saw an example of that kind of sports culture at 9 a.m. last Saturday, when he appeared on Fox’s Big Noon Kickoff pregame show in Columbus. He led an “O-H-I-O” chant. “We really feel the passion of the people here in this country,” he said Friday.And he knows that part of his job, as USMNT coach, is to try to create that passion for soccer. He talked Friday about being a “representative or ambassador” for the sport. “I think I feel a little bit of responsibility,” Pochettino said. “It’s our responsibility to translate to all these people that maybe are more focused on another sport like football, American football. It’s to try to convince them (to) share with soccer that passion. “If only a little bit we can translate to our sport, I think our players will appreciate a lot, and for sure (the fans) will help us to achieve or earn what we want.” (Photo: Stephen Maturen / Getty Images)

USMNT star Tim Weah doubles down on ‘evil’ comment about former players turned pundits

By Henry Bushnell Sept. 4, 2025

U.S. men’s national team forward Tim Weah said Thursday that he doesn’t regret calling former USMNT players turned pundits “evil” for their criticism of the current team.Weah made the comments earlier this summer in an interview for Christian Pulisic’s Paramount+ docuseries. The remarks aired in an episode released last month and reignited the public spat between active USMNT players and alumni.“I think those guys are chasing checks,” Weah said in the docuseries. “And for me, I just feel like they’re really evil. Honestly. Because they’ve been players, and they know what it’s like when you’re getting bashed. Those are the same guys that’ll turn around and shake your hand and try to be friendly with you at the end of the day.”“Don’t get me wrong,” he added, “I respect all of them. They were the players that I looked up to. But quite frankly, the guys before us didn’t win anything, either. Christian himself has had a better career than every single one of the guys who speak negative on us.”On a video call with reporters Thursday from U.S. camp in New Jersey, Weah was asked whether, in retrospect, he felt the term “evil” was accurate and appropriate.“One hundred percent — don’t regret anything I said,” he began. “But I’m fully focused on the positives now. I’m leaving all that negative energy out the window.”

Tim Weah, left, trains with USMNT teammate Folarin Balogun. (John Dorton / ISI Photos / USSF / Getty Images)

Weah continued: “I think right now it’s important to kind of shift the focus to what we’re doing as a group, and what this team is doing, and how we can execute performances and kinda take our game to the next level in order to be prepared for the World Cup. I’m 100 percent focused on that. And if that means blocking out all the noise, that’s what we’re gonna have to do. We’re just focused on what our main goal is. We’re, each camp, trying to build. I’m so happy to be back with the boys.”

Weah missed this summer’s Gold Cup while with Juventus at the Club World Cup. Then, last month, he completed a roughly $17 million transfer from Juve to Marseille — a club with whom his father, George, played for six months at the end of his career. The move begins as a loan deal but includes an obligation to buy after the current season. “The move to Marseille was a fun one, obviously, with my family history,” Weah said Thursday. “Joining the club, for me, was a no-brainer. I know the history of Marseille, how passionate that city is and how fans are and the team is. I knew it was the right place for me to be before the World Cup and building up to one of the biggest tournaments of our lives.” U.S. head coach Mauricio Pochettino left other regulars who’d recently moved to new clubs off his September roster. Pochettino said last week that the reason for omitting Johnny Cardoso, for example, was to allow Cardoso to settle at Atlético Madrid.Weah completed his transfer more recently and has played fewer games for Marseille than Cardoso has for Atleti. But when asked if missing this U.S. camp was ever a consideration, Weah said, “No, I never thought about not coming into camp.”“As Marseille’s a priority, the national team is also a priority to me as well,” he continued. “Coming here, and being with the group, and building on what we already have, and fine-tuning a lot of things, for me, is important. Because at the end of the day, the goal is nine months away. We have to perform and be on top of our game. So, any chance I get to come in and kinda build with these guys, I’m 100 percent for it. I’m always here.”He also spoke about Marseille — the city and club — as the ideal place for him as he and the USMNT build toward next summer.

“The club is everything to the city, everything to the fans. I mean, they eat, sleep, breathe football; eat, sleep, breathe Marseille,” Weah said. “You know what it means to them, it’s their heart and soul, so you have to give 100%. If we lose a game, they’re on us. It’s super intense. Just the group alone, we get into so [many] fights together, in trainings, in the locker rooms, that people think we’re crazy at times. But it’s just because everyone is so passionate, everyone has the same goal, everyone wants to win. “And I think being at a club like that before the World Cup, and before going into something so big, I think it’s super important for me. Because I get to build that mindset of being a warrior, I get to build on that. I think that’ll be super positive for me going into the World Cup — and also for the [national] team, because I get to bring that kind of vibe into camps when I come back.”(Top photo: Jeff Roberson / Associated Press)

8/29/25 USMNT Roster Drop, Leagues Cup Final Miami vs Seattle Sun 5 pm, Indy 11 home Sat,

August 29, 2025August 29, 2025 gatorbest epl, football, la-liga, pulisic, soccer, us-mens-national-team, us-soccer, usmnt

US Men Roster Drop for Sept 6 & 9 Games – No McKennie, Musah, Wright, Turner, Scally

There are 12 players on the roster who competed in the Gold Cup this summer. However, there are some notable absences from players who were excluded due to recovering from injury, as Pochettino opted to have them remain with their teams to continue building up full fitness, even as some recently returned to the field. Those players include Antonee Robinson, Ricardo Pepi, Malik Tillman, and Patrick Agyemang.

Several regulars were not selected for the September roster, including Weston McKennie, Matt Turner, Yunus Musah, Haji Wright, Brenden Aaronson, Gio Reyna, Joe Scally, and Johnny Cardoso. Meanwhile, Alex Zendejas gets his first USMNT camp of 2025 after playing well for Club América. Making the roster is dual national Tristan Blackmon, whose call-up was accidentally leaked by new Vancouver Whitecaps teammate Thomas Müller during a press conference over the weekend. Blackmon was reportedly contacted by Canada head coach Jesse Marsch in the spring to gauge his interest in playing for Canada at the international level. He instead accepts the call-up to join the USMNT for this camp. Four other players are looking to earn their first cap for the USMNT. Dual national Noahkai Banks makes his USMNT camp debut, while Blackmon, Roman Celenatano, and Jonathan Klinsmann are in search of their first cap after returning to the national team. The USMNT take on South Korea on September 6th at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey. They then complete the international window with a friendly against Japan on September 9th at Lower.com Field in Columbus.
USMNT ROSTER
GOALKEEPERS (3): Roman Celentano (FC Cincinnati), Matt Freese (New York City FC), Jonathan Klinsmann (Cesena) DEFENDERS (8): Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew), Noahkai Banks (FC Augsburg), Tristan Blackmon (Vancouver Whitecaps), Sergiño Dest (PSV Eindhoven), Alex Freeman (Orlando City), Nathan Harriel (Philadelphia Union), Tim Ream (Charlotte FC), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace)
MIDFIELDERS (6): Tyler Adams (Bournemouth/ENG; 50/2), Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps), Luca de la Torre (San Diego FC), Diego Luna (Real Salt Lake), Jack McGlynn (Houston Dynamo), Sean Zawadzki (Columbus Crew)
FORWARDS (5): Damion Downs (Southampton), Christian Pulisic (AC Milan) Josh Sargent (Norwich City), Tim Weah (Marseille), Alex Zendejas (Club América), Folarin Balogun

So I have NO IDEA what Bochitino is Doing here? Now is not the time to be testing new Goalkeepers – these are real teams we are playing! And why so many MLS players? Are you kidding me Boch! HE HAS NO IDEA WHAT HE IS DOING. At this rate we may not make it out of the Group stage. How the heck are McKennie, Haji Wright and Joe Scally not here at least. Aaronson is also a bit of a headscratcher. I am ok with Berhalter he showed well last time – lets see if he can play now that we have REAL competition. I am hope so because I do like his grit. We’ll see on all these others.

Leagues Cup Final Dream Match-Up Messi’s Miami vs Seattle Sounders this Sun 8 pm on Apple, Univision

Miami came from behind in dramatic fashion to beat Orlando in Miami as Messi and the Suarez spurred Miami on to victory. In the late game Seattle Dominated the first half then held on for the 2-0 win over the LA Galaxy setting up the Wednesday night Leagues Cup Final on their home field Sunday at 8 pm on TUDN, Univision & Apple TV free.

Indy 11 Host Louisville City Sat 7 pm @ The Mike

Indy Eleven midfielder Jack Blake recorded his sixth career brace to lead the Boys in Blue to a 3-2 victory over Miami FC at Carroll Stadium.The victory moved the Boys in Blue into a playoff position at the 2/3 point of the 30-game regular season schedule. The Boys in Blue host Eastern Conference leader Louisville City FC next Saturday at 7 pm at Carroll Stadium for “Mystery at the Mike”. Single-game tickets for all matches are available via Ticketmaster. Flex Plan, Group, and Hospitality tickets are available here. For questions, call (317) 685-1100 during business hours or email tickets@indyeleven.com.

Carmel FC Goalkeeper Coach Erin Baker

So excited to welcome former Carmel FC & All State Carmel High School Goalkeeper Erin Baker as Carmel FC Goalkeeper Coach this fall. The former Wright State College Goalkeeper, daughter of Carmel FC Coach Tom Baker and former CFC Coach and legendary Canadian Team Goalkeeper Carla Baker (now Carmel High Asst Coach). Erin will handle coaching duties on Mon nights at Shelbourne Fields and Wednesdays at Badger Fields. Your’s truly will be on hand when I can to help (around high school reffing duties).

Carmel FC GK Coach Erin Baker was a 2 time All-State Selection at Carmel High School and State Champion before playing college ball at Wright State in Ohio. Coaching now on Mon & Wed nights.

Congrats to our Carmel FC squads on a jam-packed weekend across the Midwest and a special mention to our 3 teams that picked up silverware in their respective events. Huge thanks to our players, coaches, and the parents who make the miles and memories possible.
• 2012 Girls Gold — Premier Cup (Bronze) Champions
• 2013 Boys Blue — Puma Cup Finalists
• 2014 Girls Gold — Chicago Development Showcase

T Ray, Mike A and Shane reffing tourney at Grand Park Sunday with Coms — aren’t we cool looking!

GAMES ON TV

Fri, Aug 29
2:45 pm Para+ Lecce vs AC Milan (Pulisic)
3 pm CBSSN Leicester City vs Birmingham City Championship
8 pm Prime Orlando Pride (Marta) vs NY/NJ Gothem NWSL
10:30 pm Para+, Prime Seattle Reign vs San Diego Wave NWSL
10:30 pm Para+, Prime, Golazo Portland Thorns vs Utah
Sat, Aug 30
7:30 am USA Chelsea vs Fulham (Jedi)
9:30 am ESPN+ Werder Bremen vs Leverkusen (Tillman)
9:30 am ESPN+ Stuttgart vs B M’Gladbach (Scally, Reyna)
10 am USA Sunderland vs Brentford
10 am Peacock Tottenham vs Bournemouth (Adams)
12:30 pm NBC Leeds United (Aaronson) vs Newcastle United
12:30 pm ESPN+ Ausberg vs Bayern Munich
7 pm TV 6, ESPN+ Indy 11 vs Louisville
7:30 pm Tubi KC Current vs NC Courage NWSL
Sun Aug 31
7:30 am USA Nottingham Forest vs West Ham
11:30 am USA Liverpool vs Arsenal
12:30 pm CBSSN Genoa vs Juventus (McKennie)
2 pm USA Aston Villa vs Crystal Palace (Richards)
3:30 pm ESPNd+, Rayo Vallencano vs Barcelona
4 pm CBS NWSL Washington Spirit vs Chicago Red Stars
8 pm Apple, Univision Seattle Sounders vs Inter Miami Leagues Cup Final
10:30 pm FS1?, Apple Free – LAFC vs San Diego
Mon, Sept 1
9 pm CBSSN Angel City (Thompson) vs Bay FC NWSL
Wed, Sept 3
7 pm CBSSN Washington Spirit vs Vancouver Rise W Concacaf Cup
7:30 pm ESPN+ Hartford vs Indy 11
Thurs, Aug 4 WCQ
2:45 pm Fox Sport 2 Bulgaria vs Spain
7:30 pm Peacock Argentina vs Venezuela
8:30 pm Peacock Brazil vs Chile
Fri, Aug 5 WCQ
2:45 pm FS2 Ukraine vs France
8 pm Amazon Prime Racing Louisville vs Portland NWSL

Sat, Sept 6
5 pm TNT, Tele, Max USA Men vs Korea
Tues, Sept 9
7:30 pm TNT, Tele, Max USA Men vs Japan in Columbus, Ohio
Fri, Oct 10
8:30 pm TNT, Max USA Men vs Ecuador
Tues, Oct 14
9 pm TNT, Max USA Men vs Australia

USMNT weekend viewing guide: Summer Olympiques

Some of our most watched leagues embark on a new season.
The Transfer window is nearly closed as teams and players settle in to what their club’s will look like for at least the next several months. A US player or two could still be on the move this Fall (we’re keeping our eye on you Yunus Musah) but we’re pretty close to locked in. We’re also locked in on some great matches this weekend that could see more debut’s as well as some head to head action in France. It start’s on Friday with a couple of matches:

Friday

Lecce v Milan – 2:45p on Paramount+: AC Milan opened their season with a home loss to newly promoted Cremonese with Christian Pulisic starting the match and playing the full 90’ but Yunus Musah not making it off the bench amid ongoing rumors that he is being pursued by Napoli and Atalanta. Milan dominated possession and allowed just four shot attempts by Cremonese but were unable to convert more than one of their own twenty-four shot attempts. Milan will look to bounce back against Lecce who settled for a scoreless draw with Genoa last weekend.

Saturday

Chelsea v Fulham – 7:30a on USA Network: Antonne Robinson returned from injury and played 28’ minutes off the bench last weekend as Fulham drew with Manchester United 1-1. That makes a pair of 1-1 draws to open the season for Fulham who will now face a Chelsea side who are coming off a 5-1 thumping of West Ham last weekend after opening their season with a scoreless draw against Crystal Palace.

Werder Bremen v Bayer Leverkusen – 9:30a on ESPN+: Malik Tillman missed Bayer Leverkusen’s season opening loss to Hoffenheim last weekend but is reportedly available this weekend heading into their match with Werder Bremen who fell 4-1 to Eintracht Frankfurt. Tillman will be making his debut for his new club as they look to bounce back and get on track to challenge Bayern Munich for the league title.

Stuttgart v Borussia Monchengladbach – 9:30a on ESPN+: Gio Reyna has joined good friend Joe Scally at Borussia Monchengladbach and will look to get his career back on track. Reyna, Scally and Gladbach will face Stuttgart this weekend looking for Gladbach’s first win of the season, following a 0-0 draw last weekend with Hamburg.

Tottenham v AFC Bournemouth – 10a on Peacock: Tyler Adams and Bournemouth defeated Wolverhampton last weekend, bouncing back from a season opening loss to Liverpool, but then fell to Brentford 2-0 in Carabao Cup second round action midweek with Tyler getting the match off. This weekend Bournemouth will take on a Tottenham side that have won their first two matches to start the season, including a 2-0 win over Manchester City last weekend.

Blackburn Rovers v Norwich City – 10a on Paramount+: Josh Sargent has opened the season by scoring a goal in each of Norwich’s four matches that he has appeared in (he missed Norwich’s EFL Cup match against Southampton midweek) but Norwich have won just one of their three league matches, with all ending with an identical 2-1 score line. This weekend Norwich will face a Blackburn Rovers side that just missed out on the promotion playoffs last season but have also won just one of their opening three matches this year as well.

Deportivo Alaves v Atletico Madrid – 11a on ESPN Deportes and ESPN+: Johnny Cardoso might not be in the US squad but he’s made the starting 11 for Atletico Madrid the first two matches of their season. Atletico will be looking for their first win of the season this weekend as they take on Deportivo Alaves, who fell to Real Betis 1-0 last weekend.

Leeds United v Newcastle United – 12:30p on NBC and Peacock: Brenden Aaronson has come off the bench to play roughly 25’ in each of Leeds United’s first two matches of the season. Leeds won their opener but were thumped by Arsenal last weekend 5-0 with the team already down 4-0 when Aaronson came into the match.

Augsburg v Bayern Munich – 12:30p on ESPN+: Noakhai Banks has pulled the reverse Johnny Cardoso, the 18-year-old center back has made Mauricio Pochettino’s September callup list though he has not made it off the bench for Augsburg yet this season. Unfortunately, that might say as much about the differences in depth at the midfield and center back positions for the USMNT as it does about Pochettino’s puzzling decisions. Augsburg defeated Freiburg 3-1 in their opener last weekend and will now face Bayern Munich who opened their Bundesliga campaign with 6-0 drubbing of RB Leipzig.

PSV v Telstar – 2p on ESPN+: Ricardo Pepi saw his first minutes of the Eredivisie season last Saturday, coming off the bench for the final minutes of PSV’s 4-2 win over Groningen. Sergino Dest started the match at left back, played the full 90’, and picked up his second assist of the season. Dest has had a goal contribution in each of PSV’s first three matches. PSV will face a Telstar side that are looking for their first win of the season, they snapped a two match losing streak last weekend in drawing 2-2 with FC Volendam.

Toulouse v PSG – 3:05p on beIN Sports: Mark McKenzie and Toulouse will take on perennial league favorites PSG on Sunday. Both teams have won their first two matches of the season and are tied, along with Lyon and Strasbourg, at the top of the table early in the season. McKenzie has started and gone the full 90’ in each of Toulouse’s two matches.

Sunday

Rangers v Celtic – 7a on CBSSN and Paramount+: Rangers and Celtic were both dumped from Champions League qualifying midweek in embarrassing fashion and will now look to bounce back in the latest edition of the Old Firm derby. Cameron Carter-Vickers started and played the full match plus extra time midweek as Celtic eventually fell to Kazakhstan’s Kairat Almaty in penalties after playing a home and away series, including a full 120’ in the second match, without either team scoring a goal. Celtic have won each of their first three matches though CCV was rested last weekend. Auston Trusty had come off the bench in Celtic’s first three matches of the season but was not included in the squad last weekend or midweek. Celtic’s opponent this weekend is their arch-rival Rangers who have drawn each of their first three league matches and also fell midweek in Champions League qualifying 6-0 (and 9-1 on aggregate) to Club Brugge.

Monaco v Strasbourg – 11:15a on beIN Sports: Folarin Balogun returned from injury last weekend to get the start and go the full 90’ in Monaco’s 1-0 loss to Lille. Balogun and Monaco will now face Strasbourg who have won their first to Ligue 1 matches of the season.

Genoa v Juventus – 12:30p on CBSSN and Paramount+: Weston McKennie was used as a time wasting substitute last weekend as Juventus saw out a 2-0 win over Parma to open their Serie A season. McKennie appears to once again be at an interesting point in his career as the midfielder was left out of the September window and is looking to work his way back into the squad with his club as well. It’s a bit startling but it is not the first, or second, time that McKennie has found himself in a similar position and he has bounced back well each time prior.

Aston Villa v Crystal Palace – 2p on USA Network: Chris Richards and Crystal Palace have opened their Premier League season with a pair of draws against Chelsea and Nottingham Forest with Richards playing the full 90’ in both matches. Richards also went 90 on Thursday as Palace played Norwegian side Fredrikstad FK to a scoreless draw in see out their 1-0 aggregate win in UEFA Conference League qualifiers. Palace have allowed just four goals across five matches in all competitions to start the season, including two in their win over Liverpool in the Community Shield match, and Richards is a key figure in what appears to be a solid defense. Palace will face an Aston Villa side this weekend that are looking for their first win, and first goal of the season.

Olympique Lyon v Olympique Marseille – 2:45p on beIN Sports: Tanner Tessmann and Tim Weah will face off in Ligue 1 action on Sunday afternoon before Weah heads to the States for the September window while Tessmann remains in France as he missed out on a callup. Tessmann has started and gone the full 90’ in Lyon’s first two matches while Weah came off the bench in Marseille’s first match, a 1-0 loss to Stade Rennais, but started on the left-wing in the teams 5-2 drubbing of Paris FC last weekend.

US Men’s National Team

Christian Pulisic back as USMNT September roster released with several changes
Pochettino names September USMNT roster, as Pulisic & Dest return
USMNT midweek roundup: Horvath’s penalty heroics
Tessmann, Adams, Tolkin, & Morris among weekend’s top performers, while others struggle

Analysis: Mitrovic names strong U-20 roster for final pre-World Cup camp
Thursday night update: Seattle and Miami reach final; EPB, Flach, & Richards advance in Europe

MLS

Seattle Sounders vs. Inter Miami: Who has the edge in Leagues Cup final?
Seattle Sounders vs. Inter Miami: Leagues Cup 2025 final is set
Seattle Sounders: How they reached the Leagues Cup 2025 final
Inter Miami: How they reached the Leagues Cup 2025 final
Power Rankings: Philadelphia Union regain Supporters’ Shield lead
Matchday 31: What to know for this weekend’s must-watch matches
USA roster: 12 MLS players called for Japan, South Korea friendlies

Europe

Messi’s farewell: Argentina star to play last home World Cup qualifier
Trent Alexander-Arnold left out of Thomas Tuchel’s England squad

Fenerbahçe sack José Mourinho after Champions League exit
UEFA announces major change to Champions League final

5 spicy fixtures you must watch this weekend
Amorim living ‘day by day’ at Man United as pressure grows after embarrassing cup loss
Premier League weekend preview: Are we seeing the end of Ruben Amorim
Manchester United’s Ruben Amorim: ‘Sometimes I want to quit, sometimes I want to be here for 20 years’

Goalkeeping

What A Save! MLS Who had the best stop in Matchday 30?
What A Save! MLS Who had the best stop in Matchday 29?
USL Championship Save of the Week – Week 25
USL Championship Save of the Week – Week 24
Top 10 Premier League Goalkeepers 2025! 🏆

Reffing

8 Second GK Rule

Always fun to ref games @ Carmel High – Carmel Freshman boys then girls with Omar Mon night.

=====RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ===

Got some Good BarBQ for your Summer Plans ? Try out the Best BarBQ in Town right across the street (131st) from Northview Church on the corner of Hazelldell & 131st. RackZ BBQ

Save 20% on your order

(mention the ole ballcoach)

======================RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ======================

It’s time for Mauricio Pochettino to stop tinkering and build a World Cup team

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JULY 6: Mauricio Pochettino manager / head coach of USA during the Gold Cup 2025 Final match between United States and Mexico at NRG Stadium on July 6, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)

By Charlie Davies

Aug. 28, 2025 3:04 pm EDT

124

I spent the earlier part of this week living under the stars, in a tent deep inside Yellowstone National Park, with only a patchy cellphone signal, no internet or television. It wasn’t quite an Aaron Rodgers retreat but it was an amazing experience.

Anyone who has ever ‘disconnected’ in that manner, understands the value that it brings. You have time to break free from the constant demands of everyday life, to refocus and renew before re-emerging with fresh energy.

But when I came out of the retreat and saw Mauricio Pochettino’s roster for the upcoming games against South Korea and Japan, I wondered for half a second if I wasn’t now living in an alternative reality.

Almost half of Pochettino’s 23-man squad is made up of players from Major League Soccer ,as he continues to experiment with new players while the likes of Weston McKennie at Juventus, Johnny Cardoso of Atlético Madrid, Yunus Musah at AC Milan and Tanner Tessmann at Lyon have been left out.

Weston McKennie was among those left out of Mauricio Pochettino’s latest USMNT squad. (Marco Canoniero / LightRocket via Getty Images)

We are nine months away from the start of the World Cup on home soil and the coach is still experimenting, still familiarizing himself with the player pool and still ‘sending messages’ to players? Really?

At this stage, I would expect the national team coach to be focused on his core starting team and supporting cast, getting players familiar with their roles, the partnerships that are so vital across the field and the group dynamics that need to be fine tuned before competing with the world’s elite.

Of course, there is always room for bringing in a form player or two or trying out alternative options and testing the depth of his roster. And there is some validity in Pochettino’s likely goals here – broadening the pool, lighting a fire under those excluded and perhaps giving European-based players the chance to focus on their club situations for now.

But the benefits of a player being allowed to stay with a European club are limited when you remember that during the international break, large numbers of the first-team squad at clubs like Milan, Juve and Atlético, are away with their national teams anyway, weakening the significance of those training sessions, which are mainly for reserves and other non-internationals. Two things really concern me about this roster. Firstly, the U.S. is playing against Japan and South Korea, two teams with quality players and top-tier experience, who are exactly the kind of opponents that might be waiting in the World Cup itself, especially in the knockout phase.With no qualifying games, these friendlies should be treated as seriously as possible, to get the squad truly competitive encounters – to test them and help them grow. As we saw with the debacle of June’s 4-0 crushing by Switzerland in Nashville, if the opposition is high-level and comes in motivated, the outcome for an experimental team can be ugly.

There is already a worrying lack of enthusiasm bordering on apathy in the USMNT’s fan base at a time when positivity and optimism should be growing in anticipation of this huge moment in American soccer. I don’t even want to think about what the impact would be of another heavy loss at home.

Secondly, while the time for ‘sending messages’ should be over by now, I also worry about exactly what kind of message Pochettino is sending by his selection of MLS players who few people, if any, were clamoring for.

Under former USMNT coach Bob Bradley, players like Charlie Davies were incentivized to prove themselves overseas. (Chris Williams /Icon SMI / Corbis / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

When I played for the national team under Bob Bradley, there was an unwritten rule for emerging American MLS talent. If you want to be a national team player, you earn yourself a move abroad, you fight for your place at your club, you perform week-in, week-out and then you get your chance.

It was highly motivating. It led people like me to turn down, after college, a Generation Adidas contract with MLS and head to Europe. It was why I battled for a starting place at Hammarby in Sweden, moved to Sochaux in France and played for Randers in Denmark.Jurgen Klinsmann was another national team coach who was keen to see Americans move to Europe, pushing players to get as close to the highest level as possible. It’s why so many of our players over the last 25 years improved, became more professional and more steeled. It’s not easy as an American walking into a European locker-room, proving yourself, earning a starting place and keeping it. It’s a grind every single day. It meant the national team coach got players who had been forged by that experience, hardened and sharpened.

It also gave players in MLS something to aim for. You might be performing well enough for your club, but were you playing well enough to attract the attention of European scouts?

So what is the message the players receive when they see Pochettino’s roster?

With all due respect, have the likes of Roman Celentano, Tristan Blackmon, Nathan Harriel and Sean Zawadzki really been performing at such a consistently high-level in MLS that they simply could not be ignored? Have they really thrust themselves into contention for World Cup places?Even if you were looking to MLS-based players, it is surprising that some of these new faces are being picked ahead of the likes of Djordje Mihailovic (11 caps), DeJuan Jones (10 caps) and Chicago’s exciting talent Brian Gutierrez (two caps).But the message sent is even worse. When I see a player like Paxton Aaronson, who after trying to make it at Eintracht Frankfurt took on the challenge of a loan spell at Utrecht and earned a starting place at a top-four club in the Dutch league, take a move back to MLS, it leaves me thinking the players have understood that under Pochettino you’d actually be better off in MLS.

Paxten Aaronson made a recent return to Major League Soccer from Europe. (Seth Herald / AFP via Getty Images)That is a crazy situation. But what other conclusion could we draw from the fact that a promising player like Aidan Morris, who was rightly called up due to his excellent form with the Columbus Crew, is now ignored despite being a regular in the highly competitive Championship with Middlesbrough?

Morris won two MLS Cups with the Crew before, at the age of 22, going to play for then-Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick, a great coach to learn from, given he played in Morris’s midfield role. That’s the kind of initiative that I would lean towards rewarding.Morris could now be forgiven for thinking that he would have been better off, from a national team perspective, staying with the Crew, never having to worry about losing his place, never having to push himself, under pressure, every week in the grind of that league. He’d probably be in this roster if he was playing in MLS – which is absurd.

There are contradictions in Pochettino’s approach, too. If the aim is to give players in new club environments space to settle, then why call up Tim Weah? He is in his first season with Marseille, adapting to a new system under Roberto De Zerbi and new teammates, and yet he is (deservedly) included in the roster.And he should be, because Weah is a vital piece of the U.S. puzzle. His speed, quickness, timing, 1-v-1 ability, two-way commitment and World Cup experience (including scoring against Wales in Qatar) make him unique in this group.The reality is that outside of him, the USMNT simply doesn’t have another wide player with that blend of qualities. His inclusion underscores just how inconsistent the logic is when other Europe-based players in similar or even stronger club situations are left behind.

At least Pochettino says this is the last window before the experimenting stops in October. That is a relief, but I think not going with a full-strength squad for these games is another missed opportunity for the coach and the team.

Hopefully the approach to the games will be less experimental than the roster call-ups suggests. If the U.S. wants to inspire belief heading into the home World Cup, now is the time to sharpen, not experiment.

The September friendlies will mark Christian Pulisic’s return to the squad. (Logan Riely / USSF / Getty Images for USSF)

Thankfully, Christian Pulisic is on the roster, and I really hope that he and everyone else can now put this summer’s unpleasant conflict behind them. The whole saga was the result of poor communication. No one blinked an eye when it was announced that Musah was missing the Gold Cup for ‘personal reasons,’ and few would have objected if Christian’s absence was put down to muscle fatigue or a minor injury.

I’ll never understand why it was instead described by U.S. Soccer sporting director Matt Crocker as the player asking to “step back” this summer due to the volume of games. The whole thing could have been avoided with different language.Christian had a new coach coming in at AC Milan and it was important for him to be at the Milanello training ground fresh and ready to go on day one of preseason and not coming in late or tired from the Gold Cup and playing catch-up ahead of the new season.The U.S. needs Pulisic to have a great season with Milan and to return in style to the national team. He’s central to World Cup hopes, and whatever people think of his decision this summer, it is time to put it behind us and get behind our best player. Just as it’s time for Pochettino to get behind his best players, period.(Top photo: Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)

https://edge.aditude.io/safeframe/1-1-1/html/container.html

Proud Member of American Outlaws http://www.facebook.com/IndyAOUnite

Looking to Get a Professional Company Headshot? Check out https://capturely.com/ Tell Rob The Ole Ballcoach sent you and he’ll give you a deal.

DISCOUNT SMALL ENGINE & BIG ENGINE REPAIRS IN CARMEL

Mauricio Pochettino wants trust in his process but his USMNT is short on time

By Paul Tenorio

Aug. 26, 2025

The U.S. men’s national team has 10 games until the World Cup.

The journey to that point is going to be one hell of a ride. The question for U.S. fans is whether they believe in the process.

Mauricio Pochettino’s 22-man squad for the September window included Christian Pulisic — another player will be added at a later date — but was most certainly impacted by the start of the European season. The roster is missing players still working back from injury and others who aren’t in form at their clubs or were given time to integrate into new teams or fight for a place. Based on Pochettino’s answers at his press conference on Tuesday, we will likely see names like Ricardo Pepi, Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, Antonee Robinson and Malik Tillman, if healthy, in October and November.

https://721c16a45fd1ea9ac17b3050264b289e.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-45/html/container.html

Even then, Pochettino’s search for his best U.S. team still feels very much like a work in progress.

Pochettino said he is using this September window as a judging ground for players he hasn’t seen, like Sean Zawadzki, Noahkai Banks, Jonathan Klinsmann and Tristan Blackmon.

“For us, this is the last camp that we are going to add some new faces,” he said.

Fulham’s Antonee Robinson was among the high-profile absentees from the USMNT squad. (Tim Nwachukwu / Getty Images)

It’s also one more chance for players he saw at the Gold Cup, but would like to test in a more competitive setting, like Sebastian Berhalter, Jack McGlynn, Nathan Harriel, Damion Downs and Max Arfsten.

“We really believe that is the right decision,” he said. “To bring the right balance to the squad.”

Whether those auditions should still be happening at this point is a fair question.

The former Tottenham, PSG and Chelsea manager was only hired last September. The last year was spent familiarizing himself with the entirety of the pool. That evaluation process has now run right up against the final months of World Cup prep. There isn’t much time to start to put a group together that can compete next summer on the sport’s biggest stage.

Pochettino clearly still wants to see a few more options before he moves into the next phase. I don’t agree with a good chunk of the decisions on this roster. Quality-wise, there are players left out of this squad that shouldn’t have been.

But it’s clear that Pochettino is doing so with intent.

He wants to send a message — for longtime starters like McKennie, Musah and Matt Turner, but also those who are trying to fight into the picture in Europe, like Aidan Morris and Tanner Tessmann. No one’s job is guaranteed.

“I think all (players) need to feel the possibility of fighting for a place,” Pochettino said. “If we want to be a really competitive team, we cannot nominate 13, 14, 15 players (and say): ‘These guys for sure are going to arrive to the World Cup. And the rest, they need a few places to fight.’ Come on, that is not the real sport…

“When you see different national teams, national teams that won World Cups, I think you really understand what (real competition) means. Players need to feel that threat from (their) teammate, and they need to defend the place in every single (camp) that you join the national team, but also when you perform in your (club) team.”

USMNT falls to Mexico in the Gold Cup final Pochettino (left) and captain Tim Ream (center) suffered summer disappointment with a Concacaf Gold Cup final defeat. (Chandan Khanna / AFP via Getty Images)

It’s a valid message from Pochettino. There was too much of a sense of comfort in this U.S. group when he took over after the 2024 Copa América failure. There was a subset of players who believed they were, essentially, untouchable. There was a need to fight back against that mentality within the group, not just to motivate those players to work harder, but to build belief throughout the pool that every player had a chance to make the team and to compete.

But that task — building that competitiveness within the group, creating more of an edge — also has to be balanced against quality.

Building a team is not always about picking the best 23 or 26 players for a roster. It’s important to have the right chemistry and the right mentality top to bottom. You need glue guys. But you also need to remember that, at some point in the tournament, you might have to turn down the bench and summon the 21st or 23rd or 25th guy and put them in the game. And you better be sure that they can deliver better than the player you left at home.

Past U.S. coaches have learned that lesson the hard way before. (See: Landon Donovan in Brazil.)

It’s fine to disagree completely with the call-ups in this roster and also to give Pochettino some grace in this window. To let him try to foster a more competitive spirit within the team now in the name of a better team next summer. And to believe that the team that is summoned next June will have more than enough time to bond and build the right spirit ahead of the home tournament.

It’s fine as long as you trust that the process will land you with the best possible team in 10 months — and that Pochettino and his staff won’t get the mix of motivation, mentality and quality wrong. There has to be belief that, as Pochettino said, he’ll find the players that give the U.S. the best chance to win when the first game kicks off at SoFi Stadium.“It’s up to us to select the best players to play in the World Cup,” he said. “We have experience. We have the quality and the capacity to see and to detect and to analyze … and to create the best plan to arrive in the best condition. Now it’s up to the players. We want to have the best players to compete in the best way in the World Cup. And for sure we are going to arrive with the best roster to compete.” (Top photo: Robbie Jay Barratt / AMA / Getty Images)

Pochettino confirms no contact with Pulisic, addresses McKennie’s omission

AUSTIN, TEXAS - OCTOBER 12: United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino talks with Christian Pulisic #10 during the first half against Panama at Q2 Stadium on October 12, 2024 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by John Dorton/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images)

By Henry Bushnell Aug. 26, 2025 81

Mauricio Pochettino said Tuesday that he “didn’t talk with” Christian Pulisic this summer, but said that the public back-and-forth between the two in June is “behind us.”Pochettino, speaking to reporters via Zoom after naming Pulisic to the U.S. men’s national team roster for September friendlies against South Korea and Japan, added: “We need to look forward. We have a plan for every single player, and the plan for Christian now is to call and to see him in this camp.”Pochettino said he hoped that Pulisic would “arrive in a good condition, fresh, [coming off a] good preseason with Milan, with his team, and ready to compete — that is the most important thing.”Pulisic will rejoin the team for the first time since March, when the U.S. lost to Panama and Canada. In that Concacaf Nations League third-place match against Canada, Pulisic appeared to wave away a substitution, delaying Pochettino’s attempt to replace him midway through the second half.Then, in May, Pulisic chose to skip the summer’s Concacaf Gold Cup. When U.S. Soccer announced the roster, it released a statement from sporting director Matt Crocker making clear that Pulisic had initiated what was ultimately a “collective decision” after “thoughtful discussions and careful consideration.”

Pochettino, speaking to reporters that same day, called it “the best decision” for Pulisic and for the USMNT. But, in subsequent media appearances, he didn’t sound thrilled about it. Pulisic, meanwhile, drew fierce criticism from some fans and pundits, including former players. Landon Donovan said on a Fox Sports broadcast that USMNT players being “on vacation, not wanting to play in the Gold Cup,” was “pissing me off.”

That drew a response from Pulisic’s father, Mark, who implicitly told Donovan in an Instagram post to “look in the mirror + grow a pair.” A week later, Christian Pulisic went on a CBS Sports podcast to defend himself, and argued that questions about “my commitment, especially towards the national team,” were “way out of line.”

Pulisic also made the point that he “did want to be a part of at least the two friendlies” prior to the Gold Cup, against Turkey and Switzerland. “I did speak with the coaches, and I asked, and I wanted to be a part of the team in whatever capacity I could,” Pulisic said. “And they said no, they only wanted one roster [for the friendlies and the Gold Cup]. And that’s coach’s decision, I fully respect that. I didn’t understand it, but it is what it is.”

Pochettino, speaking two days later at a press conference on the eve of the Gold Cup, responded. Players could not pick and choose when they play for the national team, he said. “I think when I signed my contract [with] the federation,” he added, “[it said] I am the head coach. I am not a mannequin.”Pulisic also revealed that he’d only had one conversation with Pochettino about the decision. On Tuesday, Pochettino seemed to confirm, as Fox Sports reported, that the two haven’t spoken since May. There was “nothing to talk [about],” Pochettino said.Later, when asked whether he considered not calling Pulisic into the September camp, Pochettino said: “Christian had the possibility to have a good rest in the summer, and then start the season. … He’s in a condition to come. … He can add his freshness, and, of course, his quality.”

USMNT midfielder Weston McKennie won’t take part in friendlies vs. South Korea and Japan (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)

Where’s Weston?

The rest of Pochettino’s September roster, though, was headlined by omissions. When asked why he left off midfielder Weston McKennie, Pochettino indicated that McKennie’s delayed offseason, and his precarious place in Juventus’ squad, were two factors.“We already know Weston,” Pochettino said. “It’s not necessary to call him to know.”McKennie’s involvement in the Club World Cup left him with a truncated preseason at the Italian club. And as the Serie A season started last weekend, he found himself on the outside looking in at the Juve starting lineup. He entered the team’s opener, a 2-0 win over Parma, in the 89th minute.“We wanted to give him the possibility to be more settled in his club,” Pochettino said of McKennie, “and the possibility to be in his best form.”Pochettino indicated that the reasoning for Johnny Cardoso’s omission was similar. Cardoso moved to Atlético Madrid last month from Real Betis. The thinking, Pochettino said, was to “give time to them to adapt in the new environment.”Pochettino also said, though, that “no one has their place sure.” That, he said, was his broader message: “everyone needs to fight.”But when asked if already had in mind the players who would return in October, he nodded his head and said, “Yes.” Later, when asked specifically about McKennie, he said that September will be “the last camp that we are going to bring some new faces.” And he hinted that McKennie will be back in October.“Weston [needs] time to prepare himself with [Juventus], and it’s important to be with his team fighting for a place,” Pochettino said. He added that he wants to give McKennie “all the tools to fight for a place to be every week, on the pitch, competing. Because that is going to put him in his best form. … We know his talent.” (Top photo: John Dorton/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images)

The Champions League draw’s impact on USMNT stars’ all-important season

USMNT and PSV's Ricardo Pepi and Sergino Dest

By Jeff Rueter

Aug. 28, 2025 3:22 pm EDT

With the domestic leagues underway, the main event of Europe’s footballing calendar has finally been scheduled. On Thursday, all 36 participants in the UEFA Champions League learned who their eight opponents will be in the opening phase of the 2025-26 installment.

Over the past decade, U.S. players have become increasingly relevant to the competition. Last year featured a new record for involvement, with USMNT-eligible players eclipsing 5,000 combined minutes in the 2024-25 Champions League. What looked to be a promising business end for a few of the teams with Americans involved quickly went south in the playoff round, though, with little presence in the final three rounds of the competition.

https://2e333d2f21a56e055ded7b5ffd435511.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-45/html/container.html

Will it be another year with many missing out on the tournament’s biggest games? Or is anyone, during this all-important season leading into a home World Cup, poised to become the second U.S. player to take the field in a Champions League final?

Let’s make sense of the draw, through an American lens:

Who are the headliners involved?

While the transfer window remains open in most of Europe’s top leagues for a few more days, there are currently seven members of the USMNT who project to prominently feature in this year’s tournament. It’s a healthy portion, enough to comprise over half of a starting XI, but down from 13 players who saw the field last season.

Four are entering the Champions League as returning members of qualifying teams. Folarin Balogun will hope the third year’s the charm, having struggled in his first two seasons since AS Monaco signed him from Arsenal for a lavish $43.4 million fee. Balogun now finds himself battling for starts with a player whom he rose through the Arsenal youth ranks, Mika Biereth, with each ex-Gunner starting one of Monaco’s first two Ligue 1 fixtures. It’s a pivotal season for the 24-year-old, who has struggled for consistency but whose commitment with the USMNT was supposed to solve the program’s striker headaches.

Ricardo Pepi and Sergiño Dest should play major roles for PSV, who fell in last year’s round of 16 in a 9-3 aggregate smashing by Arsenal. Dest is now fully recovered from his 2024 knee injury, while Pepi is recovering from his own season-ending operation. PSV has put a lot of trust in the 22-year-old striker, signing him to a fresh pact last winter amid transfer interest and handing him the No. 9 shirt following Luuk de Jong’s departure.

For now, at least, Weston McKennie remains with Juventus despite yet another window of speculation that the Serie A side is ready to let him leave if there’s credible interest. The club lists the midfielder as its vice-captain, and he donned the armband on a few occasions in last year’s Champions League. He’s the sole American on the squad, as Tim Weah joined fellow qualifier Marseille on a year-long loan this summer. Weah’s first league start came as an inverting left winger, and he could pop up with far more goals than he did as a wingback with Juventus.

Two players who moved for some of the largest transfer fees spent on an American player will hope to back that investment with strong Champions League showings. Malik Tillman was vital as PSV shocked Holland by snatching the Eredivisie title on the final day, and he also putting in leading shifts for Mauricio Pochettino at this summer’s Gold Cup. He’s part of a radically transformed Bayer Leverkusen, helping make up for the recent exodus of talent from the since-dismantled 2023-24 Bundesliga champion.

Wait … where’s Christian Pulisic?

While several crucial options for Pochettino will play in the pinnacle of the club game, the program’s most important player is entirely absent.

Last season was difficult for AC Milan, which aspired to contend on all fronts despite Stefano Pioli’s departure in the summer. Poor form necessitated another midseason coaching change, and the team struggled for consistency as well as to reach its previous heights from recent memory. Milan slumped to an eighth-place finish in Serie A, below the positions necessary to reach any of the Champions League, Europa League or Conference League.

Their other campaigns suffered dramatic faceplants after Sérgio Conceição took the helm in midwinter. Milan entered the final day of the UCL league phase in prime position to avoid the knockout playoff round, but a defeat against Dinamo Zagreb forced them into the extra set of games, where they were binned by Feyenoord and failed to reach the round of 16. The Rossoneri’s final hope was to reach the Europa League by winning the Coppa Italia, and they did well to overcome rival Inter in a two-leg semifinal. However, Bologna pipped them in the final 1-0, slamming the door to Europe shut.

It’s the first time since 2016 where Milan has failed to qualify for European competition. Max Allegri will hope to get the club back in short order. Barring an unexpected departure in this or the winter window, Pulisic (and fellow U.S. international Yunus Musah) will play all of his club matches this season against Italian opposition.

UCL draws for teams with USMNT players

PSV	Ricardo Pepi, Sergiño Dest	FC Bayern	Liverpool	Atlético Madrid	Bayer Leverkusen	napoli	Olympiacos	Union Saint-Gilloise	Newcastle	78.3
Bayer Leverkusen	Malik Tillman	PSG	Man City	Villarreal	Benfica	PSV	Olympiacos	Newcastle	Copenhagen	77.5
Marseille	Tim Weah	Liverpool	Real Madrid	Atlalanta	Club Brugge	Ajax	Sporting CP	Newcastle	Union Saint-Gilloise	76
Atlético Madrid	Johnny Cardoso	Inter Milan	Liverpool	Eintracht Frankfurt	Arsenal	Bodø/Glimt	PSV	Union Saint-Gilloise	Galatasaray	75.8
AS Monaco	Folarin Balogun	Man City	Real Madrid	Juventus	Club Brugge	Tottenham	Bodø/Glimt	Galatasaray	Pafos	74.5
Juventus	Weston McKennie	Borussia Dortmund	Real Madrid	Benfica	Villarreal	Sporting CP	Bodø/Glimt	Pafos	AS Monaco	72.5

So what did the draw yield?

Of the headlining U.S. lot, it’s McKennie’s Juventus that may have received the most favorable draw. The Italians managed to avoid all of the record-setting six qualifiers from the Premier League, although away days against Villarreal and Monaco could prove tricky.

According to the UEFA coefficient, which awards points based on club performances in the last five years of continental play, Pepi, Dest and PSV received the most difficult draw of any qualifier. The two-time reigning Dutch champion will have to run a difficult gauntlet, facing Bayern Munich, Liverpool, Napoli, Atlético Madrid, Leverkusen and Newcastle. That will provide the striker and fullback with some considerable challenges.

Leverkusen finds itself with a tough octet of fixtures, including perennial European powers PSG, Manchester City and Benfica, while Atlético Madrid will take on Inter, Liverpool and Arsenal as part of its league phase. Balogun will hope to spark wins for Monaco against City, Real Madrid, Juventus and Tottenham among others. Marseille has the projected toughest draw of the Ligue 1 entrants, with its list of opponents topped by Liverpool, Real Madrid and Atalanta.

While dates and times for each match won’t be sorted until Saturday, Aug. 30, we’re guaranteed a few matchups pitting two of the more marquee Americans against one another. Those matchups are (with the drawn hosts listed first):

PSV (Pepi, Dest) vs. Atlético Madrid (Cardoso)
AS Monaco (Balogun) vs. Juventus (McKennie)
Bayer Leverkusen (Tillman) vs. PSV (Pepi, Dest)

(Top photo: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

Premier League Predictions: Liverpool vs Arsenal, Leeds vs Newcastle and the rest of Matchday 3

By Oliver Kay

Aug. 29, 2025 12:09 am EDT

Welcome to week three of The Athletic’s Premier League predictions challenge, where the subscribers are setting a rather troubling pace.

It wasn’t just Liverpool fans celebrating wildly when 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha scored that dramatic winner at St James’ Park on Monday night.

More than 3,000 miles away in the U.S. state of Rhode Island, Sunderland fan Derek was punching the air. As well as condemning Newcastle, Sunderland’s arch-rivals, to an agonising 3-2 home defeat, Ngumoha’s goal extended the subscribers’ lead at the top of our Premier League predictions table.

https://dace5a16a51caab0b6ede5b7fe774156.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-45/html/container.html

“When Liverpool were up 2-0 against 10 men, I thought it was a done deal,” Derek says. “How wrong I was — as was the case with my Sunderland pick.”

Wrong in the moment… and yet right when it mattered.

Each week, a different Athletic subscriber is chosen to join an algorithm, six-year-old Wilfred and me, Oli Kay, in predicting the Premier League results. We’re awarding three points for a correct scoreline and one point for getting the result right.

There’s also a bonus point for any correct “unique” prediction, so Derek got two points for being the only one to call Liverpool’s victory in Newcastle.

He got one scoreline right (Crystal Palace 1-1 Nottingham Forest) and called another five results correctly. That bonus point, thanks to Ngumoha’s stoppage-time winner, meant he equalled Vaageesh’s nine-point haul in week one, taking the subscribers three points clear at the top after two rounds.

https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/aodTz?dark=false

There were two other bonus points awarded last weekend: one for me for calling Burnley’s victory over Sunderland (sorry, Derek) and one for the algorithm for being spot-on with Fulham 1-1 Manchester United.

https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/b6nYM?dark=false

Spare a thought for Wilf, who was on course for a massive four-pointer after 99 minutes with Newcastle and Liverpool locked at 2-2 — only to be denied by Ngumoha’s goal. A bit mean to pick on the younger kids like that, Rio.

“So close to glory,” Wilf’s dad tells us. “Gutted.”

This week’s subscriber is Katherine, a 43-year-old Chelsea fan from London, who, after Vaageesh’s and Derek’s efforts, has a lot to live up to.

Our subscriber’s match of the week

Chelsea vs Fulham, Saturday, 12.30pm UK/7.30am ET

Katherine says: “The feeling of optimism going into this season has been through the roof and scoring five goals without Cole Palmer last weekend only adds fuel to that fire. Fulham are a solid team and are difficult to beat (which we found out last season), but I’m confident we’ll have too much for them.”

Chelsea 3-1 Fulham

Oli says: Remarkably, Chelsea are starting their season with four consecutive London derbies. In fact, only one of their first eight Premier League games is outside the capital’s M25 orbital motorway. It must all feel rather parochial for the new world champions, but they seemed to enjoy themselves out east at West Ham last weekend. This might be more of a battle — like their opening game, a goalless draw at home to Crystal Palace — but although I never feel totally confident in backing this Chelsea team, I fancy a home win, even if they are again without the injured Palmer.

Chelsea 2-1 Fulham

Chelsea beat West Ham 5-1 away last week (Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Oli’s other predictions

Manchester United vs Burnley

Oli says: For all the excitement surrounding their new additions, it’s only one point from two games for Manchester United this season, plus that shock Carabao Cup loss to fourth-tier Grimsby Town in midweek. More glaringly, it’s just 28 points from 29 games under Ruben Amorim since his appointment last November. That early-season optimism is going to give way to gloom if they can’t get some wins on the board very quickly. With Manchester City away and Chelsea at home straight after the international break that begins on Monday, victory in this game seems essential.

United 2-0 Burnley

https://dace5a16a51caab0b6ede5b7fe774156.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-45/html/container.html

Sunderland vs Brentford

Oli says: As nice as it is to see Sunderland enjoying their return to the top flight after eight years away, wouldn’t it have been nicer still if Jordan Henderson was back at his hometown club rather than potentially lining up against them this weekend? His best years are behind him, but he would have been ideal for the Granit Xhaka role — as indeed is Granit Xhaka. Henderson made a real difference to Brentford’s midfield last weekend on his first start for them, so Keith Andrews’ team shouldn’t be the soft touch they looked like in week one away to Nottingham Forest.

Sunderland 1-1 Brentford

Tottenham Hotspur vs Bournemouth

Oli says: This is all feeling quite August 2023 for Tottenham, isn’t it? New manager, new optimism, strong start and a sudden sense of: “Hey, these players are actually pretty good, you know?” Those feelings quickly faded under predecessor Ange Postecoglou — unbeaten in his first 10 Premier League games, then 34 defeats in the next 66 — but I do feel an upturn could prove more sustainable this time under Thomas Frank.

Tottenham 2-1 BournemouthWhat You Should Read NextThe Thomas Frank tactic that was crucial to Tottenham beating Manchester CityTottenham’s goals against Manchester City represented two key features of their new manager’s attacking principles

Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Everton

Oli says: I’m struggling to find cause for optimism for Wolves at the moment. Vitor Pereira did such a good job when he came in midway through last season, but a difficult summer has left the squad looking well short, whereas Everton will be energised by last week’s lift-off at their new home and by the additions of Jack Grealish and Tyler Dibling.

Wolves 0-1 Everton

Leeds United vs Newcastle United

Oli says: My historic references last week led subscriber Sam K to accuse me of living in the 1950s. Come on, Sam. Let’s get this right: 1980s, 1990s, even early 2000s, but not 1950s. Anyway, for me, this fixture evokes the turn-of-the-century feeling that anything was possible. (Spoiler: it wasn’t, particularly for these two clubs.) It’s Lee Bowyer, it’s Jonathan Woodgate, it’s Mark Viduka, it’s James Milner, it’s Alan Smith. It’s a Kevin Keegan meltdown in front of the TV cameras at Elland Road and it’s chairman Peter Ridsdale living the dream while feeding his tropical fish in the executive suite. It’s two clubs who, after a miserable period, are now in a happier place again. And it’s… very hard to call actually, but I’m going to go for a depleted Newcastle battling to their first win of the season.

Leeds 1-2 Newcastle

https://dace5a16a51caab0b6ede5b7fe774156.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-45/html/container.html

Brighton & Hove Albion vs Manchester City

Oli says: We all overestimated City last week. If this transition to a new-look team is going to work, it needs more of a balance between freshness and familiarity. I expect a more recognisable line-up from Pep Guardiola at Brighton — and possibly a more recognisable performance.

Brighton 1-2 City

Nottingham Forest vs West Ham United

Oli says: I really like this Forest team. I don’t like this West Ham team. I’m not talking about the club, the fans, the manager or individual players, some of whom I like; I mean the team. It lacks speed, it lacks heart and it lacks identity. I’m not sure what it’s meant to be. Their first two performances of the season have been really poor. It might get worse before it gets better.

Forest 3-0 West Ham

Liverpool vs Arsenal

Oli says: Isn’t it a bit early to have the two title favourites facing each other? I don’t like it. The transfer window is still open and teams are still finding their rhythm. Having this match now also means the return fixture is in the first week of January, right at the end of the hectic festive programme when players are running on fumes. I don’t like that either. Anyway, if I’m filibustering, it’s because I have no idea which way this is going to go — and I’m determined not to say a draw, even though I want to.

(Deep breath)… I’m going for an Arsenal win. I just don’t think Liverpool have settled yet — two wins, but two shaky performances. And if they prove me wrong, as they did by winning at Newcastle, I will absolutely reinstate them as my title favourites.

Liverpool 1-2 Arsenal

Aston Villa vs Crystal Palace

Oli says: Villa have been surprisingly slow out of the blocks — no goals scored yet, and just one point from their first two games. Palace haven’t exactly hit the ground running either, but their two draws seem more justifiable given their European commitments and an ongoing sense of disruption in the transfer market. This is a chance for Villa to kick-start their season. If they don’t, manager Unai Emery will be concerned, with PSR calculations still a concern as Monday’s transfer deadline looms.

Villa 2-1 Palace

(Top photo: Getty Images; design: Demetrius Robinson)

8/15/25 EPL, La Liga, Ligue 1 Return, US Open Cup Final 4 Set, Local High Schools Start, Americans Abroad, Pulisic row continues

August 15, 2025September 12, 2025 gatorbest carmel-fc, carmel-high-school, carmel-soccer, epl, football, goalkeeping, indy-11, liverpool, premier-league, pulisic, soccer, us-soccer

Three of Europe’s top five leagues return on Friday, with the Premier League, La Liga, and Ligue 1 kicking off for Matchday 1; the German Bundesliga and Italian Serie A will start a week later on Aug 22/23 they both have League cup games this weekend. See La Liga (Spain) games (More) and Ligue 1 (France) fixtures (More) – full season previews below for all 3 leagues. In the EPL my Final 4 are Arsenal, Liverpool, Man City, Chelsea – hoping Crystal Palace or Fulham can make a top 6 run.
Premier League Fri 3 pm USA Network Liverpool vs. Bournemouth, Liverpool haven’t lost their opening league game in any of the last 12 seasons, winning nine of them. Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah is the Premier League’s top goal scorer and leading player for goal contributions on Matchday 1. Adding to this, Bournemouth and American midfielder Tyler Adams have just one point from their eight Premier League visits to Anfield. See the full list of Premier League fixtures here.

Notes

Chelsea players will give an equal portion of their $15.5M Club World Cup bonus to the family of Diogo Jota and Andre Silva, equating to around $500,000 (More). Cute look at new Everton Stadium. Funny Wrexham Fans left too early – I have to admit I am watching these games on Para+ now that they are in the Championship – Ollie with the brace.

US Players Abroad Begins Seasons this Week – Richards Palace Wins Community Shield
What a thrill to see Chris Richards and Crystal Palace win the Community Shield 3-2 in PKs over Liverpool on Sunday (Palace Hi-lights), just months after winning the FA Cup at Wembley over Man City – Crystal Palace looked the better squad vs the defending EPL Champs. Palace plays at Chelsea at 9 am on Sunday on USA, while Fulham hosts – while Complete rundown on American’s Abroad below.
Man I am not sure who is advising Christian Pulisic but I wish he would just leave well enough alone on the criticism from Landon Donovan & Tim Howard here’s what was said. Not sure if he’s doing it to get more people to watch his Series on Golazo Network (see Pulisic Docuseries Trailer) or what. Tim Weah, speaking on the CBS Sports series Pulisic about criticism by former USMNT stars now working as television and podcast commentators of Christian Pulisic‘s decision not to play in the 2025 Gold Cup. (Golazo Network). At this point lets just get to early September play our friendlies – Pulisic can come score a couple of goals and we can put this all behind us. Oh by the way the US men are coming to Columbus, Ohio Lower.com Field on Tuesday night Sept 9th for a 7:30 pm match up with #17 ranked Japan. The Ole Ballcoach is going along with some buddies to the game sitting in section 129 ($50) – close to the American Outlaws who will be in the Nordic Section 127. Visit http://ussoccer.spinzo.com/CarmelFC this special link to get discounted tickets. Let me know if you plan to join – feel free to send on to friends.

LEAGUES CUP four MLS vs. LIGA MX quarterfinals Wed Aug 20.

Quarterfinal matchups

Inter Miami CF (MLS 2) vs. Tigres UANL (LIGA MX 3) 8 pm on FS1, Apple TV Free
Seattle Sounders FC (MLS 1) vs. Club Puebla (LIGA MX 4) 11 pm FS1, Apple TV Free
LA Galaxy (MLS 3) vs. CF Pachuca (LIGA MX 2) 11:45 Apple TV Free
Orlando City (MLS 4) vs. Toluca FC (LIGA MX 1) 9 pm Apple TV Free

High School Soccer Season Kicks Off!

High school soccer officially starts this weekend across the state, and Carmel FC wants to send a huge congratulations and good luck to all our current players representing their schools this season. We’re proud to see you take the field, wear your school colors, and continue to showcase the skills, hard work, and sportsmanship you’ve developed here at Carmel FC. The Carmel High Girls Come in Ranked 3rd with new head coach John Simmons and Asst Coach and former Carmel FC Coach Carla Baker in charge replacing long time coach Frank Dixon at the helm. The CHS Boys are unranked after a 7-8-3 record but reached the Regional Semi’s last year.

ISCA Class 3A girls soccer poll

Hamilton Southeastern
Noblesville
Carmel
Crown Point
Evansville Memorial
Brownsburg
Cathedral
Castle
Center Grove
Homestead
Penn
East Central
Westfield
Zionsville
FW Carroll
Northridge
Fishers
Bloomington South
Lake Central
Mt. Vernon

ISCA Class 2A girls soccer poll

Lawrenceburg
Brebeuf Jesuit
Mishawaka Marian
FW Bishop Dwenger
SB Saint Joseph
Bishop Chatard
Guerin Catholic
Evansville Mater Dei
Bellmont
Hanover Central
Heritage Hills
Highland
Washington
FW Concordia Lutheran
West Lafayette
Hamilton Heights
Roncalli
Park Tudor
Gibson Southern
Madison

ISCA Class 3A boys soccer poll

Harrison (West Lafayette)
Hamilton Southeastern
Center Grove
FW Carroll
Zionsville
Fishers
Bloomington South
Noblesville
Concord
Evansville Memorial
Brownsburg
Cathedral
Columbus North
Goshen
Warsaw
Castle
Westfield
Chesterton
Crown Point
Penn

ISCA Class 2A boys soccer poll

FW Concordia Lutheran
Park Tudor
Hammond Bishop Noll
Bishop Chatard
Illiana Christian
Heritage Hills
FW Bishop Luers
Washington
South Bend St. Joseph
West Lafayette
Cascade
Hanover Central
Leo
Bethany Christian
FW Bishop Dwenger
Speedway
Culver Academy
Charleston
Heritage Christian
West Noble

Mike S, Shane & Scott F last preseason High School Scrimmage at Bishop Chatard Thurs Night. Excited to hit the fields Saturday at @ Heritage Christian & Guerin.

Had a blast training new Carmel Dad’s Club Refs Ryleigh, Fred, & Noah last weekend at Badger Field.

TV GAME SCHEDULE

Fri, Aug 15 EPL Starts
12 noon ESPN+ Grobaspach vs Bayer Leverkusen German Cup
3 pm USA Liverpool vs Bournemouth (Adams)
8 pm Amazon Prime Washington Spirit (Rodman) vs Racing Louisville NWSL
10 pm CBS Golazo Utah Royals vs Angel City (Thompsons) NWSL
Sat, Aug 16
7:20 am Para+ Wrexham vs West Brom
7:30 am USA Aston Villa vs New Castle United
10 am USA Brighton vs Fulham (Robinson is hurt)
12:30 pm NBC Wolverhampton vs Man City
1:30 pm ESPN2 Mallorca vs Barcelona
2:30 pm ESPN+ Stuttgart vs Bayern Munich
4 pm CBS KC Current vs Orlando Pride (Marta) NWSL
7 pm TV6, ESPN+ Loundoun United vs Indy 11
7:30 pm Apple TV free Inter Miami (Messi) vs LA Galaxy
7:30 pm ION NC Courage vs Portland Thorns NWSL
8:30 pm FS1 Minn vs Seattle Sounders
9 pm ESPN2 Tampa Bay Rowdies vs Phoenix Rising
10 pm ION Bay FC vs San Diego Wave NWSL
Sun, Aug 17
6:50 am Para+ Ipwich Town vs Southampton
9 am USA Chelsea vs Crystal Palace (Richards)
11:30 am NBC Man United vs Arsenal
3 pm Para+ AC Milan (Pulisic) vs Bari Copa Italia
3:30 pm ESPN2 Espanyol vs Athletico Madrid (Cardoso)
4 pm Para+? NY Gothem vs Houston Dash NWSL
5 pm Apple TV NYCFC vs Nashville
7 pm Apple TV San Jose vs San Diego
9 pm Apple TV Vancouver (Mueller) vs Houston
Mon, Aug, 18
3 pm USA Leeds United vs Everton
10 pm CBSSN Seattle Reign vs Chicago Red Stars NWSL
Weds Aug 20
Leagues Cup MLS vs Liga MX
Inter Miami CF (MLS 2) vs. Tigres UANL (LIGA MX 3) 8 pm on FS1, Apple TV Free
Seattle Sounders FC (MLS 1) vs. Club Puebla (LIGA MX 4) 11 pm FS1, Apple TV Free
LA Galaxy (MLS 3) vs. CF Pachuca (LIGA MX 2) 11:45 Apple TV Free
Orlando City (MLS 4) vs. Toluca FC (LIGA MX 1) 9 pm Apple TV Free
Sat, Sept 6
5 pm TNT, Tele, Max USA Men vs Korea
Tues, Sept 9
7:30 pm TNT, Tele, Max USA Men vs Japan in Columbus, Ohio
Fri, Oct 10
8:30 pm TNT, Max USA Men vs Ecuador
Tues, Oct 14
9 pm TNT, Max USA Men vs Australia

=====RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ===

Got some Good BarBQ for your Summer Plans ? Try out the Best BarBQ in Town right across the street (131st) from Northview Church on the corner of Hazelldell & 131st. RackZ BBQ

Save 20% on your order

(mention the ole ballcoach)

======================RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ======================

USA

Pulisic slams ‘cop-out’ criticism by ex-U.S. players
USMNT winger Paredes suffers fresh injury blow
Dest, Morris, Corboz, Pittman stand out, Jedi shelved, & Much More
Dest nets stunner as PSV hits 6 in league opener
How Columbus became US Fortress
MLS Commish Garber on Apple Deal, Legacy of 2026 World Cup
Discounted Tix for USA vs Japan in Columbus

EPL

Premier League 2025-26 mega-preview: Key stats, questions, predictions for all 20 teams
Liverpool favored over Man City to repeat in EPL
What’s new in the Premier League: War on holding, goalkeeper rule, RefCam, more
Ranked: The top 50 players going into the new Premier League season
Premier League Week 1 predicted starting XIs: Liverpool, Arsenal, Man City, more
Arteta: Arsenal need a ‘title’ to secure elite tag
Premier League 2025-26 kits: Ranking every jersey released
Men’s summer transfer grades: C+ for Grealish loan to Everton

Championship
Wrexham smash transfer record to sign Broadhead
For Wrexham to reach Premier League, they must survive tough Championship first

Fantasy
FPL tips 2025/26: 30 players you should consider signing including Palmer, Wirtz and Gyokeres

World

LaLiga 2025-26 burning questions: Barça, Real Madrid, title race, Mbappé vs. Yamal
GFFN journalists’ Ligue 1 season predictions 25/26
PSG stage stunning comeback vs. Tottenham to win Super Cup
Chelsea players donate some of Club World Cup winnings to Jota
Ranking the 30 best men’s soccer club managers in Europe
Men’s Ballon d’Or list: Yamal, Dembélé favourites
What’s in a soccer contract? Salary, add-ons, transfer fees, release clauses and more
Madrid want Barça-Villarreal U.S. game blocked
Could a Barça LaLiga game in Miami happen? Why do Real Madrid want to block it?

MLS

Müller lands in Vancouver: Feel ‘too good to retire’
Maga hats, anti-Ice banners and plenty of confusion: did MLS create its own political mess?

Goalkeeping

🧤Save of the night: Armani rescues River in Paraguay
Indy 11 Sulte in Save of Week Contention
Carmel’s own Eric Dick in Save of Week Contention for Pitt

Barça can register García after Ter Stegen ruling

Reffing

Premier League cracking down on holding in area

Premier League referees’ chief Howard Webb has suggested that VAR could be expanded to include reviews for yellow cards and corners. The technology is currently only used to review potentially match-changing decisions such as goals, straight red cards, penalties, and mistaken identity. The case in favour argues that second yellow cards, which result in red cards, can significantly influence a match. Webb revealed that the game’s law-making body, the International Football Association Board (Ifab), is considering changes to VAR’s scope, including discussions around possible extensions for the technology. This comes after Uefa recently opposed measures to widen VAR’s powers to intervene in corner kicks and yellow cards, arguing it would increase delays. In related news, Webb said it would be “tough” for David Coote to return to top-level refereeing after being sacked for making derogatory remarks about Liverpool and then manager Jurgen Klopp. “Under the circumstances, it’s difficult [for him to return],” said Webb. “We stay in contact and care about him, but it would be tough.”

Americans abroad

Dest, Morris, Corboz, Pittman stand out, Jedi shelved, & Much More

ASN’s Brian Sciaretta writes up his thoughts from the weeekend amongst Americans abroad. Sergino Dest looked terrific, while Scott Pittman, Aidan Morris, Marlon Fossey, and Mael Corboz are also standout performers. Plenty of good and bad to go through.

BY Brian SciarettaPosted
August 11, 2025
9:00 AM

SHARE THIS STORY

IT WAS A BUSY weekend for Americans in Europe, despite the top divisions in Germany, England, France, and Italy still at the tail end of preseason. Many U.S. players, in including USMNT hopefuls, were in action in both regular season and preseason games.

For now, let’s just get right into it and we will start with the Eredivisie opening weekend.

Dest shines vs. PSV

One of the big stories this weekend for American in Europe was the big statement made by defending champion PSV, who sold a lot of talent this summer (including USMNT midfielder Malik Tillman) but also spent money on new players.

Despite playing well at times this preseason, Ricardo Pepi was not deemed fit enough to be in the squad for Saturday’s opener against Sparta Rotterdam. But Sergino Dest, who mist most games this calendar year, including the Gold Cup, did start.

The news could not have been any better for Dest, who played in top form and did not show any indication of his ACL tear or subsequent injury at the end of the season. He played like the high level player he is.

Dest scored the third goal in a 6-1 win over Sparta that featured PSV having five different goal scorers. That is what makes this team difficult to beat – numerous scoring options.

https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1954270649280565616&lang=en&origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americansoccernow.com%2Farticles%2Fdest-morris-corboz-pittman-stand-out-jedi-shelved-amp-much-more&sessionId=b97d7ee8871e8e33f101a73908a1608b9f865519&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px

Overall, Dest played 82 minutes and had three shots. He was consistently dangerous. This bodes well for both PSV and the USMNT as it heads into the fall.

Rest of Eredivisie

In the rest of the Eredivisie outside of PSV, Taylor Booth started and played all 90 minutes for Twente in a 1-0 loss to PEC Zwolle. It was a disappointing result for Twente, who is expected to be in contention for a top five finish, because Zwolle is typically in relegation battles.

Booth, 24, wasn’t one of Twente’s problems on the day and he did create a few chances. He had his own shot in the box blocked in the first few minutes and then he set up two chances later in the game with crosses.

Booth is still likely a long way off from the USMNT but a good season could put him into the picture next year, likely after the World Cup.

The younger Booth brother, Zack Booth, had a tough game in Excelsior’s opener as he came off the bench in the 71^st minute in a 5-0 loss to NEC Nijmegen. The game was 4-0 when he came on. The best news for Booth, 21, is that Excelsior will likely have to make changes after such a poor result.

Championship: Morris impresses for Boro

There are a lot of Americans in the Championship this season and we could see a few involved in the promotion races.

Aidan Morris, 23, was solid in central midfield for Middlesborough in a 1-0 win over Swansea to open the season. He was good at setting the pace and helping Boro win the possession battles.

https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-1&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1954213322712080483&lang=en&origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americansoccernow.com%2Farticles%2Fdest-morris-corboz-pittman-stand-out-jedi-shelved-amp-much-more&sessionId=b97d7ee8871e8e33f101a73908a1608b9f865519&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px

It wasn’t a flashy performances, but he is very important to the Boro midfield moving forward.

After a big 2024/25 campaign, Josh Sargent scored his first goal of the new season in Norwich’s opening day win. The 55^th minute goal was an equalizer in what eventually turned out to be a 2-1 loss at home to Millwall.

The goal was all hustle as Sargent blocked a goalkeeper clearance directly back into the goal. It was more seen as a goalkeeper error, but Sargent hustled on the play.

Sargent remains an interesting player for the rest of the month. Norwich is still hopeful of selling him, as they could use the money. But for Sargent to get interest, he needs to keep scoring in any way possible. But where does Sargent want to go? Turning down Wolfsburg two weeks ago shows signs of a limited options.

https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-2&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1954201306064683276&lang=en&origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americansoccernow.com%2Farticles%2Fdest-morris-corboz-pittman-stand-out-jedi-shelved-amp-much-more&sessionId=b97d7ee8871e8e33f101a73908a1608b9f865519&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px

Damion Downs played the final 31 minutes for Southampton and was on the field as they scored two very late goals to turn a 1-0 loss into a 2-1 win over Wrexham in the season opener. It was a good shift for Downs as he was involved in the final goal where he slightly touched a pass to Jack Stephens, who smashed in the winner from close range.

Downs, 21, is in a good spot. He will continue to get chances and he will contribute to a team that should be in contention to bounce right back up.

George Campbell came on in the dying minutes for West Brom to help see out a 1-0 victory over Blackburn. It marked his debut for the club after moving from Montreal earlier in the transfer window.

Charlton defeated Watford 1-0 on Saturday. Charlie Kelman, 23, started and played 71 minutes for Charlton. He is coming off a season where he won the third-tier League One scoring title with Leyton Orient. Caleb Wiley was out with a back injury for Watford. Kelman had a good chance to score in the 59^th minute but his close-range shot was saved. Charlton found a stoppage time winner to earn all three points.

Scotland: Pittman & CCV stand out

Scott Pittman, 33, has scored goals in Livingston FC’s first two games of the Scottish Premiership season. The latest in a 3-1 win over Falkirk on Saturday.

The all-time appearance leader for Livingston opened the scoring in the 18^th minute with a shot from inside the box for a 1-0 lead.

https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-3&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1954467767316631711&lang=en&origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americansoccernow.com%2Farticles%2Fdest-morris-corboz-pittman-stand-out-jedi-shelved-amp-much-more&sessionId=b97d7ee8871e8e33f101a73908a1608b9f865519&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px

After earning promotion last season, Livingston is looking to pull away from a relegation battle early.

Celtic dominated its way to a 2-0 win over Aberdeen on Saturday. Cameron Carter-Vickers completed 139 passes in the win. Auston Trusty completed 51 passes in just 24 minutes when he came on to see out the win.

Those passing numbers reflect Celtic’s domination in possession which typically began with the central defenders.

https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-4&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1954593889072939462&lang=en&origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americansoccernow.com%2Farticles%2Fdest-morris-corboz-pittman-stand-out-jedi-shelved-amp-much-more&sessionId=b97d7ee8871e8e33f101a73908a1608b9f865519&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px

Coincidentally enough, Aberdeen’s best chance of the game came from American midfielder Dante Polvara in the 75^th minute – two minutes after he subbed on. His right footed shot from close range was saved.

Belgium: Fossey scores in big Standard win

Standard Liege defeated Genk 2-1 on Sunday to move to seven points from three games to start the Belgium First Division season. Standard captain and USMNT hopeful Marlon Fossey scored in the 54^th minute to give Standard a 2-1 lead – which he then celebrated with a back flip.

On the play, Fossey, 26, moved into the attack and was able to pounce on a ball from close range and beat the keeper with a shot into the top of the net.

https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-5&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=true&id=1954878499774144621&lang=en&origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americansoccernow.com%2Farticles%2Fdest-morris-corboz-pittman-stand-out-jedi-shelved-amp-much-more&sessionId=b97d7ee8871e8e33f101a73908a1608b9f865519&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px

Will Fossey make it back into the USMNT picture? It seems difficult. With Dest now back, Alex Freeman continuing to impress in Orlando, and Joe Scally continuing to be the starter for Borussia Monchengladbach, there is a crowded field. But performances like this don’t hurt.

Also in Belgium, Westerlo dropped a 1-0 loss at home to KV Mechelen at home after conceding a goal in the 84^th minute. Griffin Yow started at right wing for Westerlo but was subbed out after the first half as part of a tactical change. Despite the loss, Bryan Reynolds had a strong 90-minute shift at right back. Both Yow and Reynolds could move before the end of the month as they have likely done all they can do for a small club like Westerlo. The club could also use the money but it comes down to offers.

2.Bundesliga: Corboz impresses again

It was the second matchday in the 2.Bundesliga season where several Americans play their trade. This week, there were two games that saw multiple players involved.

Holstein Kiel dropped a 2-0 decision to Arminia Bielefeld and it was a big setback for Holstein Kiel, which has no points from the first two games in a season where they are coming back down from the Bundesliga.

John Tolkin, 23, started for Holstein Kiel but was subbed out at halftime for tactical reasons as both wingbacks were removed. The tactical shift did not help at all. Tolkin was okay in his 45 minutes, but the team overall was very poor and does not want to have a poor start to the season. Such starts only create relegations battles.

On the flip side, Arminia Bielefeld was excellent and now has a perfect six points from two games – immediately coming off promotion last year. Led by American captain Mael Corboz, Arminia Bielefeld is off to a great start. Corboz has done well to add maturity to a team that looks ready for the 2.Bundesliga. Corboz, 30, is one of the best “under the radar” stories in American soccer.

Eintracht Braunschweig defeated Greuther Furth 3-2 and Johan Gomez enjoyed one of his best performances in years when he came off the bench in the 61^st minute. He was dangerous, assisted on goal that was called back, won a lot of duels, and built a case to start for the club.

For Eintracht, the club has six points from two games. This is huge after narrowly avoiding relegation last season.

On the flip side, Furth sits on three points from two games after the loss. Both Julian Green and Max Dietz both started. Green was subbed out in the 86^th minute while Dietz went the whole game. Neither stood out.

On Friday, Paderborn drew Preussen Munster 1-1. Santiago Castaneda, 20, started in defensive midfield for Paderborn but did not stand out in his 78 minutes. Both of the Tampa native’s first two games have been quiet.

Richards wins Community Shield

Chris Richards can now add a Community Shield to his trophy case as played the entire game at Wembley as his Crystal Palace defeated reigning Premier League champions Liverpool on penalties after a 2-2 draw.

Richards had a “hockey assist” on his team’s second goal and saw his header off a corner saved in the 61^st minute.

https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-6&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1954598571501563955&lang=en&origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americansoccernow.com%2Farticles%2Fdest-morris-corboz-pittman-stand-out-jedi-shelved-amp-much-more&sessionId=b97d7ee8871e8e33f101a73908a1608b9f865519&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px

Richards looks to be in great shape to start the Premier League season next week. His great calendar year of 2025.

Elsewhere abroad

In Poland’s Ekstraklassa, Jagiellonia Bialystok defeated Cracovia 5-2 with Aziel Jackson making his first start for Bialystok in the win. Leon Flach also played the final 12 minutes in the win. Kahveh Zahirolelam made his debut for Cracovia when he came on in the 79th minute.

In Croatia’s HNL, Hajduk Split defeated HNK Gorica 2-0. The win was helped by a Gorica red card in the 50th minute when the score was 0-0. Rokas Pukstas returned to the starting lineup after struggling to break in recently and he was helped by injuries that made him needed. He was active in the attack, despite no goal contributions. Was it enough for him to remain in in the starting lineup? That is an open question.

In the Austrian Bundesliga, George Bello scored in the 50th minute for LASK in a 3-1 loss to WSG Tirol. Sam Adeniran started for LASK but was ineffective. It was good news for Bello to have scored but LASK is winless after two games and has work to do in the weeks ahead.

Quincy Butley, 23, meanwhile started and played well for WSG on the right side of the midfield where he won duels and passed effectively. WSG has won its first two games of the season.

In the Swiss Super League, Lausanne dropped a 2-1 decision at home to FC Zurich. Konrad de la Fuente played the final 18 minutes in the loss.

In the Danish Superliga, Matthew Hoppe started for SonderjyskE but was held in check by Viborg in a 1-0 loss. Hoppe was subbed out in the 71st minute.

In Uruguay’s Primera, Agustin Anello played 82 minutes for Boston River in a 1-1 draw with Montevideo City Torque. Anello was subbed out with his team trailing 1-0 and down to 10 men. Boston River now has four points from two games.

Preseason & Transfer updates

Robinson on the shelf

Antonee Robinson has not played at all this preseason and will not be available for Fulham to start the season. Once figured to be the subject of transfer rumors this summer to big clubs, everything with Robinson has been quiet.

https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-7&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1954901686646149236&lang=en&origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americansoccernow.com%2Farticles%2Fdest-morris-corboz-pittman-stand-out-jedi-shelved-amp-much-more&sessionId=b97d7ee8871e8e33f101a73908a1608b9f865519&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px

It’s hard to see him part of the USMNT in September at this rate.

McKennie & Campbell meet

Juventus defeated Borussia Dortmund 2-1 and there is a lot to unpack in this game from an American perspective.

Weston McKennie came off the bench in the 66^th minute as part of a near-entire team substitution for Juventus.

There wasn’t much to report on his performance on the field. But off the field, we now have this – Roma interest.

https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-8&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1954790653507846410&lang=en&origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americansoccernow.com%2Farticles%2Fdest-morris-corboz-pittman-stand-out-jedi-shelved-amp-much-more&sessionId=b97d7ee8871e8e33f101a73908a1608b9f865519&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px

Every year, McKennie is on the brink of falling out of favor with Juventus and has always pulled himself back into the mix. But eventually this will end. Perhaps now is a good time for him to make a break and Roma is still a very high landing spot. McKennie knows Serie A well and likely wouldn’t need as much adjustment.

Also in this game was Cole Campbell, who played the last 15 minutes for Borussia Dortmund. This comes after interest from VfB Stuttgart was shelved – at least temporarily as Dortmund assess its winger situation. The speedy U.S. U-20 attacker has been on the edge of BVB’s first team and has made his debut. But works remains for him to be a consistent presence.

As expected, there was no Gio Reyna for BVB and there has been no breakthrough on the transfer front.

Captain McKenzie

Toulouse played Sevilla to a 1-1 draw in a preseason friendly and the big takeaway is that USMNT central defender Mark McKenzie wore the captain’s armband for Toulouse – a sign of his growing importance to the Ligue 1 club.

https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-9&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1954628824685023380&lang=en&origin=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americansoccernow.com%2Farticles%2Fdest-morris-corboz-pittman-stand-out-jedi-shelved-amp-much-more&sessionId=b97d7ee8871e8e33f101a73908a1608b9f865519&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px

Milan smashed by Chelsea

Chelsea smashed AC Milan 4-1 over the weekend with Yunus Musah starting and playing 73 minutes for Milan. It was 3-1 when Musah departed the game. Musah remains a player to watch in the weeks ahead as his preseason has not gone well. Milan might opt to drop their asking price and move on.

Proud Member of American Outlaws http://www.facebook.com/IndyAOUnite

Looking to Get a Professional Company Headshot? Check out https://capturely.com/ Tell Rob The Ole Ballcoach sent you and he’ll give you a deal.

DISCOUNT SMALL ENGINE & BIG ENGINE REPAIRS IN CARMEL

Antonee Robinson’s injury timetable underscores his importance to USMNT

Fulham and USMNT left back Antonee Robinson

By Jeff RueterAug. 14, 2025Updated 12:47 pm EDT The Athletic

No doubt, Fulham will feel a bit up against it heading into the club’s Premier League opener, away at Brighton.The 2024-25 season saw Antonee Robinson cement his place as one of Marco Silva’s most vital charges, arguably the best pure left back in the Premier League. Nicknamed “Jedi,” he’s proven capable of containing Bukayo Saka and Mohamed Salah on one end before dependably squaring crosses right into his striker’s stride. He gutted out an injury to his right knee until season’s end, finishing third in the fan-voted Player of the Season pageant after a 10-assist campaign.On Thursday, 48 hours before a trip to the AmEx, Silva confirmed that Robinson would not be available for selection as he works back from an offseason surgery on that vital plant-leg knee. So, too, would Ryan Sessegnon, leaving the Portuguese manager without his two top options at left back.Mauricio Pochettino may still be envying Silva’s situation. At least the Fulham boss has a viable alternative in the role to Robinson.It’s hardly a new phenomenon that the U.S. men’s national team is dangerously thin at left back. In fact, the program went over a decade with makeshift solutions, forcing players like DaMarcus Beasley and Fabian Johnson to own the role despite spending their careers up until that point further afield. While U.S. Soccer can’t take credit for Robinson’s development, his commitment was a clear end to holding the left side of the back line together with duct tape and chewing gum.While Robinson has amassed a tidy 50 caps to date, he’s been absent for the last four camps under Pochettino, a 12-game sample from which the coach has learned plenty about his player pool. He’s had his initial trust in Diego Luna validated by a star-making turn at the Gold Cup. That same tournament gave reason to think Matt Freese could be a shot-stopping alternative to Matt Turner in goal.There have been frustrating realizations, too. Mexico is back on the ascent, although that’s a bit more of a subplot than usual as both nations will abstain from World Cup qualifying this cycle. His faith in the core that helped qualify for the 2022 installment has potentially been rocked by Christian Pulisic and others opting out or missing out on the Gold Cup. And, more relevant to today’s news via Silva: he doesn’t have a clear alternative to Robinson at left back.

Antonee Robinson and Mauricio Pochettino USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino doesn’t have many options behind Antonee Robinson at left back (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images)

Unlike other USMNT mainstays like Gio Reyna, Pochettino and Robinson have already logged a bit of collaboration. The left back was on Pochettino’s first squad last October, and started both legs of the Concacaf Nations Leg quarterfinal against Jamaica the following month. In the second, Robinson assisted on the second goal of a 4-2 win that sent the U.S. through to the final four. Since then, however, Pochettino has had to play alternatives to Robinson. When an ailment kept Robinson out for the Nations League’s business end in March, it became a calamity: Panama targeted out-of-position Max Arfsten and, later, Joe Scally, exploiting the latter’s lack of awareness to score a last gasp winner in a 1-0 semifinal upset. Scally went on to start the third-place game, putting in such a poor shift that he got a halftime hook.In the 12 games that have passed since Robinson’s last U.S. appearance, four players have been called upon in his absence. Arfsten has been Pochettino’s most relied-upon alternative, appearing in nine of that dozen, most often as starter. John Tolkin, of recently relegated Holstein Kiel in Germany, has made five appearances, while Scally and DeJuan Jones have each appeared twice in the role. None have made a terribly compelling case for further looks.Throughout the Gold Cup, Arfsten and Tolkin — as indicated by their higher utilization — were the two options on Pochettino’s squad.Arfsten, a winger with the possession-dominant Columbus Crew, has fared about as you’d expect for a player who usually sees the game from a vastly different perspective. His attacking contributions were that of an ideal wingback, logging assists and chipping in goals as an auxiliary threat from wide. His defensive performances were riddled with the kinds of mistakes coaches have to drill out of defenders in the youth ranks, taking the bait and making needless fouls (like one just inside the box against Costa Rica that resulted in a penalty).Tolkin, largely as a substitute, has at least spent his career in the role since debuting with his boyhood New York Red Bulls. His issues more closely mirror the struggles recently seen from young left backs George Bello, Kris Lund and Sam Vines: bona fide left backs, but unable to prove themselves at the international level.There’s a paucity of alternatives, too. Unlike other spots, there’s no alternative who hasn’t been tested and is flying under the radar. The closest to matching that mold is Caleb Wiley, the Chelsea prospect who earned three caps in 2023 and 2024 but hasn’t been in a national team camp since Pochettino took charge. While it’s impressive for a 20-year-old to have amassed 135 club appearances, mostly with Atlanta United before the club from London came calling, his first loan with Strasbourg was inconclusive. He’s at Watford now, and could very easily work into the fold in the months to come. The other alternatives to Scally are, in the program’s grand tradition, playing out of position. There’s Arfsten, still tapping into his winger’s instincts at the expense of his team’s defending. There’s Scally shifting over from right back (and Sergiño Dest before him, the first-choice option in that spot), who fancy themselves to put in a shift on the left. Even then, it weakens the right back contingent that is seemingly three players deep: Dest, Scally, Alex Freeman. If Robinson’s recovery timetable will keep him out of the next international camp spanning from Sept. 1-9 (the fifth-to-last camp before the 2026 World Cup), those speculative alternatives may get another chance to log starts and fortify their cases for inclusion. Pochettino and a fanbase starved for optimism will rightfully hope for a pleasant surprise. As it stands right now, it’s a bleak reality for the USMNT: against ideal operational standards, this is a Jedi without a worthy padawan. (Top photo: Julian Finney/Getty Images)

La Liga season preview: Our predictions on Barcelona, Real Madrid and much more

By Dermot Corrigan

Aug. 15, 2025 12:20 am EDT

The new La Liga season gets started later on Friday, with defending champions Barcelona opening at Real Mallorca tomorrow and Real Madrid welcoming Osasuna on Tuesday.

As usual, there is no shortage of storylines, including Barca again struggling to register their new signings, Madrid once more battling against La Liga’s authorities and Atletico Madrid spending big to try to challenge the Clasico duo for the title. There’s also plenty of political intrigue, controversy, figures under pressure and the possibility for history to be made on and off the pitch.

The Athletic has taken its annual stab at predicting how things will go (which will hopefully turn out better than last year, when we predicted Barcelona would sack new manager Hansi Flick by Christmas)…

Who will win La Liga and why?

Flick had a phenomenal first season in charge at Barcelona, winning the domestic treble of La Liga, Copa del Rey and Supercopa.

His squad is arguably stronger this year. Defender Inigo Martinez has left, but on-loan Marcus Rashford brings another option in attack, and most importantly, the team’s young core should be even better — centre-back Pau Cubarsi, midfielders Pedri and Gavi, and especially emerging-superstar attacker Lamine Yamal.

Can Flick’s Barca build further on last season’s success? (Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

Madrid also look to have significantly improved, with a rebuilt defence and fresh energy and impetus under new coach Xabi Alonso. Atletico have spent a lot again to try to mount a challenge, and Diego Simeone arguably now has the deepest squad of his 14 seasons in charge. But Alonso’s impact across the capital could be hampered by minimal pre-season preparation time after going to the final four of the Club World Cup last month, while Simeone’s new signings might take a while to settle in.

So, assuming Barcelona’s annual issues with actually registering their new players are resolved, and they get to return to play at their iconic Camp Nou again from September as planned, Flick’s team should be celebrating another title in May.What You Should Read NextHansi Flick and the curious challenge of a second season at BarcelonaThe German manager has proved himself an expert handler of Barca’s infamous ‘entorno’. Can he build on last season’s success?

Who else will qualify for the Champions League?

Barcelona, Madrid and Atletico have finished among the top four in Spain every year since 2012-13, and they will again this time. But the race for the fourth Champions League qualification spot looks wide open.

Athletic Bilbao and Villarreal are playing in that competition this season, so their domestic form could suffer as they juggle the extra eight games. That might open up an opportunity for Real Betis, who continue to make progress year on year under veteran coach Manuel Pellegrini. Betis’ top-four challenge will be especially strong if they can secure the return of Brazilian attacker Antony from Manchester United after his impressive loan spell in the second half of last season.

https://e2f6d63cb7cd781a752a15b785bf8705.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-45/html/container.html

Mallorca could potentially challenge for a European spot, while Valencia improved tremendously after Carlos Corberan took over as coach in January.

Who will be the biggest underperformers?

One of the biggest questions is how Madrid’s Club World Cup exertions, tacked onto the end of last season, will affect how they start this new campaign.

Madrid’s players finally got to go on holiday on July 10, after losing 4-0 to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals in the United States. They then returned for pre-season training on August 4, just 15 days before they welcome Osasuna to the Bernabeu for both sides’ opening La Liga fixture.

Managing that situation is a huge challenge for new coach Alonso, who also has to integrate three new defenders in Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen and Alvaro Carreras.

Alonso was appointed as Madrid coach back in May (Sara Gordon/Real Madrid via Getty Images)

Their games at the Club World Cup suggested that Alonso’s biggest issue will be how to fit both Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior into his XI while implementing a version of the high-energy, high-pressing style he used at previous club Bayer Leverkusen.

Midfielder Jude Bellingham will be missing until mid-October at least, following a summer operation to fix a long-running shoulder issue, and players could also still leave in the summer transfer window, including Brazilian attacker Rodrygo.

Alonso could well end up being a success at the Bernabeu – he has the experience and nous to deal with the challenge of the job – but there might be some bumps along the way, and Madrid could be playing catch-up in the 2025-26 title race from early on.

How do you expect the promoted clubs to do?

Levante, Elche and Real Oviedo would all see a 17th-place finish in the 20-club table, so avoiding an immediate return to the second tier, as success.

The three promoted clubs are working with limited finances, having spent around €10million (£8.6m; $11.7m) between them so far on new players (for comparison, the three teams promoted to the Premier League this summer have spent over €300m combined).

But they all have superb stories to follow.

Oviedo’s club captain is former Arsenal and Spain playmaker Santi Cazorla, now 40, whose fairytale return to his hometown club saw him score in last June’s emotional play-off final victory.What You Should Read NextSanti Cazorla on ‘ideal Arsenal coach’ Mikel Arteta and Barca’s ‘unfair’ treatment of XaviThe former Arsenal midfielder, who is now 40 and playing for boyhood club Real Oviedo, speaks to The Athletic

Levante’s players, coach and staff played a big role in providing crucial supplies and support when the team’s home city of Valencia was badly flooded last October. Elche owner Christian Bragarnik’s CV includes experience as a striker in fifth-tier Argentine football, time spent as a video-store assistant, and working as an agent to Diego Maradona.

Who will be the best young player this season?

Yamal only turned 18 in mid-July and could already be the best player in Spain, if not the world, so he’s a good candidate for this section.

But Franco Mastantuono, Madrid’s new €63million signing from River Plate in Argentina, is even younger (his 18th birthday was on Thursday) and, some say, just as talented.

Already a senior Argentina international, Mastantuono is used to dealing with pressure and expectation. He has already played 64 senior games for River, scoring 10 goals and providing seven assists. Some of those goals were spectacular, especially the tremendous free kick scored in a 2-1 derby victory against fierce local rivals Boca Juniors in April.

https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?creatorScreenName=TheAthletic&dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=1933518282071633934&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nytimes.com%2Fathletic%2F6550631%2F2025%2F08%2F15%2Fla-liga-new-season-real-madrid-barcelona-atletico%2F&sessionId=5167feaecee7e26b355ad2f6c585bbcb45f7610b&siteScreenName=TheAthletic&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px

Many kids have arrived at Madrid with big hype and have taken a long time to settle, or just never made it at all. But people who know Mastantuono reckon he can hit the ground running and quickly rival Yamal as the hottest teenager in La Liga.

Which under-the-radar figure have the big clubs been sleeping on?

Athletic Club’s Mikel Jauregizar had a real breakout season in 2024-25 and is fast developing into one of the top defensive midfielders in La Liga. Only 18 months on from his senior debut, the super-combative and mobile 21-year-old has established himself as a key member of coach Ernesto Valverde’s team.

Jauregizar, pictured in pre-season for Athletic (Joris Verwijst/BSR Agency/Getty Images)

He is not the biggest at 177cm (5ft 10in), but Jauregizar ranked third-highest among all midfielders for tackles in La Liga last season. That ability to regain possession and then launch attackers such as brothers Inaki and Nico Williams was key to Valverde’s team’s success in finishing fourth.

Jauregizar did not help himself with his performance in Athletic Club’s biggest game of the season, being embarrassingly dribbled past by Manchester United centre-back Harry Maguire in the Europa League semi-final first leg at San Mames. But his career so far suggests he is a very quick learner, and playing in the Champions League this season should bring plenty more experience and exposure.

https://e2f6d63cb7cd781a752a15b785bf8705.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-45/html/container.html

Which club have had the best transfer window?

For much of last season, Atletico appeared set to seriously compete on all fronts, but their season shuddered to a stop in March with a series of disappointing defeats by Barcelona and Madrid across La Liga, Copa del Rey and the Champions League.

Atletico’s subsequent summer spending of around €150million looks directly aimed at fixing issues in the squad highlighted during that tough spell. Slovakia defender David Hancko and United States international midfielder Johnny Cardoso bring more physicality, while Italian Matteo Ruggeri and Spain’s Alex Baena form an all-new left flank.

United States international Cardoso in action for Atletico in pre-season against Newcastle (Andy Buchanan/AFP via Getty Images)

On paper, they all look like excellent acquisitions. The question now is how Simeone integrates all his new players and whether he can get them to buy quickly into his trademark super-intense style of play.

If it all clicks, Atletico’s challenge could go a lot further this season.

Which club have had the worst transfer window?

Villarreal supporters had known that Spain international Baena was set to leave, and the club banking €42million from Atletico and signing Las Palmas’ Alberto Moleiro as a replacement for €16m was not such bad business. Similarly, selling inconsistent forward Thierno Barry to Everton for €30m and getting Spain Under-21 international centre-back Rafa Marin on loan from Napoli look like smart moves.

Less easy to understand is bringing in former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey on a free transfer.

Partey’s experience and ability could be useful on the pitch as Villarreal return to the Champions League this season, but for many, it is just unacceptable to sign a player who has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault in England. Partey denies the charges, and club president Fernando Roig said on Tuesday: “We respect the presumption of innocence and of course we condemn any kind of violence, inside or outside football.”

Tell us one great storyline we might have missed…

Barcelona’s issues around registering their summer signings with La Liga are eye-catching due to the size of the club and the regular drama involved, but they are far from the only ones struggling in this area ahead of the new season.

Just days before the games kick off this weekend, more than 50 new arrivals had yet to be officially registered with La Liga. Clubs still looking to make room within their budget included the three promoted clubs, as well as Sevilla, Celta Vigo, Espanyol, Getafe, Real Sociedad, Betis and Alaves.

So some well-known names are likely to watch their new team’s opening game from the stands, while a frantic couple of weeks of wheeling and dealing are likely until the end of the transfer window.

What will be making headlines as the season progresses?

La Liga president Javier Tebas has been openly trying to stage official Spanish top-flight games in the United States since 2018, but until now has always been denied by a mix of political and practical factors.

Tebas is nothing if not dogged, however, and many of the big hurdles have now been removed — including the settlement of a U.S. legal case between world football’s governing body FIFA and promoters Relevent, and improved relations with the Spanish FA in the post-Luis Rubiales era.

A plan to play late December’s Villarreal vs Barcelona fixture in Miami is now well advanced, with both clubs publicly backing the idea.

The biggest opposition domestically comes from Madrid president Florentino Perez, while green lights are still required from the European game’s rulers UEFA, Concacaf (the regional federation that includes the U.S.) and the United States Soccer Federation.

Though it’s not yet fully sorted, sooner or later, Tebas’ signature project looks certain to happen.

(Top photos of Rashford, left, and Alexander-Arnold: Getty Images)

FourFourTwo Premier League Season Previews 2025-26

By Ewan Gennery published August 8, 2025

Our legendary previews on all 20 teams set to grace the Premier League this season is here, brought to you by expert journalists and hardcore fans at the heart of each club

Comments (0)

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool, lifts the Premier League trophy after his team's victory in the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Crystal Palace FC at Anfield on May 25, 2025 in Liverpool, England.

Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool, lifts the Premier League trophy after his team’s victory in the 2024/25 Premier League (Image credit: Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Jump To:

↔︎

We’re not far away from the start of the 2025/26 Premier League and all the twists, turns and drama that comes with it.

The transfer market has been going into overdrive as teams look to do battle once again, with some mouthwatering spectacles set to light up the pitch again from August to May.

Read on for FourFourTwo’s preview on all 20 Premier League teams in the 2025/26 season…You may like

Arsenal

Bukayo Saka celebrates with Gabriel Martinelli after scoring for Arsenal against Real Madrid (Image credit: Getty Images)

After finishing second for a third season in a row last year, Arsenal are looking to go one better and finally lift the Premier League title. Preseason has been strong, with several new signings through the door, and now, Mikel Arteta is ready to take his side over the line and lift silverware this season.

FourFourTwo has your complete season preview ahead of the new campaign, with the lowdown on star players, what to expect and predictions of what’s to come over the next few months, along with Arsenal’s full fixture list, too.

Aston Villa

Unai Emery’s Aston Villa missed out on Champions League football on the final day of last season. After another impressive campaign, in which they qualified for European football, reached the quarter-final of the Champions League, and the semi-final of the FA Cup, they will be looking to continue finishing inside the top six and make a serious play for one of the cups.

FourFourTwo has everything you need for the new term with our season preview. Get the inside scoop on star players, what to look forward to, and our predictions for the coming months, along with Aston Villa’s fixtures.

Get FourFourTwo Newsletter

The best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

Brentford

Brentford are entering uncharted waters. For the first time in the Premier League they will not be led by Thomas Frank, and Bryan Mbeumo will not be in the squad. They have attempted to negate too much disruption by appointing former set-piece coach Keith Andrews, while they’ve brought in Caoimhin Kelleher and Jordan Henderson as they look to solidify their mid-table status.

Your essential guide to the new season is here. FourFourTwo brings you the full preview, including key players, team expectations, our final predictions and Brentford’s fixtures.

Brighton

This will be Brighton’s eighth season in the Premier League and they enter with significant expectations. 18-year-old Charalampos Kostoulas has become their third highest transfer of all-time as they look to push for European football for the second-time in their history.

Ahead of the new campaign, FourFourTwo offers your complete season preview. We’ve got the lowdown on the biggest stars, what to expect, and a glimpse into our predictions for the next few months – plus Brighton’s full fixture list.

Burnley

Burnley finished second in the Championship last season with 100 points, the most ever for a team in second place, only beaten to the title on goal difference. Across the 46 games, they conceded just 16 goals, but shot-stopper James Trafford has returned to Manchester City. Scott Parker will be hoping they can build on their strong defensive performance and stay up this season.

Get ready for the new season with FourFourTwo’s comprehensive preview. We’ll give you the scoop on star players and share our predictions for the months ahead, along with Burnley’s complete fixture list.

Bournemouth

Fresh off the back of their record points tally, Bournemouth will be looking to go one further and reach European football for the first time. Adoni Iroala’s side however, will be without much of their defence from last season, including Kepa Arrizabalaga, Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez making their task slightly more difficult.

FourFourTwo’s new season preview is out now. Dive into our analysis of key players and our predictions for what’s to come over the next few months – and check out Bournemouth’s fixture list, too.

Chelsea

Club World Cup champions Chelsea head into the season with lofty expectations. Their impressive performance in America this summer shows their scatter-gun transfer approach has worked and after spending north of £250 million again this summer, the Blues fans will be hoping they can make a serious bid for the title.

And the new season is almost here: FourFourTwo has your complete preview, covering everything from top players to our final predictions, and even Chelsea’s fixtures.

Crystal Palace

The mood is mixed at Selhurst Park. On the one hand, Oliver Glasner has delivered nothing that any Eagles manager has ever done before and won a trophy: the good feeling isn’t going to disappear any time soon, and Crystal Palace fans are hoping to push on up the league – but on the other, the cloud of the European football debacle and what competition they’ll be dropped into still lingers.

We’ve got everything you need to know ahead of the start of a new campaign with our comprehensive season preview, delving into what to look forward to and where Palace will be in another year’s time – plus, see Crystal Palace’s fixture list.

Everton

David Moyes is back at the wheel at Everton and the Toffees are under new ownership, as they look to buck the recent trend of fighting the drop and push on up the league: it’s arguably the most exciting time to be on the blue side of Merseyside for quite some time – and that’s before you factor in the small matter of a new home.

Find out what to expect from the new campaign: FourFourTwo provides a full season preview, including insights on star players and our predictions for the months ahead, along with Everton’s fixture list.

Fulham

Fulham are looking up in the table. Marco Silva has been in charge since 2021 now and with the Cottagers having kept key stars over the summer, now could be the time to mount a serious charge up the Premier League.

FourFourTwo’s complete season preview is here to get you ready. We’ve got the details on top players, what to expect, a look at our predictions and Fulham’s fixture list.

Leeds United

Leeds United are back in the big time – but can they remain there? Things are going to be tough for the Championship winners but after strengthening this summer, they’re in a good position to give it a whirl.

Be prepared for what’s to come: FourFourTwo offers you a full preview with the lowdown on star players and our predictions for the months to come, plus Leeds’ complete fixtures.

Liverpool

Liverpool have refused to stand still. After winning the title last term, big money has been spent on improving Arne Slot’s side, as Florian Wirtz joins for a British record fee and two new full-backs join the side.

Are the Reds set for the new season? FourFourTwo has you covered with our complete preview, featuring key players, what’s expected, and our predictions, along with Liverpool’s fixture list.

Manchester City

Manchester City failed to win the title last year for the first time in five seasons. Now, armed with new recruits across the pitch and newfound fire to get back on top, Pep Guardiola is looking to wrestle back his crown.

FourFourTwo’s complete season preview is here to get you hyped for the new campaign. We break down the star players, what you can expect, and our predictions for the campaign, ahead of Manchester City’s full fixtures.

Manchester United

Bryan Mbeumo hopes to hit the ground running at Old Trafford — Bryan Mbeumo trains with Manchester United (Image credit: Getty Images)

Last season was a generational low for a Manchester United side that finished 15th and lost the Europa League final. There’s certainly hope, however, that complete with a new-look frontline, the Red Devils can go again and that boss Ruben Amorim can start to get this side clicking under his system.

Before the new campaign kicks off, check out our full season preview from FourFourTwo. You’ll get the inside scoop on top players, what to anticipate, and what we think will happen over the next few months – and check out Manchester United’s complete fixture list.

Newcastle United

Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe has endured a challenging summer transfer window — Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe (Image credit: Getty Images)

Newcastle United may have had a tough summer but they go into the new season having lifted a trophy last term and with Champions League to look forward to. Despite the struggles in the transfer market, Eddie Howe has built a side to be feared on the pitch: and this is a club that will be looking to go even further in their ambitions.

Ready for the new season? FourFourTwo has you covered with our in-depth preview. We give you the lowdown on the players to watch and share our predictions for the coming months, ahead of Newcastle’s fixtures.

Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest bucked all expectations last term with a finish in the European places – and after the unexpected bonus of Europa League football to look forward to, the Tricky Trees are welcoming European football back for the first time in a generation. There’s plenty to be excited by.

The new season is just around the corner, and our complete preview is finally here. FourFourTwo gives you the essential details on star players, a rundown of expectations, and a look at our predictions, plus Forest’s fixture list.

Sunderland

Sunderland’s dramatic promotion in the play-offs sees the Black Cats returning to the Premier League and wanting to do far more than make up the numbers: if summer business has anything to go by, they could be about to spring a few surprises, too.

What’s in store for the new season? Find out with our complete preview from FourFourTwo. We’ve got the scoop on key players, what to expect, and our predictions for the months to come – and we’ve even got Sunderland’s complete fixture schedule.

Tottenham Hotspur

FFT381.feat_whatsnew_a.shutterstock_editorial_15364130i — Tottenham boss Thomas Frank (Image credit: Copyright (c) 2025 Shutterstock Editorial. No use without permission.)

Optimism at Tottenham Hotspur is unusually high for a team that only scraped 17th in the table last season: that will be because Thomas Frank has arrived, preseason has been positive and the Europa League triumph last season means that the trophy curse has finally been banished. Now, Spurs can start looking upwards again.

The wait is over: FourFourTwo presents our comprehensive season preview, complete with a close look at the most exciting players and our predictions for the next few months., along with Tottenham’s fixture lists.

West Ham United

Tomas Soucek is the Hammers' unsung hero, according to fans — West Ham man Tomas Soucek (Image credit: Getty Images)

West Ham United are quietly going about their business this summer and with a highly-rated coach in Graham Potter, they’ll be hoping to cause some upsets and return to battling for Europe.

Anticipation is building, and so is our new season preview: FourFourTwo brings you all the essential info on players to watch and our bold predictions for the season – plus, West Ham’s fixtures.

Wolverhampton Wanderers

Wolves boss Vitor Pereira has done a fine job since his arrival in December 2024 — Wolves boss Vitor Pereira (Image credit: Getty Images)

Wolverhampton Wanderers enjoyed a remarkable turnaround under Vitor Pereira last season – but having lost star players Rayan Ait-Nouri and Matheus Cunha, can the Old Gold expect another campaign like last, or can they push on up the Premier League?

Get a head start on the new campaign with the FourFourTwo season preview: we’ll give you a full rundown on the top stars and offer our predictions for the season ahead, along with Wolves’ complete fixtures.

Premier League Predictions: Liverpool vs Bournemouth, Man Utd vs Arsenal and the rest of Matchday 1

Oliver Kay

Aug. 15, 2025Updated 2:29 am EDT

Welcome to the first edition of The Athletic’s new Premier League Predictions game.

This is where you (our lovely subscribers) have the opportunity to join a data algorithm, a six-year-old boy, and me in putting our credibility on the line on a weekly basis.

Every week, we will give score predictions for each of the 10 Premier League games, with a correct scoreline gaining three points and a correct result gaining one point. To make things more interesting, there will be a bonus point if a player is the only one to get a scoreline or result correct. You’ll be able to see the standings from next week.

We will have a different subscriber each week, chosen from those who have replied with their interest (see here for how to get involved and for other general information), but I will be a constant throughout the season until May, along with the algorithm and, of course, six-year-old Wilfred.The more I talk about this, the more convinced I am that The Athletic are setting me up for a fall here, exposing not only my inability to predict the outcome of football matches but, even worse, my blatant bias against your team.Ah, let’s brush away these pangs of insecurity. Three hundred and eighty Premier League matches lie ahead of us from now to May 24, so let’s get cracking.For the opening weekend, the subscribers will be represented by Vaageesh, a Manchester United supporter who hails from Chennai, India. Will he tip his beloved team to hit the ground running against Arsenal? Will any of us? This is already causing me more stress than I thought it would…

Our subscriber’s match of the week

Manchester United vs Arsenal, Sunday 4.30pm BST/11.30am ET

Vaageesh says: “I don’t have much time; I’m writing this moments after entrapping my battling optimistic and pessimistic selves in a bunker. Here’s the rationale: Manchester United’s ability in transition will cancel out Arsenal’s confidence when in possession and neither will quite have the fluidity required to pull ahead despite the fact that both teams seem to have improved over the summer.”

Manchester United 1-1 Arsenal

Oli says: I’m old enough to remember Arsenal, as champions, being obliterated on the opening day in 1989-90 by a new-look Manchester United team, for whom it proved a classic false dawn. United’s prospective new owner, Michael Knighton, was on the pitch beforehand, ball-juggling and blowing kisses to the crowd, and Neil Webb smashed one in from 25 yards on his debut — wild stuff, honestly (yeah, get on with it, Grandad).If I close my eyes, I can imagine a scenario where something similar happens — this new United front line looks perfect for a balmy Sunday afternoon in August — but… no, not quite. This Arsenal team strike me as too serious to be rolled over on day one. I’ll try not to sit on the fence too often, but I’m going to have to go for a very lively draw here.

Manchester United 2-2 Arsenal

Bryan Mbeumo (left), Benjamin Sesko (middle) and Matheus Cunha (Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)

Oli’s other predictions

Liverpool vs Bournemouth

Oli says: If I describe this as an awkward start for Liverpool, it’s in part because Bournemouth are unconventional opponents. Nobody seems to have it easy against them. I’ll go for a home win, but not a comfortable one. It might be a tight, nervous one, requiring a lively cameo from Rio Ngumoha and a late winner from Mohamed Salah, that kind of thing.

Liverpool 2-1 Bournemouth

Aston Villa vs Newcastle

Oli says: They have both had challenging summers, but stylistically this is one of my favourite match-ups in the league. The past six meetings have seen four wins for Newcastle (4-0, 5-1, 3-1, 3-0) and two for Villa (3-0 and 4-1), and I could see this one swinging violently one way or the other. Which way? I’ll say Villa this time.

Aston Villa 3-1 Newcastle

Brighton vs Fulham

Oli says: Another nice match-up, another that could certainly go either way. Why am I going with Fulham to hit the ground running against a Brighton team I rate? Not sure, but perhaps because of their quiet summer in the transfer market, rather than despite it.

Brighton 1-2 Fulham

Sunderland vs West Ham

Oli says: I’ve missed having Sunderland in the Premier League — or certainly the notion of what Sunderland should or could be. The place will be rocking on Saturday and even though I like the look of a couple of West Ham’s signings, it’s a winnable opening game for Sunderland.

Sunderland 1-0 West Ham

Tottenham vs Burnley

Oli says: I don’t know what to expect from Tottenham this season, but I will at least predict a winning start. Burnley had an outstanding defensive record last season, but facing Dominic Solanke, Mohammed Kudus, etc, represents a step up in class for Scott Parker’s team.

Tottenham 2-1 Burnley

Wolves vs Man City

Oli says: The Wolves fans I know are all worried after another summer dominated by departures. As opening games go, this looks more likely to intensify the gloom rather than lift it. Manchester City always seem to hit the ground running — Erling Haaland in particular — and I expect that to continue.

Wolves 0-2 Manchester City

Chelsea vs Crystal Palace

Oli says: I don’t know how Chelsea’s Club World Cup exertions will affect them in the long run, but I fancy them to start well. Palace, incidentally, have been slow starters and excellent finishers over the past few seasons. There’s no reason to expect that pattern to continue, but Chelsea away on the opening weekend is tough.

Chelsea 2-1 Crystal Palace

Nottingham Forest vs Brentford

Oli says: Looking at how the fixtures have fallen, Forest are another team I fancy to start well — at least until the European commitments kick in, which will test their squad depth — whereas I’m slightly concerned for Brentford. I’m expecting a home win and a Morgan Gibbs-White goal, followed by a flamboyant kiss of the badge.

Nottingham Forest 2-0 Brentford

Leeds vs Everton

Oli says: For Leeds and their fans, this is the perfect opening game, particularly under the floodlights on a Monday night. They didn’t get to enjoy an occasion like this after promotion during the Covid pandemic in 2020, so I’m predicting an utterly wild atmosphere, an exuberant performance, a refereeing controversy, and, ultimately, a Leeds win to round off a lively opening weekend.

Leeds 2-1 Everton

(Top photo: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images; design: Demetrius Robinson)

How players force a transfer, Pulisic and Weah hit back at ‘evil’ ex-USMNT stars
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – MAY 25: Alexander Isak of Newcastle United applauds the fans as he warms up prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Everton FC at St James’ Park on May 25, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
By Phil Hay
Aug. 14, 2025
1

The Athletic FC ⚽ is The Athletic’s daily football (or soccer, if you prefer) newsletter. Sign up to receive it directly to your inbox.

Hello! Feigning injury, missing pre-season, downing tools. We’re covering the dark arts involved in convincing a club to sell you. Just don’t bother with an actual transfer request.

On the way:

How footballers force a move
Pulisic beef intensifies
Rooney fires back at Brady
A stone-cold 50-metre lob
Exit strategy: Isak wants to leave Newcastle… but how do players get their way?

Alexander Isak during pre-season training in July (Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)
I once asked a footballer (best left nameless) why, at one of his previous clubs, he upset all and sundry by submitting a transfer request. “It wasn’t a transfer request,” he replied. “It was a perceived transfer request.”

You can guess the follow-up question: what on earth is a perceived transfer request? “They took it to be an official request, when it wasn’t,” he explained, which sounded suspiciously like semantics to me; a player actively plotting to leave, without saying so formally or quite so explicitly.

Written transfer requests — the unequivocal, black-and-white means by which restless pros can manipulate a move — are less common than you might think. For one thing, submitting a demand in writing risks forfeiting future bonuses or loyalty payments. For two, they’re regarded as small-time. As one agent tells The Athletic’s Stu James: “You’re handing in a letter saying you want to leave. What the hell does that do?”

Stu wrote about the art of manufacturing a transfer in 2021 but he updated his piece when trouble brewed between Newcastle United and Alexander Isak (above), and it’s relevant again in light of the sorry deterioration of that relationship. The Swedish striker has no intention of making another appearance for the Tyneside club. He would sooner sign for Liverpool. But how does he force his way out the door if Newcastle aren’t minded to trade him?

This isn’t new ground, or even close. Cerys Jones went back through the Premier League archives to analyse other high-profile names — Harry Kane, Luis Suarez and others — who effectively went on strike, hoping to be sold. Some who stamp their feet get their way. Others don’t. Stu’s feature is a window into Newcastle’s reality.

Top Stories
The biggest issues facing youth sports? Greg Olsen has strong opinions
NBA 2025-26 schedule release: 40 games I’m looking forward to next season
The epicenter of stalking in sports? Why tennis stands apart
Never get an owner angry
Isak hasn’t done a bad job in employing the tactics suggested by different agents Stu talked to (all of whom spoke on condition of anonymity). Complain of minor injuries? Check. Refuse to travel on a pre-season tour? Check. Down tools, or cast doubt over your commitment to your existing employers? Check. Textbook stuff.

Here’s what those who know the drill had to say about facilitating a contentious exit from a club:

One agent warned: “What you must never do is get an owner angry. Once a billionaire says, ‘He’s not for sale’, you’re dead. You’re ain’t going nowhere because their credibility is on the line.”
A manager with Premier League experience talked about trying to drop a wantaway star down to work with the club’s under-23s: “Then you’ll have the club push back on you and say, ‘He’s an asset, he needs to be involved’. You end up having friction with the club. It’s an absolute nightmare.”
Another high-profile representative said, “Some agents try to force things through that are just ridiculous. And all that happens is that it causes a load of bad feeling, nobody wins. Try to find a solution for everybody.”
But by far the most revealing quote came from David Sullivan, the co-owner of West Ham United. Generally speaking, Sullivan said, coaches want disruptive players out of the building because they “create a terrible atmosphere”. A sulking asset is essentially a bad apple. And in the case of Isak, it might be that fact that grants him his wish.

‘I feel like they’re evil’: Pulisic and Weah bite back on criticism of ex-USMNT players. Again.
USMNT’s Tim Weah and Christian Pulisic
Christian Pulisic and Tim Weah celebrate against Germany in 2023 (Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
To say that current USMNT stars are at odds with certain retired U.S. internationals would be the understatement of the day. Tyler Adams tried to be diplomatic about criticism from Landon Donovan and others in an interview with The Athletic this week, but yesterday’s episode of the ‘Pulisic’ series on Paramount+ took the beef up a notch.

One thing to point out first: by any objective measure, the USMNT have done nothing to shield themselves from ex-pro scrutiny. The past couple of years have been miserable, and Christian Pulisic and Tim Weah (above) choosing to miss this summer’s Gold Cup wasn’t going to pass without comment. But blimey, they’re taking it all to heart. Here’s what was said on ‘Pulisic’:

Weah: “Those guys are chasing cheques. And for me, I just feel like they’re really evil. Because they’ve been players, and they know what it’s like when you’re getting bashed. Those are the same guys that’ll turn around and shake your hand, and try to be friendly with you at the end of the day.”
Pulisic: “The most annoying thing, and the biggest cop-out of all time, is when all pundits want to say, ‘They didn’t want it, they didn’t have the heart. Back in our day, we would fight and die on that field’. It’s frustrating.”
Pulisic’s father, Mark: “These guys want clicks. It’s social media, it’s, ‘Subscribe to my channel, listen to my podcasts’, or whatever.”
Quote three is a little ironic coming from someone talking in a docuseries, but here we are. The thing is, I don’t see the former USMNT corps backing down tamely, so where this goes from here is anybody’s guess. National unity with less than a year to a home World Cup? If only.

News Round-Up
A tasty spat has broken out between Birmingham City shareholder Tom Brady and the club’s former head coach, Wayne Rooney. Brady was filmed raising doubts about Rooney’s work ethic in a recent documentary. Rooney hit back on his new podcast, saying the comments were “very unfair” and that Brady didn’t “really understand football that well”.
Barcelona’s board are putting millions of their own money on the line in an effort to get Marcus Rashford and others registered with La Liga. Their salary-cap stress has reached crisis point, again.
The Daily Liverpool: they’re closing in on the signing of 18-year-old defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma in Italy. He’ll set them back £26m ($35.2m).
The Club World Cup was a nice little earner for the squad at Chelsea. After winning the tournament, their players will share bonuses worth more than £10m. But, bless them, a portion is to be donated to the family of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva.
Gimnastic de Tarragona, a Catalan club who play in Spain’s third division, have cancelled the signing of Jose Manuel Calderon…after the defender was caught on camera saying: “I sh** on all dead Catalans.” Calderon apologised, albeit too little too late.
An under-21s match involving Manchester United had to be abandoned after midfielder Sekou Kone suffered a bad head injury. The 19-year-old was taken to hospital but appears to be OK.
Keeping it together: Chevalier and PSG come back from 2-0 down to beat Spurs in Super Cup

TNT Sports
Well, colour us shocked. Paris Saint-Germain ostracise Gianluigi Donnarumma and the first thing the goalkeeper’s replacement, Lucas Chevalier, does is mark his debut in last night’s UEFA Super Cup match by throwing one in this goal, above. That’s football being football.

The evening got better for Chevalier, who saved a penalty in a shootout as PSG picked up their fourth trophy of 2025. They were on the ropes in normal time, trailing 2-0 to Tottenham Hotspur with five minutes to go, but something woke them from their slumber.

I’d caution against reading too much into Tottenham’s display because PSG were rusty, as if they were psychologically tearing themselves away from the beaches of Saint-Tropez. That said, for much of the game, there was decent structure to Spurs and their set pieces worked. It was only as they dropped deep in defence of their lead that PSG got a sniff. No early silverware for Thomas Frank, but green shoots all the same.

It didn’t stop Sheffield United sliding out of the Carabao Cup, but I wouldn’t have you missing Gustavo Hamer’s glorious 50-yard finish against Birmingham City last night. Nottingham Forest’s Murillo should sign him up for lessons.

ITV Sport
Around TAFC
On the eve of the Premier League season, I’ll point you towards a rundown of all the coverage you can expect from The Athletic. It’s here and it’s epic. I like the sound of the alternative league table.
There can’t have been many summers in which top-flight English teams threw more money at attacking signings, including Viktor Gyokeres and Florian Wirtz. Mark Carey and Thom Harris have taken a closer look at an expensive trend.
Gyokeres, in theory, should enhance Arsenal’s chances of winning the title. Amy Lawrence sat down for an exclusive chat with their manager, Mikel Arteta.
James Milner is a machine: 39 years old and still at it in the Premier League. This interview with him by Oli Kay is ace.
Fantasy Premier League: once more, the code to our TAFC league for any readers who wish to be part of it. Enter using 30j0f7. We’ve got a few more last-minute tips for you.
Most clicked in Wednesday’s TAFC: the PSG-Donnarumma rift.
And finally…

X / @sportsru
How we chuckled a few weeks back at the footballer in Brazil who re-enacted the Cristiano Ronaldo ‘Siu’ celebration routine and gave himself a gammy leg in the process.

But that self-inflicted wound looks fairly pedestrian when set aside the post-goal backflip attempted by Dynamo Barnaul’s Kirill Mogel in a Russian lower-league match at the weekend. To cut him some slack, the striker hadn’t scored for months but if the crunch was as nasty as it looked, he might not be scoring again for a good while either.

“The acrobatic trick didn’t work out for him,” lamented Dynamo Barnaul’s official website. I’ll say.

(Top photo: George Wood/Getty Images)

How players force a transfer, Pulisic and Weah hit back at ‘evil’ ex-USMNT stars

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - MAY 25: Alexander Isak of Newcastle United applauds the fans as he warms up prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Everton FC at St James' Park on May 25, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

By Phil Hay

Aug. 14, 2025

The Athletic FC ⚽ is The Athletic’s daily football (or soccer, if you prefer) newsletter. Sign up to receive it directly to your inbox.

Hello! Feigning injury, missing pre-season, downing tools. We’re covering the dark arts involved in convincing a club to sell you. Just don’t bother with an actual transfer request.

On the way:

How footballers force a move
Pulisic beef intensifies
Rooney fires back at Brady
A stone-cold 50-metre lob

Exit strategy: Isak wants to leave Newcastle… but how do players get their way?

Alexander Isak during pre-season training in July (Serena Taylor/Newcastle United via Getty Images)

I once asked a footballer (best left nameless) why, at one of his previous clubs, he upset all and sundry by submitting a transfer request. “It wasn’t a transfer request,” he replied. “It was a perceived transfer request.”

Never get an owner angry

Isak hasn’t done a bad job in employing the tactics suggested by different agents Stu talked to (all of whom spoke on condition of anonymity). Complain of minor injuries? Check. Refuse to travel on a pre-season tour? Check. Down tools, or cast doubt over your commitment to your existing employers? Check. Textbook stuff.

Here’s what those who know the drill had to say about facilitating a contentious exit from a club:

One agent warned: “What you must never do is get an owner angry. Once a billionaire says, ‘He’s not for sale’, you’re dead. You’re ain’t going nowhere because their credibility is on the line.”
A manager with Premier League experience talked about trying to drop a wantaway star down to work with the club’s under-23s: “Then you’ll have the club push back on you and say, ‘He’s an asset, he needs to be involved’. You end up having friction with the club. It’s an absolute nightmare.”
Another high-profile representative said, “Some agents try to force things through that are just ridiculous. And all that happens is that it causes a load of bad feeling, nobody wins. Try to find a solution for everybody.”

But by far the most revealing quote came from David Sullivan, the co-owner of West Ham United. Generally speaking, Sullivan said, coaches want disruptive players out of the building because they “create a terrible atmosphere”. A sulking asset is essentially a bad apple. And in the case of Isak, it might be that fact that grants him his wish.

‘I feel like they’re evil’: Pulisic and Weah bite back on criticism of ex-USMNT players. Again.

USMNT's Tim Weah and Christian Pulisic Christian Pulisic and Tim Weah celebrate against Germany in 2023 (Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

To say that current USMNT stars are at odds with certain retired U.S. internationals would be the understatement of the day. Tyler Adams tried to be diplomatic about criticism from Landon Donovan and others in an interview with The Athletic this week, but yesterday’s episode of the ‘Pulisic’ series on Paramount+ took the beef up a notch.

Weah: “Those guys are chasing cheques. And for me, I just feel like they’re really evil. Because they’ve been players, and they know what it’s like when you’re getting bashed. Those are the same guys that’ll turn around and shake your hand, and try to be friendly with you at the end of the day.”
Pulisic: “The most annoying thing, and the biggest cop-out of all time, is when all pundits want to say, ‘They didn’t want it, they didn’t have the heart. Back in our day, we would fight and die on that field’. It’s frustrating.”
Pulisic’s father, Mark: “These guys want clicks. It’s social media, it’s, ‘Subscribe to my channel, listen to my podcasts’, or whatever.”

Quote three is a little ironic coming from someone talking in a docuseries, but here we are. The thing is, I don’t see the former USMNT corps backing down tamely, so where this goes from here is anybody’s guess. National unity with less than a year to a home World Cup? If only.

News Round-Up

A tasty spat has broken out between Birmingham City shareholder Tom Brady and the club’s former head coach, Wayne Rooney. Brady was filmed raising doubts about Rooney’s work ethic in a recent documentary. Rooney hit back on his new podcast, saying the comments were “very unfair” and that Brady didn’t “really understand football that well”.
Barcelona’s board are putting millions of their own money on the line in an effort to get Marcus Rashford and others registered with La Liga. Their salary-cap stress has reached crisis point, again.
The Daily Liverpool: they’re closing in on the signing of 18-year-old defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma in Italy. He’ll set them back £26m ($35.2m).
The Club World Cup was a nice little earner for the squad at Chelsea. After winning the tournament, their players will share bonuses worth more than £10m. But, bless them, a portion is to be donated to the family of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva.
Gimnastic de Tarragona, a Catalan club who play in Spain’s third division, have cancelled the signing of Jose Manuel Calderon…after the defender was caught on camera saying: “I sh** on all dead Catalans.” Calderon apologised, albeit too little too late.
An under-21s match involving Manchester United had to be abandoned after midfielder Sekou Kone suffered a bad head injury. The 19-year-old was taken to hospital but appears to be OK.

Keeping it together: Chevalier and PSG come back from 2-0 down to beat Spurs in Super Cup

TNT Sports

Well, colour us shocked. Paris Saint-Germain ostracise Gianluigi Donnarumma and the first thing the goalkeeper’s replacement, Lucas Chevalier, does is mark his debut in last night’s UEFA Super Cup match by throwing one in this goal, above. That’s football being football.

It didn’t stop Sheffield United sliding out of the Carabao Cup, but I wouldn’t have you missing Gustavo Hamer’s glorious 50-yard finish against Birmingham City last night. Nottingham Forest’s Murillo should sign him up for lessons.

ITV Sport

Around TAFC

On the eve of the Premier League season, I’ll point you towards a rundown of all the coverage you can expect from The Athletic. It’s here and it’s epic. I like the sound of the alternative league table.
There can’t have been many summers in which top-flight English teams threw more money at attacking signings, including Viktor Gyokeres and Florian Wirtz. Mark Carey and Thom Harris have taken a closer look at an expensive trend.
Gyokeres, in theory, should enhance Arsenal’s chances of winning the title. Amy Lawrence sat down for an exclusive chat with their manager, Mikel Arteta.
James Milner is a machine: 39 years old and still at it in the Premier League. This interview with him by Oli Kay is ace.
Fantasy Premier League: once more, the code to our TAFC league for any readers who wish to be part of it. Enter using 30j0f7. We’ve got a few more last-minute tips for you.
Most clicked in Wednesday’s TAFC: the PSG-Donnarumma rift.

And finally…

X / @sportsru

How we chuckled a few weeks back at the footballer in Brazil who re-enacted the Cristiano Ronaldo ‘Siu’ celebration routine and gave himself a gammy leg in the process.

“The acrobatic trick didn’t work out for him,” lamented Dynamo Barnaul’s official website. I’ll say.

(Top photo: George Wood/Getty Images)

What’s new in the Premier League in 2025-26?

BRENTFORD, ENGLAND - AUGUST 08: A detailed view of the new Puma Premier League match ball during the pre-season friendly match between Brentford and Borussia Moenchengladbach at Gtech Community Stadium on August 08, 2025 in Brentford, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

By Cerys Jones

Aug. 15, 2025 12:05 am EDT

Have you missed football?

Probably not, because it never really stopped. But if you were struggling, fear not, because the Premier League is back.

Three hundred and eighty matches, 282 days, 20 teams, endless grumbling about VARs, and almost certainly a new officiating debate that none of us have dreamed up yet are waiting just around the corner, all starting when reigning champions Liverpool host Bournemouth on Friday at 8pm BST/3pm EST.Leeds United, Burnley, and Sunderland are up from the Championship, there are new faces on the pitch and in the technical areas, and, as always, there are a host of minor tweaks, too.his, then, is what you need to know for the new Premier League season.

New laws

The major change (and, whisper it, possibly even a popular one) is the introduction of the eight-second rule, which will already be familiar to those who watched the Club World Cup.If goalkeepers are in control of the ball with their arms/hands for more than eight seconds, they will concede a corner from the side closest to them. This replaces the old law, which was rarely enforced, where goalkeepers could concede an indirect free kick if they held onto the ball for more than six seconds.When the rule was announced by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), it said only four corners were awarded in its trial of the rule, which consisted of hundreds of matches.It is up to the referee to decide when the ’keeper has control of the ball and start the countdown. They will visually count down the last five seconds so it is clear to the goalkeeper what is happening.

There will be no disciplinary action unless the ’keeper repeatedly commits the offence, and they are not penalised if they are starting to or about to release the ball as the countdown ends.

The referee will also not start counting if the goalkeeper is being obstructed by an opposition attacker — if, during the countdown, an opponent pressures the ’keeper, they will concede an indirect free kick.

Teams will be awarded a corner if the opposition goalkeeper holds onto the ball for too long (Julian Finney/Getty Images)

There are also new ‘only the captain’ guidelines on approaching the referee. ‘Normal interactions’ between players and the referee will be allowed, but the guidance is aimed at preventing players from surrounding or mobbing them after big incidents or decisions. Team captains are responsible for helping direct team-mates away from the referee, and anyone who approaches without permission may be booked.The referee may invite the captain over to explain a decision. The hope is that players will know there is an avenue for them to receive engagement with the referee through their captain, but also know they can expect a booking if they approach when they should not.If the captain is the goalkeeper, they can nominate an outfield team-mate before the coin toss to approach the referee instead.Finally, the rules have been tweaked for accidental ‘double-touch’ penalties. If a player scores a penalty kick but accidentally touches the ball twice, they will be allowed to retake it. If they miss, they do not get another chance.

Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez was involved in a double-touch penalty in last season’s Champions League (Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

New refereeing tech: semi-automated offside technology (SAOT), announcements, and ‘Ref Cam’

Some might recall that SAOT was on our list last year and was expected to be introduced “from after one of the autumn international breaks”. It actually ended up being introduced to the Premier League in April, so we deem it new enough to make the list again, as this will be the first full season where it is used.

The technology aims to reduce the length of VAR checks by automating parts of the decision-making process. The technology won’t be used for clear offside decisions. However, the old method of ‘drawing lines’ might still be needed in some cases if the technology fails, or if players are blocking the view of the ball or the system’s cameras.

(Steve Bardens/Getty Images)

This happened in March, on the first weekend when the technology was trialled in English football. During Wolverhampton Wanderers’ FA Cup game against Bournemouth, a congested penalty area meant officials could not rely on the technology and there was an eight-minute delay.There will also be more information for fans in stadiums this season. Graphics showing the results of SAOT decisions will be shown on giant screens, and after a trial in the Carabao Cup, referees will make an announcement in the stadium explaining the outcome of all VAR reviews (except for factual offside or onside calls).The league also plans to trial referee-worn cameras, as seen at the Club World Cup. The trial is expected to begin this month and last for around six weeks.The footage can be used as an additional replay angle in broadcasts, allowing fans to see the game from the referee’s perspective. However, no confrontational or controversial moments should be shown.

A new, bigger, UK broadcast deal

More Premier League games will be shown on TV than ever before as the league’s new broadcast deal, agreed back in December 2023 and worth £6.7bn, takes effect.

All games outside the Saturday 3pm blackout will now be broadcast live in the UK. Previously, some Sunday 2pm games were not available to watch live in the UK if they had been moved to that slot due to teams competing in European competition in midweek.

At least 215 matches will be on Sky Sports, and TNT will show 52. Amazon Prime no longer shows any.

Sky will show games on a Saturday at 5:30pm, on a Sunday at 2pm and 4:30pm, Monday and Friday evening games, and the first three rounds of midweek fixtures. Sky’s coverage also includes a new ‘Multiview’ format, which will allow customers to watch up to four games at once on Sunday afternoons.

TNT will show the early kick-off games at 12:30pm on Saturdays, as well as the last two rounds of midweek fixtures.

BBC Sport has highlights rights for all 380 matches.

In the U.S., NBC will show all 380 games, with just under half of them streamed exclusively on Peacock. The remainder will be shown on a main NBC channel or USA Network.

(Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

New broadcast access — including in-game and half-time interviews

Clubs are now obligated to grant more access to broadcasters, including the potential for access to dressing rooms or interviews at half-time or during the match.

Each club will only have to agree to these extra obligations a limited number of times.

At least twice per season, each club must do one of the following:

Allow filming for at least 90 seconds in their dressing room. This could be between the end of the warm-up and start of the match, at half-time, or immediately after the match once the players are back in the dressing room. The club can request that this footage is without audio unless they approve it.
Make a player or manager available for an interview at half-time. This should be no more than three questions, all of which should be positive and related to the match. The interview must be timed so it will not delay the restart.
Make a substituted player, or the manager, available for an interview during the match. This must be by no later than the 85th minute and the interview should be no more than two questions, both of which must be related to the match and positive.

The broadcaster will request this extra access before the fixture and say which of the three options it would prefer, but the club chooses which it plans to provide.

If a club is losing when they were supposed to provide this extra access, they can choose to do it at another match instead.

(Stu Forster/Getty Images)

A new ball — and not a Nike one

Lastly, the official ball has changed. Nike’s 25-year partnership has come to an end and Puma will now supply the match ball.

The German company is already the ball supplier for Serie A, La Liga, the English Football League, and the Carabao Cup. It was in the latter competition that Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta referred to the match ball when dissecting his side’s 2-0 loss to eventual tournament winners Newcastle United in the first leg of their semi-final.

“(The Carabao Cup ball) is very different to a Premier League ball, and you have to adapt to that because it flies differently. When you touch it, the grip is also very different, so you adapt to that.”

(Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Check back for Arteta’s review of Puma’s Orbita Ultimate ball when the season gets underway…

=====RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ===

Got some Good BarBQ for your Summer Plans ? Try out the Best BarBQ in Town right across the street (131st) from Northview Church on the corner of Hazelldell & 131st. RackZ BBQ

Save 20% on your order

(mention the ole ballcoach)

======================RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ======================

Wrexham’s revamped home: A (longer) £1.7m pitch, heated dugout seats and goal-line technology

By Richard Sutcliffe

Aug. 15, 2025 12:22 am EDT

With Nathan Broadhead’s club record £7.5million transfer taking Wrexham’s tally of signings to nine, and more additions expected, Phil Parkinson has had a busy summer.

But he’s far from alone at Wrexham in experiencing a hectic close season. Aidan Miller, the club’s strategy and projects director, has overseen a revamp of the SToK Cae Ras designed to nudge the world’s oldest international football ground into the modern era.A new £1.7million ($2.3m) pitch, complete with undersoil heating and new drainage, has been the marquee addition. No one at Wrexham’s Carabao Cup first-round victory over Hull City could have failed to notice just how lush the new surface looked in the August sunshine. Nor how well it played.

The seeding and stitching operation to make Wrexham’s surface compliant with European football’s regulations was only part of an overhaul that included moving both dugouts to the opposite side of the pitch, building a new TV gantry, reconfiguring stands to squeeze in extra seats, erecting two new giant TV screens at one end and taking down the old scoreboard at the other.

Wrexham’s new pitch, as seen before their first home match of the season (Robbie Jay Barratt/Getty Images)

There was also the dismantling of a temporary stand, plus the all-important deactivation of a live electric cable underneath the old Kop, as preparatory work continues ahead of the new 7,500-capacity stand starting to go up, on schedule, in the autumn.To squeeze all this into exactly 100 days between Wrexham staging a promotion party after last season had ended and Tuesday’s cup tie against Hull is impressive. Even more so when you consider the club did not know until beating Charlton Athletic on April 26 when the 20224-25 season would finish — or when their 2025-26 league campaign would start.“We had to do a lot of planning,” explains Miller, who joined Wrexham early in 2025 after almost seven years at Everton, primarily working on the club’s new Hill Dickinson Stadium. “The key thing with the pitch is it would take six weeks to reconstruct it. But two months to grow it.

“If we’d finished third and then not gone up, the window would have been tight. In the end, the opposite happened, where we had an extra three weeks (due to Wrexham clinching automatic promotion). But we’d had to plan for the worst and hope we got the best.”In recent years, Wrexham’s historic home has struggled to keep pace with Parkinson’s upwardly mobile team. Facilities have been improved, such as the installation of new floodlights prior to returning to the EFL in 2023. But, really, it won’t be until the new Kop stand is finished that The Racecourse Ground will truly shine.The changes — which include the installation of goal-line technology — have brought a new sheen to a venue that first hosted a Wales international in 1877.

The newly-installed cameras (Richard Sutcliffe/The Athletic)

“We’ve always said with the sporting side being so successful, then the standards get raised in terms of what is expected,” says Rob Faulkner, Wrexham’s chief business and communications officer, when giving The Athletic a tour of all the changes, including upgraded concourses and hospitality areas.

“A lot of things will go into the new Kop, particularly for the fans and players with top-class facilities, new dressing rooms and so on. But until then, we are trying to catch up as much as we can.”

At one stage this summer, six different projects were being worked on inside The Racecourse at the same time by a small army of workers.

Contractors Cleveland Land Services (CLS) worked around the clock to get the pitch ready, with seeding taking place on June 1 and the stitching in July.

The dugouts were moved across the pitch to the Mold Road Stand, where coaching staff and substitutes will benefit from heated seats in what can be a cold part of the stadium. This has allowed the old dugouts to be converted into fan seating.

Two hundred and 24 seats have been added to the Tech End behind the goal, giving a full extra row at the front of the upper section. The old electronic scoreboard at that end has also gone, so the view of those who stand on the back row will no longer be impeded.

The pitch has been extended in length to allow for rugby matches to be played in the future and also shifted a couple of metres towards the Kop. This meant the new two-level TV gantry had to be situated slightly to the side of its predecessor, to ensure the main camera position remains on halfway.

The new two-level TV gantry (Richard Sutcliffe/The Athletic)

A second gantry has also been built on the opposite side of the ground on halfway, meaning Wrexham now comply with UEFA and Championship (and Premier League) standards regarding a reverse angle camera position.

“It’s a bit like building a house, in that the plumber has to come in before the joiner,” says Miller. “As part of the work, we’ve had all the steelwork in the Wrexham Lager Stand painted. This involved someone abseiling, which meant two blocks of seats had to be taken out each time.

“It was the same with taking down the temporary stand. We removed one section (containing 558 seats) after the Stockport game last season (on March 22) to help with the pitch project.

“The fan zone also went at the same time, allowing us to create a pathway for the contractors to bring in mountains of gravel, soil and so on. We wanted these onsite, meaning we could start straight away the moment we got the green light.”

This also explains why the remaining blocks of the temporary stand were not taken down until late June, several weeks after the season had ended.

Miller adds: “We had work to do around the outside of the site, tidying up the drainage, laying tarmac and a few other things. Only then did we have the space to take down the temporary stand. Coordination was key, in terms of what is the priority — which for us was getting the pitch work going.”

The summer revamp is only the start. A new Kop stand will soon start to go up, with the intention to be ready for The Racecourse hosting the UEFA Under-19 Championship in June 2026.

Barriers obscure the building of the new Kop stand (Robbie Jay Barratt/Getty Images)

It will be the key building block of a stadium masterplan drawn up by Populous, the same firm that designed Arsenal and Tottenham’s new homes, as well as Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, Wembley and The Sphere in Las Vegas.

The initial plan was to house 5,500 fans with the design, then allow another 2,000 to be added. However, a new planning application went in last month for a 7,500 capacity structure and a decision will be made soon by Wrexham Borough Council.

A new electricity substation on University land adjacent to The Racecourse’s main entrance on Crispin Lane has also been constructed.

This will provide power to the three blocks of student flats that sit behind the main stand, replacing the previous substation located towards the back of The Turf pub on the footprint of where the new Kop will stand. As part of this switch, a live power cable running underneath the area was deactivated.

“Until that was done, you couldn’t even start digging,” says Miller. “So, from a big ticket perspective, that’s probably the biggest thing we did this summer.”

As Miller says proudly, this now feels like “a Championship ground”.

(Top photo: Wrexham AFC)

6/10/25 Special US Men’s Version, USMNT vs Switzerland tonight 8 pm. on TNT, World Club Cup starts Sat, Portugal wins Nations League Final over Spain, Indy 11 host Carmel GK Sat, Carmel FC supplemental tryouts

June 10, 2025June 10, 2025 gatorbest football, indy-11, indy-ll, mls, pulisic, soccer, us-men-soccer-team, us-soccer, usmnt, world-club-cup

US Loses to Turkiye 2-1 – Plays Top 20 Switzerland Tonight 8 pm on TNT

So the US got off to a great start with a Goal by Jack McGlynn just a few minutes in but some horrific play by DM Johnny Cardosa led to 2 straight goals in about 2 minutes as Turkiye took the lead and held on for the 2-1 win. (highlights) I thought the changes by Poch to sub out Johnny with Adams & CB Miles Robinson with Mark McKensie – changed the flow of the game at the half as the US dominated play in the 2nd outshooting Turkiye & out possessing them for the game.

Tonight the US takes on Switzerland – another top 20 world team that should give us a real run. I will be interested to see how seriously Poch takes this? Does he give new guys a chance – or try to build on the good things that players did last game. I would like to see Richards & McKenzie back in the middle tonight to give them a chance to grow together. It sounds like Adams is out – does Johnny get another chance to show he can play like he does in Spain rather than the pathetic display he showed Sat or every other time he puts on the Red, White & Blue? Luca De La Tore was a bright spot as one of the few players who really took us forward – into the attack. I also thought Malik Tillman played better than his average play with our US starters. Unfortunately I think Poch is an clueless – and he’ll continue to experiment with his new found MLS players and get beat again 2-1. Hopefully I am wrong.

Shane’s Starters tonight
White
Aaronson/Tillman//McGlynn
Cardoso //De La Tore
Tolkin/McKensie/Richards/Harriel
Turner
Diving into the controversary regarding our US starters not showing up this summer. Let me start with I am hugely disappointed our starters are not here for these European friendlies. I really thought Poch should have asked everyone to come in for these friendlies – along with the MLS Gold Cup team and we should have tried to put our best 11 on the field for 10 days and these 2 games. I have this feeling if it was set up correctly – negotiated properly with the clubs (something Poch does not do) that a lot of the guys might have showed up for a 10 day stint. Asking them all to stay for the 5 week Gold Cup is ridiculous – even this summer. Sorry Landon Donovan since you NEVER pushed yourself to play at the highest level – EUROPE for an entire season – you have NO leg to stand on calling guys out. Especially since you took off 18 months for mental issues before your last chance at a World Cup. None of those old US players played the # of games or to the level of competition that the current US players are playing. We had more players in Champions League last year than the previous 10 years combined from our old regime. It simply does not compare to the load that our current European players playing at top clubs have. If US soccer had a clue they would have brought them in for the 11 days — like Portugal and Spain did in the Nations League final. Most of our guys were here for Nations League in the Spring. The bottom line is the Gold Cup has in the last 15 years been a warm-up B team roster for us – unless it meant Confed Cup placement. Under Berhalter/BJ we had grown beyond all of Concacaf included Mexico and Canada. Not so under Poch obviously. So what’s the real issue here? Hard to say – but calling Christian Pulisic – who is the Best American Soccer Field Player to have ever lived out for missing 1 Gold Cup is short sighted in my opinion.
CBS/Golazo Discussion on Pulisic State of the Union Discussion on this Tyler Adams is the US Captain

USMNT GOLD CUP DETAILED ROSTER BY POSITION (club/country; caps/goals):

GOALKEEPERS (4): Chris Brady (Chicago Fire; 0/0), Matt Freese (New York City FC; 0/0), Matt Turner (Crystal Palace/ENG; 51/0)
DEFENDERS (9): Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew; 3/0), Alex Freeman (Orlando City; 0/0), Nathan Harriel (Philadelphia Union; 0/0), Mark McKenzie (Toulouse/FRA; 19/0), Tim Ream (Charlotte FC; 68/1), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace/ENG; 24/1), Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati; 32/3), John Tolkin (Holstein Kiel/GER; 4/0), Walker Zimmerman (Nashville SC; 43/3)
MIDFIELDERS (9): Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United/ENG; 47/8); Tyler Adams (Bournemouth/ENG; 44/2), Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps/CAN; 0/0), Johnny Cardoso (Real Betis/ESP; 18/0), Luca de la Torre (San Diego FC; 24/1), Diego Luna (Real Salt Lake; 4/0), Jack McGlynn (Houston Dynamo; 4/1), Quinn Sullivan (Philadelphia Union; 0/0); Malik Tillman (PSV Eindhoven/NED; 17/0)
FORWARDS (5): Paxten Aaronson (FC Utrecht/NED; 1/0), Patrick Agyemang (Charlotte FC; 4/3), Damion Downs (FC Köln/GER; 0/0), Brian White (Vancouver Whitecaps/CAN; 4/1), Haji Wright (Coventry City/ENG; 15/4)

Euro Nations League Final Portugal beats Spain 2-2 (5-3) on PKs

Wow – the Nations League Final between Spain and Portugal was simply spectacular the 2-2 thriller in Bayern Munich was magisterial as 40 YO Christiana Ronaldo scored the tying goal to put Portugal into Extra Time before coming off. (highlights). Ronaldo & Portugal lift Trophy

Indy 11 hosts Pittsburgh Riverhounds and former Carmel High, CDC GK Eric Dick this Sat 7 pm
Indy 11 Summer of Soccer is a cool promo going on with tickets and a chance to win a free trip to the Indy 11 Charleston game. Indy 11 will host the Pittsburgh Riverhounds with former Carmel High, and CDC player Eric Dick in Goal. The 2024 USL GK of the year has Pittsburgh in 6th place overall 3 notches above Indy 11. Zeke invites you to enjoy a tail-wagging good time as we welcome our furry fans to the stadium. Enjoy the match with your pup by your side, the perfect outing for dog lovers and Indy Eleven fans! Pups at the Pitch Tickets are just $29 for you and your dog – Tickets

Carmel FC Supplemental Tryouts

Carmel FC are looking for High School quality Players for its 2010 Gold Boys (mid 1st division team) and 2009 Gold Boys (Great Lakes) reach out to me shanebestsoccer@gmail.com if interested.

USA MEN

What to watch for USMNT June 2025 Friendlies: USA vs. Switzerland – no time to be neutral

USA vs. Turkey player ratings: Score, grades, stats from USMNT pre-Gold Cup
USMNT 1–2 Turkiye: Player Ratings As USMNT Suffers Third Consecutive Defeat Under Mauricio Pochettino
Turkey loss gives Poch, USMNT more questions than answers
Soccer Wire – Player Ratings
Mistakes cost USMNT in 2-1 loss to Türkiye
Source: USMNT’s Turner to join Lyon in $9M move
USMNT depth chart: Top 15 at each position entering Gold Cup

Drama Around The US Camp
Pulisic likes dad’s response to Donovan criticism
The US men’s national team has more of the last thing it needs: sports dad drama

hum that American Coach is doing pretty well at Canada eh? Oh he added Michael Bradley to his staff

TV GAME SCHEDULE

GC=Gold Cup, WCC = World Club Cup in US
Tues, June 10

2:45 pm Fox Sport2 Netherlands vs Malta
8 pm TNT, Peacock US Men vs Switzerland
Fri, June 13
10:30 pm FS1 Portland Timbers vs San Jose MLS

June 13 – 29 GOLD CUP MEN
June 13

10:30 pm Fox Sports1 Portland Timbers vs San Jose Earthquakes

June 14
4:30 pm Fox St. Louis City vs LA Galaxy
7 pm TV 8 & CBS Golaso Indy 11 vs Pittsburg Riverhounds (Carmel GK Eric Dick returns)
7:30 pm Apple Free Columbus vs Vancouver
8 pm Univision Al Ahly vs Inter Miami Club World Cup
9:30 pm Apple Free Colorado vs Orlando MLS
10:!5 pm FS1 Mexico vs Dominican Republic GC

Sun, June 15

12 noon DANZ Bayern Munich vs Auckland City WCC
3 pm Univision PSG Vs Atletico Madrid WCC
6 pm Fox, Uni US Men vs Trinidad Gold Cup
8:15 pm FS1 Haiti vs Saudi Arabia GC
10 pm Danz Botafogo vs Seattle Sounders WCC
11 pm FS1 Costa Rica vs Suriname GC
Mon, June 16
3 pm unimas, TUDN Chelsea vs LAFC
6 pm Danz Boca Juniors vs Benefica WCC
7 pm FS1 Panama vs Guadeloupe GC
9 pm FS1 Jamaica vs Guatemala

Tues , June 17
12 noon TNT Fluminese vs Dortmund WCC
3 pm Danz River Plate vs Urawa Reds WCC
8:15 pm FS1 Curacao vs El Salvador GC
9 pm Danz Inter Milan vs Monterrey WCC
10:30 pm FS1 Canada vs Honduras GC

Wed, June 18

12 noon DANZ Man City vs Wydad Casablanca WCC
3 pm unimas Real Madrid vs Al Hilal WCC
6 pm Danz Pachuca cs Salzburg WCC
7 pm FS1 Costa Rica vs Dom Republic GC
9 pm dazn Al Ain vs Juventus (Mckinney, Weah) WCC
10 pm FS1 Mexico vs Suriname

Thur, June 19

12 noon Dazn Palmeiras vs Al Ahly WCC
3 pm Dazn Inter Miami vs Porto WCC
6 pm Dazn Seattle Sounders vs Atletico Madrid WCC
6:45 pm FS1 T&T vs Haiti GC
9 pm Dazn PSG Vs Botafogo WCC
9:15 pm FS1 US Men vs Saudi Arabia Gold Cup

Fri, June 20
2 pm TNT Flamengo vs Chelsea WCC
6 pm DANZ LAFC vs ES Tunis WCC
7:45 pm FS1 Jamaica vs Guadeloupe GC
9 pm TBS Bayern Munich vs Boca Juniors WCC
10 pm FS1 Guatemala vs Panama GC

Sat, June 21

7 pm TV8, Golazo Indy 11 vs Las Vegas Lights FC
7 pm FS1 Curacao vs Canada GC
9 pm TBS River Plate vs Monterrey WC
10 pm FS1 Honduras vs El Salvador GC

Sun, June 22

12 noon Danz Juventus vs Wydad Casablanca WCC
3 pm univision Real Madrid vs Pachuca WCC
7 pm Fox US Men vs Haiti Gold Cup
7 pm FS1 Saudi Arabia vs T&T GC
9 pm TNT Man City vs Al Ain WCC
10 pm FS1 Mexico vs Costa Rica GC

Mon, June 23
9 pm TBS Inter Miami (Messi) vs Palmeiras

Thur, June 26

TBS, Peacock US Women vs Ireland

Sun, June 29^th

TNT, Peacock US Women vs Ireland in Cincy

World Club Cup

2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Group G Preview
American fans are hoping Weah and McKennie can create some magic in this tournament.
2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Group F Preview
Gio Reyna hopes to rediscover his form during the group stage.

2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Group B Preview
Seattle Sounders take on a monster of a group at the Club World Cup.
2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Group A Preview
Messi and friends take on a tough group.
Mamelodi Sundowns’ Club World Cup goal: ‘We want to inspire people’

Nations League Finals – Portugal Prevails

Portugal’s impressive Nations League win over Spain outshines Ronaldo vs. Yamal

=====RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ===

Looking for some solid backporch BarBQ this summer? Getting Ready for a July 4th Party or summer cookout? Try out the Best BarBQ in Town right across the street (131st) from Northview Church on the corner of Hazelldell & 131st. RackZ BBQ

Save 20% on your order

(mention the ole ballcoach)

=======RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20%===
Is Mauricio Pochettino’s style too slow for the USMNT?

Ryan O’HanlonJun 10, 2025, 08:14 AM ET

If anything will stick from the USMNT’s mostly unmemorable 2-1 loss to Turkey last week, it’ll be either Jack McGlynn‘s first goal with the team, or the unfortunate moment when Johnny Cardoso flicked the ball into Arda Güler‘s shin and into his team’s own goal.

But the most illustrative moment from the exhibition match happened a few seconds before the ball was trickling past goalkeeper Matt Freese and across the goal line.

Advertising

Alex Freeman had just won the ball from Juventus‘ Kenan Yildiz right outside the USMNT’s penalty area. He shifted the ball over to Cardoso, who had the opportunity to play a quick, long, forward pass into tons of space on the left side of the field. Turkey had just lost possession, so it hadn’t yet shifted into its defensive shape. Instead, Cardoso hesitated and then played a safe pass to Chris Richards. As this happened, U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino threw his hands into the air, jumped up, spun around and yelled something toward the bench. A couple of seconds later, Freese was scooping the ball out of his net.While the goal itself was a freak play — somewhat bad luck that the ball was deflected in the first place, entirely bad luck that it deflected in such a way to then spin into the side netting — the entire possession was a microcosm of the team’s biggest problem under Pochettino: It plays too slow. While most of the modern USMNT era has been characterized by constant, hectic overactivity, the past couple of months have flipped back too far in the other direction.

Pochettino knows this; he addressed the play postmatch, reacting in the moment, and he made similar comments after the 1-0 loss to Panama in the Nations League semifinals. But if the team is going to make a run at the World Cup next summer, he’s going to have to find a way to get his players to, well, run.

Why Pochettino’s USMNT is the slowest on record

Pochettino has managed only nine U.S. games so far, and the general rule in the club soccer world is that we should wait 10 games before drawing any conclusions. But only three of those games were competitive, while a fourth, the third-place Nations League match, was what we’ll call “partially competitive.” Throw in the fact that the rosters and lineups have been significantly different across almost every international break, and it’s still way too early to say anything remotely definitive.he biggest difference between Pochettino’s tenure and the Gregg Berhalter era that preceded it, though, seems to be the structure in possession. The latter had somewhat rigid positional guidelines for where everyone should be, while the former has given the players license to solve defensive problems on their own.

“The way we press [under Pochettino] is a lot more aggressive, especially from goal kicks,” midfielder Luca de la Torre told ESPN after the Turkey match. “There’s the intention to play in the half of the other team. And there’s probably more freedom with Pochettino in terms of the positioning of the players to find the solutions in open play.”Midfielder Malik Tillman echoed De la Torre’s final point. “He gives us offensive players a lot of freedom to move around the pitch to find the right spaces,” the PSV attacker said. “With Gregg, there was a lot more focus on being in the same spaces.”Again, it’s still way too early to say which approach is more effective, or if one is even more effective than the other. And while strict positional guidelines provide built-in fundamentals that the team can play within right away, the more relational style should theoretically take more time to develop since the players need to understand each other’s inherent tendencies. The free-flowing approach could improve with time — or it could be impossible to establish due to the ever-changing personnel and limited game time on offer in the international game. Perhaps, too, this is why the team has struggled to move the ball at speed so far under Pochettino. It’s hard to make decisions when you’re not sure where your teammates are going to be. Stats Perform has full data for USMNT matches going back to 2010. And among the managers who have been in charge for at least five games, Pochettino’s team ranks last for:

– The speed it moves the ball upfield: 1.03 meters per second
– The number of possessions it has per match: 82.1

The former is pretty straightforward — literally, how quickly do you move the ball toward the opposition goal? The latter represents, roughly, how much chaos you want your matches to have. For example: Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool played high possession games where the ball was constantly changing hands, while Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City rank last in the Premier League for possessions per game almost every season. For comparison: Berhalter’s teams moved at 1.34 meters per second and averaged 87.8 possessions per game. This isn’t to say that the slower approach can’t work; clearly, it can. Pep’s City won everything while playing slower than everyone else, while Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal play very slowly, and they’ve finished second in the Premier League for three consecutive seasons. In general, European soccer has become more methodical and less hectic with each passing season. At the same time, the three best teams in the world right now — PSG, Liverpool and Barcelona — all tend to play faster and embrace more chaos than is popular at the highest levels of the game. And most of the USMNT’s best players are better off playing that way, too.

Why the USMNT player pool wants to run

When it works, the slower approach keeps the ball away from your opponents, prevents the kind of odd-number counterattacks that Hansi Flick’s Barcelona frequently face, and creates a low volume of high-quality chances.Defensively, the team has been totally fine under Pochettino. The loss against Panama had nothing to do with a dysfunctional defense. The USMNT conceded three total shots for 0.1 expected goals — if you could guarantee that the Americans would do that at every game at the World Cup next summer, then I’d tell you to go and bet on them to win the tournament right now.No, the problem against Panama — and more broadly — was that the USMNT created a low volume of low-quality chances. If you’re not going to take more risks and attempt more shots, then you have to be able to generate better shots with the few shots you do take. In Pochettino’s nine matches, though, the U.S. has attempted 10.4 shots per game — fewer than in any managerial tenure other than Dave Sarachan’s lame-duck interim stint between Jurgen Klinsmann and Gregg Berhalter. But they’ve also generated only five total shots worth at least a third of an expected goal. For comparison, Berhalter’s teams averaged 1.6 per game.

These are all of the 94 shots attempted under Pochettino, sized by the expected-goal value of the attempt:

Ultimately, the slower approach just doesn’t really seem to fit many of the USMNT’s best players. In attack, Folarin Balogun had his breakout season while playing in a transition-heavy approach under Will Still at Reims. Both Christian Pulisic and Timothy Weah are at their best when they’re able to run at unsettled defenses. And at PSV, both Ricardo Pepi and Malik Tillman have been successful for Peter Bosz and his wide-open tactics. In midfield, all of Tyler Adams‘ best seasons have come for the embracers of chaos at Bournemouth, Leeds and RB Leipzig. Weston McKennie continues to flourish despite the relatively conservative tactics at Juventus, but I think a lot of that is because his managers all realize they need to find a way to embrace the risks he takes off the ball. And at this point in his career, Yunus Musah‘s most valuable skill is his ability to break through pressure and create transition moments for his team. Even at the back, Antonee Robinson is one of the most athletic fullbacks in the open field … in the entire world. Chris Richards plays for a former Red Bull manager in Oliver Glasner at Crystal Palace. Sergiño Dest is probably the only first-choice player who seems totally comfortable in this possession-dominant, patient approach — and he’s still yet to play a game for Pochettino.

Now, there is a potential cheat code — set pieces — here. Without them, Arsenal would be a top-four challenger and a Champions League also-ran rather than a title challenger and a European semifinalist. If you can methodically create chances from set pieces, then you can afford to play a low-risk, slower style. Plus, if you score the opening goal from a set piece, then the defense has to soften up, and that makes it easier to attack. Although the U.S. hired famed set piece coach Gianni Vio, we still haven’t seen any of this yet. For all the possession the USMNT has had under Pochettino — 60.4%, more than under any other manager — it has attempted just 1.6 set piece shots per game, the fewest under any manager.

So, through the first nine games of the Pochettino era, we seem to have a coach who says he wants his team to play faster and a group of players who thrive at a higher tempo. Yet, somehow, they’ve struggled to ever get out of first gear. Perhaps Poch’s public frustrations don’t match with what he’s telling his team to do. Maybe these players need stricter positional guidelines. Or it could just be some early-tenure growing pains.The broader challenge for this summer, with the limited roster at the Gold Cup, and next summer at the World Cup, is for the USMNT to find a way to start consistently generating higher-quality chances on goal. And barring some development on the set piece front, the way to get there is to find an answer to what seems like a simple question: How do you get all of your runners to start running again?

Turkey loss gives Poch, USMNT more questions than answers

Jeff Carlisle Cesar Hernandez ESPN Jun 7, 2025, 07:41 PM ET

EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — The U.S. men’s national team, with a squad that is far from full strength, kicked off its Gold Cup preparation with a 2-1 loss to Turkey during a friendly at Pratt & Whitney Stadium on Saturday.Initially up 1-0 thanks to a first-minute goal from Jack McGlynn, the U.S. then lost its lead with a rapid set of goals from Arda Güler and Kerem Aktürkoglu in the 24th and 27th minutes, respectively.Next up for the USMNT in its final Gold Cup preparation tuneup is a match against Switzerland in Nashville, Tennessee, on Tuesday. — Cesar Hernandez

Race for No. 9 place remains wide-open

Patrick Agyemang was hoping for a special kind of homecoming, given that he was born and raised in East Hartford, the same city as Saturday’s venue. It wasn’t to be, even as he was given the plumb assignment of the starting striker role.Agyemang used his size to good effect at times, and in terms of physicality, gave as good as he got from Turkey’s backline. But too often his touch was lacking, especially on those occasions when Diego Luna played passes into Agyemang’s feet. Agyemang wasn’t goal dangerous, recording one shot on target in the 52nd minute that didn’t force a difficult save.The performance left Pochettino still looking for a solution at the No. 9 position.Haji Wright got on the field for 25 minutes but was deployed out wide as opposed to a more central role. He rarely was involved save for one late run when he dribbled straight into the feet of his opponent.Agyemang was subbed out in the 75th minute for Brian White, but the Vancouver Whitecaps striker barely got a sniff of the ball, recording just seven touchesWhat Pochettino does against Switzerland in three days remains uncertain, although it seems worth giving FC Cologne forward Damion Downs a shot, or shifting Wright into the middle. — Jeff Carlisle

Cardoso still misfiring for the U.S.

Johnny Cardoso remains a hot commodity in the transfer market following a solid season with Real Betis, with Atlético Madrid expected to secure his signature. The New Jersey-born, Brazilian-raised midfielder has rarely replicated his club form when donning a U.S. shirt, though.

Saturday proved to be more of the same. With the U.S. leading 1-0 and Cardoso in complete control of the ball, he attempted to pass out of his own box, only for the delivery to ricochet off of Güler and into the U.S. net. It’s the kind of play one wouldn’t expect from a Sunday league player, let alone one of LaLiga‘s more highly regarded performers.

The play shook the Americans’ confidence, and they conceded a second three minutes later.

It wasn’t the first time Cardoso has disappointed. In a friendly against Colombia prior to last year’s Copa América, Cardoso was lackadaisical in coming to the ball, allowing the Cafeteros to counter and score their fifth and final goal. Against Turkey, it was another careless play that led directly to a goal.

Cardoso is in the lineup for his composure on the ball, but if he can’t showcase that trait, it’s tough to see him getting on the field. The news surrounding the U.S. midfield wasn’t all bad. Luca de la Torre was sharp in the first half, completing 38 of 39 passes, and was a bright spot throughout. But there isn’t quite enough steel when De la Torre and Cardoso are paired together. Fortunately, Adams was available, and Pochettino duly swapped the AFC Bournemouth midfielder in for Cardoso at halftime. The U.S. looked more solid in the center of the park in the second half, although Turkey didn’t seem to be pushing forward as much. All told, it was a day when Cardoso fell a notch down the U.S. midfield depth chart. — Carlisle

Dest, Robinson replacements need to find chemistry

Some slack should be given considering the inexperience of the fullbacks in the young starting XI, but Pochettino will still likely be unhappy with the ensuing lack of cohesion in defense that rapidly emerged in the first half. At left back, Max Arfsten, who was earning his fourth cap, struggled with winning duels and wasn’t able to connect many of his crosses going forward through his pressing runs. At right back, the debut of Alex Freeman was average at best, occasionally allowing opportunities for Turkey to run into the final third with dangerous and speedy counters. Coupled with Cardoso’s questionable start in front of the backline, the defensive puzzle quickly became scrambled when Turkey had possession, leading to difficult moments for Chris Richards and Miles Robinson in the heart of it all. Recognizing early on that the U.S. defensive experiment was proving to be porous, Turkey pounced on its recoveries in the final third and set the tone for the rest of the match. Pochettino will have little time to fine-tune his approach and might need to continue trying new faces in the fullback spots that would, ideally, be led by absent starters Robinson and Dest who weren’t available for the Gold Cup roster. — Hernandez

USMNT’s Tyler Adams out vs. Switzerland; Pochettino to rotate squad

By Paul Tenorio The Athletic June 9, 2025Updated 5:59 pm EDT

U.S. men’s national team midfielder Tyler Adams will not play Tuesday night in Nashville against Switzerland due to precautions around a foot injury. U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino said Monday in a press conference that Adams would be rested in this friendly as the U.S. eyes his involvement in the upcoming Concacaf Gold Cup.“Tyler is out for tomorrow because he suffered a small issue in his foot,” Pochettino said. “But I think it’s not a big issue. Hope it’s not a big issue. I think we can manage it in a good way and rest it for a few days, and then see if he can be ready for the Gold Cup. That is why he’s not going to be involved tomorrow.” Adams played just the second half in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Turkey, and after that appearance Pochettino said it had been a planned substitution due to the foot issue that Adams brought into camp from his Premier League season with Bournemouth.

USMNT's Tyler Adams Tyler Adams played the second half in Saturday’s loss to Turkey. (Photo by Williams Paul/Icon Sportswire/AP Images)

Pochettino also said the U.S. team would be heavily rotated for its second friendly in four days. The U.S. is entering the match at GEODIS Park on the heels of its first three-game losing streak under a single manager in 10 years.“Preparing for the Gold Cup, I think it’s good to make some changes now and to give the possibility to other players to play,” Pochettino said. “What I want to see tomorrow is to continue evolving the way that we started to play against Turkey. It’s a continuation of this feeling. If we will get tomorrow after 90 minutes, the same feeling, I think the progression is there and I’m going to be happy. The result also is important. But I think now, with a lot of new players, for the first time and building a team for the Gold Cup, I think the focus is more in the process to improve than maybe the result. And of course, I think the Gold Cup is going to be both progression and results.” Unused subs that could feature in this game include goalkeeper Matt Turner; center backs Walker Zimmerman and Tim Ream; fullback John Tolkin; midfielders Sebastian Berhalter, Brenden Aaronson and Paxten Aaronson; and forward Damion Downs.The U.S. lost to Turkey on Saturday in Connecticut, but Pochettino was pleased with the effort and mindset his team played with against the world’s 27th-ranked team, according to FIFA’s table. Switzerland, No. 20, will provide another tough test for the U.S., coming off a 4-2 win over Mexico in Utah on Saturday.Following the friendly, the U.S. will turn its attention to the Gold Cup, where it will open group play against Trinidad & Tobago in San Jose, Calif., on Sunday. Matches against guest nation Saudi Arabia and Haiti will follow, as the U.S. seeks to wrest back the continental title from Mexico. The two nations have alternated winning the competition for the last seven editions. (Top photo: David Butler II/Imagn Images)

USMNT’s upbeat reaction to Turkey loss a telling sign of need to restore basics

EAST HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT - JUNE 7: United States players huddle up before the second half of an International Friendly match against Turkey at Pratt & Whitney Stadium on June 7, 2025 in East Hartford, Connecticut. (Photo by Joe Buglewicz/Getty Images)

By Paul Tenorio June 8, 2025 THe Athletic

EAST HARTFORD, Conn. – U.S. men’s national team coach Mauricio Pochettino had just finished delivering a long answer about Jack McGlynn’s performance in the U.S.’s 2-1 loss to Turkey on Saturday when he paused and looked around at the room in front of him.“It’s a good thing we are talking about soccer, eh?” he asked. “That is a good thing. Fútbol.”The implication, of course, was that much of Pochettino’s ire after March’s Concacaf Nations League failure — and really, the frustration of the fanbase — centered less around the actual soccer in losses to Panama and Canada. Yes, that team also failed to impress with what it did on the field, but more concerning was the lack of effort. The absence of fight. The appearance of indifference.The inclusion of several MLS players for this camp was meant to add a bit more hunger to a team that seemed to lack some of that internal motivation. The challenge changed a bit when 10 U.S. regulars weren’t available via Club World Cup commitments, injuries, personal reasons or a desire for rest, in the case of Christian Pulisic. Almost the entire group has been filled with hopefuls now.

However, in a way, it allowed Pochettino to lean further toward the goal of the Gold Cup tournament, which starts for the U.S. against Trinidad and Tobago on June 15. He clearly wants to try to inject competition and desire into the group.So while it was odd, and certainly spoke to the negative state in which this program currently finds itself, that Pochettino and the players were mostly upbeat after a third consecutive loss, it was just as telling that they found satisfaction in hitting what had long been considered a bare minimum for the USMNT.“I think we need to be positive, because today I think only we can talk about fútbol action, soccer action,” Pochettino said. “The team showed great energy, great mentality, great attitude. And then it’s this type of game that maybe, if you make a mistake, you can lose. But you made a mistake because it’s soccer, it’s fútbol. That is why I think I am so, so happy about the way that I think we delivered the show and in the way that we tried to play.”

Malik Tillman misses a chance vs Turkey Malik Tillman missed a golden opportunity to score vs. Turkey. (David Butler II/Imagn Images)

It wasn’t completely unfair of Pochettino to feel as if there were positives to hold onto in the loss to a talented Turkey side. The U.S. was the better team for the first 20 minutes. Pochettino correctly pointed out that, until Johnny Cardoso made an egregious mistake in his own box and gifted Turkey a goal, the U.S. seemed in control.The inexperienced American side struggled to regain composure after Cardoso’s extra touch and attempted pass caromed off Turkey’s Arda Güler, the 20-year-old Real Madrid winger, and into the net. Only about two minutes later, a poor clearance was easily put home by Kerem Aktürkoğlu, who plays his club soccer at Benfica, to give Turkey the lead.The U.S. held on through the rest of the first half, but came out after halftime with renewed energy and much more purpose. It created chances — a weakness for this team over the past two cycles — and they probably should have had an equalizer. Malik Tillman’s point-blank header was the best opportunity, but there were a few other decent looks, as well, including two at the back post from Max Arfsten.“So many positives to take away from that game,” U.S. midfielder Tyler Adams said. “I was saying before, as we were walking off the field, I think it’s one of the first times that we’ve gone down, and we’ve created so many clear chances afterwards. So I think that’s a huge positive for us. Now, it’s just about putting the ball in the back of the net.”After five days together, Pochettino felt the soccer could be fine-tuned and fixed. There were many more details that the group would continue to add and build into how they played on Saturday. And Pochettino felt the game provided important experience for many of the players. For one, he pointed to Patrick Agyemang, 24, battling with two center backs, Çağlar Söyüncü and Merih Demiral, who have played at “the highest levels.”

USMNT's Patrick Agyemang vs. Turkey Agyemang, who grew up miles from the Connecticut stadium, takes on Demiral. (Joe Buglewicz/Getty Images)

But Pochettino’s focus was on the type of effort the team showed on the field. It has been clear in the head coach’s comments the past few weeks that he was frustrated with the pool — or at least with how things played out in March — and that he was also tuned in to what people were saying about the team.This summer and the forthcoming Gold Cup seem to be about sending a message. On Saturday, Pochettino put up the first smoke signals of his intent.But there is now an odd sort of dynamic where this group, filled with debutantes and unproven national team players, can set a standard that is meant to carry through to next summer’s World Cup — and to the “golden generation” of players that carry so much expectation into that tournament.That’s not an assumption. Pochettino said as much.“If I decide in September (to call a) different roster, what I want is the same level of commitment, attitude,” the veteran coach said. “Today, who is going to tell me: ‘Oh, we have showed a lack of…’? ‘We showed lack of…’ Lack of what?“Today, I think we can all agree the team showed what it needed to show. And then if the opponent is better or had more luck or you made a mistake, it’s not a problem. But for sure, playing in this way, we are going to win most of the games.”Saturday’s “first step” in the rebuilding process was a loss. If the message is going to truly take hold, the U.S., and Pochettino, will need the results to follow, too.

Club World Cup Group A: Stylish Palmeiras should dominate but will Inter Miami make it through?

Ahmed Walid June 10, 2025 6:06 am EDT

The first edition of the expanded Club World Cup will want to offer unpredictability as 32 teams from six different continents face each other.Palmeiras of Brazil, Portugal’s Porto, Al Ahly from Egypt and Major League Soccer side Inter Miami make up Group A of this year’s tournament, and beyond the Brazilian side, there is a case for any of the other teams to qualify for the straight-knockout round of 16.Miami’s defensive struggles might hinder them, despite the presence of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez in attack. Porto are looking at the tournament as an opportunity for redemption after one of their worst seasons of recent years at domestic and European levels. Meanwhile, Al Ahly have consistently done well in the previous annual format of this tournament, finishing third on four occasions this decade.Here, The Athletic picks out the group favorites, the fun facts, and the storylines to watch.

Fixtures:

(All kick-offs ET/BST)

June 14: Al Ahly vs Inter Miami (Miami — 8pm/1am June 15)

June 15: Palmeiras vs Porto (New York/New Jersey — 6pm/11pm)

June 19: Palmeiras vs Al Ahly (New York/New Jersey — 12pm/5pm)

June 19: Inter Miami vs Porto (Atlanta — 3pm/8pm)

June 23: Inter Miami vs Palmeiras (Miami — 9pm/2am June 24)

June 23: Porto vs Al Ahly (New York/New Jersey — 9pm/2am June 24)

The favorite is…

Palmeiras.

Under coach Abel Ferreira, the Sao Paulo side have won Brazil’s Serie A in 2022 and 2023, the Copa do Brasil in 2020 and two successive Copa Libertadores in 2020 and 2021.

They are currently fourth in Serie A, Brazilian football’s top division, early in its March-to-December 2025 season and will play Universitario of Peru in the round of 16 of this year’s Copa Libertadores when that competition resumes in August, with talents such as Estevao Willian and Richard Rios key to the team’s success. The signings of Facundo Torres, Paulinho and Vitor Roque have bolstered their attacking options this season, too.

Ferreira’s side are tactically flexible and able to attack and defend in different shapes, depending on the situation.

“We are not exceptional at one very specific thing, but we are good at everything,” the Portuguese head coach recently told FIFA. “We’re good and balanced when it comes to positional, attacking football. We’re good and balanced at playing counter-attacking football, we’re good at set pieces, we’re good at boxing in our opponents and making life hard for them with our defensive structure.”

Considering their consistent success in recent years, the talent in the squad and the tactical maturity they bring to the table, it’s hard to look beyond Palmeiras as Group A winners.

Estevao Willian is a rising star and will be joining Chelsea later this summer (Daniel Duarte/AFP via Getty Images)

The standout match is likely to be…

The opening match of the whole competition between Al Ahly and Miami in the latter’s hometown.

Cairo’s recently-crowned Egyptian champions, who also held the African Champions League title until earlier this month, have stepped up their game before at international level, beating Palmeiras in the Club World Cup four years ago to secure the bronze medal, and in this new format they are eager to reach the knockout rounds.

Miami will be hoping the same, and considering that their other two group games will be against Porto and Palmeiras, both sides are in a must-win situation in this opener. The footballing quality might not be of the highest calibre compared to other matches in the competition, but there is a case for this being an entertaining match.Al Ahly, the record 12-time African Champions League winners, know how to rise to the occasion regardless of their form. They are led by all-rounder midfielder Emam Ashour and Palestinian striker Wessam Abou Ali, who scored a combined 35 goals this season, with the recent arrivals of Egypt international forwards Ahmed Sayed Zizo and Trezeguet strengthening the squad.

On the other hand, Miami’s big names speak for themselves: Messi, Suarez, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. However, the start of their 2025 season hasn’t been smooth.

New coach Javier Mascherano’s side have dropped 19 points in MLS already after 16 games and were knocked out of the Concacaf Champions Cup in the semi-finals by Vancouver Whitecaps.

Miami’s defensive fragility might make this more of an even contest than people expect.

Will Inter Miami’s underwhelming form carry over into the Club World Cup? (Rich Lam/Getty Images)

The group’s galactico

Even if they are well into their thirties, Messi, Suarez, Busquets and Alba make Miami as a team the galactico of Group A. However, if we have learnt something in football, it’s that simply having galacticos doesn’t make you a strong side.

After winning the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, the award for having the best regular-season record in MLS, the departures of less-famous players have affected Miami, especially defensively. Diego Gomez, Julian Gressel, Robert Taylor, Matias Rojas and Leo Campana had important roles to play last season, and their departures have resulted in a less functional unit.

In addition, Drake Callender’s ongoing absence because of a groin injury has kept 38-year-old Oscar Ustari in goal. Ustari hasn’t been the most solid this season, conceding 1.8 goals more than expected in the league.

Defensive set pieces are another area where Miami have been exploited, but the individual quality they have up front is still creating numerous chances and racking up the goals.

In 2025, Miami are a team whose individuals are shaping the core of the attack, but the lack of selfless players to complement that is hindering the side overall.

The player who could make a name for themselves…

Estevao.

The dazzling 18-year-old winger will join Chelsea after this tournament, with Palmeiras having reached an agreement with the Premier League club last summer. Chelsea will pay €34million (£28.6m/$38.8m) up front, with another €23m tied to performance-based incentives.

Estevao’s incredible performances at youth levels fast-tracked his career, making his debut for Palmeiras aged 16. In the 2024 season, he scored 13 goals and provided nine assists in Serie A as Palmeiras finished second behind Botafogo.

The teenager excels in one-versus-one situations, can dribble in both directions and has the pace to drive past defenders. He has a left foot that knows its way to goal regardless of the shooting angle, while also creating chances for his team-mates in open play and on set pieces.

(Christian Alvarenga/Getty Images)

So far in the 2025 season, Estevao has been featuring more as an attacking midfielder, which is where he sees himself in the long term. “I started playing as a winger towards the end of my academy days, to avoid as much physical contact and give me more one-v-ones,” he told FIFA.

“That’s how I earned my spot in the Palmeiras side, where there’s a lot of competition for places in the middle of the park, but really, I’m more of a midfielder. That’s where I’m in my element. In a few years’ time, I’d like to get back to playing in my original position.”

Whether down the wing or in central areas, keep an eye out for Estevao’s tricks.

A story to look out for is…

Porto’s attempt to save their season.

The 30-times Portuguese champions finished the 2024-25 Primeira Liga in third place for the second year in a row, and weren’t competing with Benfica and eventual winners, Sporting CP, come the run-in, finishing nine and 11 points adrift respectively.

Add in taking just 11 points from their eight league-phase matches in the revamped Europa League and then being eliminated by Roma in its first knockout round, a last-32 exit from the Taca de Portugal (Portugal’s FA Cup) against fellow top-flight side Moreirense and losing to Sporting in the semi-finals of the Taca da Liga (League Cup) and it was a season to forget for Porto fans.

A positive performance in the Club World Cup could help them save face and prove to be the reset the club need.

Martin Anselmi was only able to guide Porto to a third-place finish this season (Miguel Riopa/AFP via Getty Images)Another story is how Al Ahly will fare under manager Jose Riveiro, whose first official game in charge will be that opener against Miami. Predecessor Marcel Koller was sacked in late April following their 1-1 draw at home against Mamelodi Sundowns in the second leg of a Champions League semi-final, which led to the holders’ elimination on the away-goals rule.Despite guiding Al Ahly to two league titles (and most of a third), two Egypt Cups (the country’s domestic knockout competition) and back-to-back Champions League triumphs, Koller was under pressure during the 2024-25 season due to a reactive style of play that didn’t suit the profiles of the squad.The manager’s seat at Al Ahly is always a hot one, and Riveiro, a 49-year-old Spaniard who was previously a manager in Finland and South Africa, needs a strong start to gain the fans’ approval.

You might not know this but…

Miami’s squad includes a midfielder with almost-perfect genes.

Federico Redondo is the son of former Argentina international and Real Madrid legend Fernando Redondo, who won two Champions League titles with the Spanish club in 1998 and 2000 and another as a Milan player in 2003. The 22-year-old is also the nephew of Santiago Solari, another former Madrid player, through his mother and is currently playing alongside Busquets.

Can Federico step up and emulate his family’s achievements?

(Top photos: Getty Images; design: Kelsea Petersen)

=====RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ===
Looking for a good warm meal on the way home from practice at River Road or Badger Field? Getting Ready for a Graduation or other Party? Try out the Best BarBQ in Town right across the street (131st) from Northview Church on the corner of Hazelldell & 131st. RackZ BBQ

Save 20% on your order

(mention the ole ballcoach)

======================RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ======================

6/6/25 USMNT plays Sat, Tues on TNT, Euro NL Spain vs Portugal Sun 3 pm Fox, USWNT Rules, Carmel FC Tryouts & Champs

June 6, 2025June 7, 2025 gatorbest carmel-fc, carmel-fc-tryouts, emma-hayes, nations-league, us-gold-cup-team, us-soccer, usmnt, uswnt

US Men Bring B Team Roster to Games vs Turkey on Sat 3:30 & Tues 8 pm vs Switzerland TNT

Sad to see that the US Men in their last competition before the World Cup at home next Summer – are once again bringing a B Team to the Gold Cup. Yes starters Matt Turner, Chris Richards (D) & Tyler Adams will be on hand but other than EVERYONE else is playing for the 3 or 4 spots left on what should be our World Cup team next summer. Sorry but I am still not convinced Poch is the guy to get us to the Final 4 or even Final 8 in the World Cup. It will be funny when Canada with Marsh & Asst Coach Mike Bradley finish higher/beat our pants off this summer.

USMNT GOLD CUP DETAILED ROSTER BY POSITION (club/country; caps/goals):

US Ladies – Youngsters Show They Can Win Too

Wow the US Ladies looked dynamite in their past 2 wins last week over China and Jamaica- the kids were really impressive vs Jamaica (highlights) as youngsters 21 YO Ally Sentanor (2 Goals), 17 YO midfielder Lily Yohannes, 20 YO Alyssa Thompson, & 19 YO Claire Hutton were simply fantastic. Again coach Hayes is proving there are alot of players capable of making our next World Cup team.

Euro Nations League Final – Spain vs Portugal Sun on Fox 3 pm

Wow – the Nations League Semi-Final between Spain and France was simply spectacular the 5-4 thriller in Bayern Munich was magisterial as Spanish GK Unai Simon was the difference. (Highlights). The Finals match Portugal and the legendary Ronaldo (who scored the winner Wed vs Germany) and Spain with Ballon D’Or finalist Yamal.

Indy 11 hosts Pittsburgh Riverhounds and former Carmel High, CDC GK Eric Dick Sat, June 14
Indy 11 Summer of Soccer is a cool promo going on with tickets and a chance to win a free trip to the Indy 11 Charleston game.

Notes
Indiana Pacers Pascal Siakam from Cameron & Obi Toppin show their Soccer Skills at practice before win over OKC. Can’t wait to check out the Sports Bra when they open. Messi was magisterial again last weekend with 3 assists & 2 goals vs Columbus. Loved this from CBS pre Champions League – these guys are as good as the TNT crew of Shaq, Kenny & Barkley. Vitinha (the 19 yo) was magical in the 5-0 win over Inter. Man it was awesome to see PSG finally win a Champions League title – just 2 years removed from having Mbappe, Messi & – Manager Luis Enrique brought Paris the title – loved the tifo PSG unveiled pregame regarding his daughter. I have watched a few of the TST games with Patt McAfee on ESPNU check it out its pretty cool. Nice to see Club World Cup ticket prices are coming down finally – $250+ to see these opening leg games was ridiculous (see below). Can’t wait to see former Carmel High & CDC GK Eric Dick – return to Indy to play the Indy 11 on Sat, June 14 for the Pittsburgh Riverhounds!

Congrats to the U17 Girls – coach Charles Switzer & Abby Donofrio

Carmel FC – 2025 Tryout and Evaluation Information

Carmel FC’s scheduled tryouts and player evaluations for the 2025/2026 Season will be in the following dates: Birth Years: 2015 – 2007 on June 9th. To register to tryout please click on this link: https://system.gotsport.com/programs/941103K41?reg_role=player

June 9th and 10th (11U-19U) Tryouts

2015 BOYS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 7, 10:00am to 11:15am
2015 GIRLS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 5, 10:00am to 11:15am”
2014 BOYS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 7, 12:00pm to 1:15pm
2014 GIRLS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 5, 12:00pm to 1:15pm
2013 BOYS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 7, 2:00pm to 3:15pm
2013 GIRLS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 5, 2:00pm to 3:15pm
2012 BOYS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 5A, 5:30pm to 6:45pm
2012 GIRLS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 7A, 5:30pm to 6:45pm
2011 BOYS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 5B, 5:30pm to 6:45pm
2011 GIRLS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 7B, 5:30pm to 6:45pm
2010 BOYS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 9A, 5:30pm to 6:45pm
2010 GIRLS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 1A, 5:30pm to 6:45pm
2009 BOYS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 9B, 5:30pm to 6:45pm
2009 GIRLS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 1B, 5:30pm to 6:45pm
008 BOYS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 10A, 5:30pm to 6:45pm
2008 GIRLS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 2A, 5:30pm to 6:45p
2007 BOYS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 10B, 5:30pm to 6:45pm
2007 GIRLS: Shelbourne Soccer Complex, Field 2B, 5:30pm to 6:45pm

The 2011 Girls Gold went undefeated in the U14/U15 top flight @ St Francis Siege last weekend.

Congrats to the Carmel FC 2014 Boys who made the Championship Final against the top teams in the state in Presidents Cup last weekend.

Greyhound Girls Soccer Camp – Murray Stadium
Girls Jul 07 – Jul 09, 2025 at 9:00-10:30 $95 (5th-8th Grade) Register

Carmel High School Soccer Camp- Boys – Murray Stadium 6:30-8:30 pm
June 23-25 (grades 5-8^th) $125
July 21-23 $125
Questions? Please contact Coach Shane Schmidt at sschmidt@ccs.k12.in.us

GAMES ON TV SCHEDULE

Fri, June 6

2:45 pm fubo? Norway vs Italy WCC
7:30 pm Golazo Louisville City vs Utah NWSL
10 pm Prime Video San Diego vs Seattle Reign NWSL

Sat, June 7

12 noon FoxSp2 Andorra vs England WCC
1 pm CBS Gothem FC vs KC Current NWSL
3:30 pm TNT, Tele US Men vs Turkey
7 pm Ion Bay City vs Portland NWSL
9 pm Apple Free Colorado vs Austin MLS
10 pm Ion LA Angel City vs Chicago

Sun, June 8

9 am Fubo? Germany vs France 3rd place
2:45 pm Fox Portugal vs Spain Nations League Finals
4 pm Golazo, Para+ Washington vs NC Courage NWSL
7 pm Apple Free Portland Timbers vs St Louis

Mon, June 9

2:45 pm FS2 Italy vs Moldova WCC

Tues, June 10

8 pm TNT, Peacock US Men vs Switzerland
Fri, June 13
10:30 pm FS1 Portland Timbers vs San Jose MLS

June 13 – 29 GOLD CUP MEN

June 14
4:30 pm Fox St. Louis City vs LA Galaxy
7 pm TV 8 & CBS Golaso Indy 11 vs Pittsburg Riverhounds (Carmel GK Eric Dick returns)
7:30 pm Apple Free Columbus vs Vancouver
8 pm Univision Al Ahly vs Inter Miami Club World Cup
9:30 pm Apple Free Colorado vs Orlando MLS

Sun, June 15

3 pm Univision PSG Vs Athletico Madrid
6 pm Fox, Uni US Men vs Trinidad Gold Cup
8:15 pm FS1 Haiti vs Saudi Arabia GC
11 pm FS1 Cost Rica vs Suriname

Thur, June 19

6 pm FS1 US Men vs KSA Gold Cup

Sat, June 21

7 pm TV8, Golazo Indy 11 vs Las Vegas Lights FC

Sun, June 22

7 pm FS1 US Men vs Haiti Gold Cup

Thur, June 26

TBS, Peacock US Women vs Ireland

Sun, June 29^th

TNT, Peacock US Women vs Ireland in Cincy

US Men

What can fans expect from the Gold Cup this summer?
USMNT Gold Cup roster: Dest among missing stars, others see ‘big chance
For the USMNT, a successful summer is harder than ever to define
Dest latest USMNT absentee in Gold Cup roster
Walker Zimmerman, Paxten Aaronson, Nathan Harriel added to USMNT roster
USMNT’s Steffen (knee) set to miss Gold Cup
Injured Balogun dropped from U.S. Gold Cup squad
2025 USMNT Friendly: Scouting Türkiye Stars & Stripes
Taking a deep dive on Damion Downs as he prepares for his first USMNT call-up

US LADIES

What we learned about USWNT depth vs. China and Jamaica, from goalkeeper to forward
Emma Hayes has found her USWNT Triple Espresso alternatives
‘Momma Em’ helps LaBonta make USWNT history
Macario helps USWNT ease past China in friendly
Hayes: Starlet Yohannes has big USWNT future
Source: USWNT’s Albert leaving PSG for Lyonnes

Euro 2025 Power Rankings: England drop down; Spain top; Norway rise
Bonmatí: Why Spain can now match England, U.S.
England’s 10 days of turmoil leave Euro 2025 squad questions for Wiegman

Nations League Finals – Euro

Mbappé vs. Yamal: France and Spain dual in UEFA Nations League semifinal
Lamine Yamal adds further spice to clash with social media post
France vs. Spain guide: Schedule, how to watch and more
‘You’ve mistreated him’ – Luis de la Fuente goes to battle for Spain star
Lamine Yamal says he ‘did his talking on the pitch’ following historic performance vs France
Spain 5-4 France: a result not seen in nearly 60 years 💥

WORLD

World Cup Qualifiers: Norway vs Italy – probable line-ups and where to watch on TV
Tottenham fire Postecoglou after Europa Win
Yamal makes Ballon d’Or ‘statement’ in Spain win
Brazil twice crushed Ancelotti’s World Cup dream. Now it’s one they share
Brazil held to scoreless draw in Ancelotti’s debut
Julián Álvarez fuels Argentina’s 1-0 win vs. Chile; Messi has quiet night
Julián Alvarez scores a delightful dink in Argentina’s win over Chile 🕷
World Cup 2026: Who is through and how does qualifying work?
Hendrick: “No valid argument for Mohamed Salah not win Ballon d’Or”

Happening in the US – Club World Cup

The Soccer Tournament (TST) 101: Dates, players, history
2025 Club World Cup power rankings: Where all 32 teams stand
The 2025 Club World Cup field is strong. This one would be better
Breaking down each major club’s Champions League need + LAFC clinch spot in Club World Cup!
Your complete guide to the Club World Cup stadiums 🏟️
2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Group F Preview
2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Group G Preview
2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Group A Preview Messi and friends take on a tough group.
Club World Cup poses new challenge for physical preparation

MLS

Whitecaps players, staff ill following CONCACAF Champions Cup
‘This feels amazing.’ Denis Bouanga scores in extra time to send LAFC to Club World Cup
LAFC stuns Club América to reach Club World Cup, becomes a perfect MLS representative
LAFC stun Club América to book Club World Cup ticket
LAFC book place in Chelsea’s group at Club World Cup
Sounders owner reportedly confronts players over ‘Club World Ca$h Grab’ shirts

Reffing

Ban for life?
Yellow Card (after the play)

Goalkeeping

‘You’ve mistreated him’ – Luis de la Fuente goes to battle for Spain star
Best EPL Goals of the Season
USL Championship Save of the Week – Week 12
USL Jägermeister Cup Save of the Round – Round 2
How to Throw the Ball Properly
GK Solo Training

LAFC Win the $10M Match

LAFC beat Club America 2-1 in dramatic fashion on Saturday night to book the final spot in the Club World Cup later this month. They’ll join Inter Miami and the Seattle Sounders as the only MLS teams in the tournament (all 8 groups here).

The game went a full 120 minutes after Igor Jesus headed home the equalizer off a Denis Bouanga corner in the 89th minute. Then, in the 115th minute, Bouanga sealed the game with a quick shot after a beautiful build-up from the Black & Gold. Here’s an up-close look at the goal celebration in front of the 3252’s with Steve Cherundolo fist pumping into the crowd. The atmosphere at this match was incredible. Club America fans came out in full force, occupying one whole grandstand. With so much at stake, it felt like a major European Cup final.

A record $1B in prize money will be distributed to the 32 clubs. Each team will receive $9.55M just for qualifying for the tournament, making that goal from Bouanga a nearly $10M goal. The players, however, aren’t happy with how that money is being distributed. Seattle Sounders players wore “World Cup Cash Grab” shirts in the warmups on Sunday. The MLSPA released a statement backing the players, saying they deserve more of the prize money. The players should always receive a sizable chunk of any money, but sigh… this is FIFA we’re talking about. Is anyone surprised? Apparently the Sounders’ owner angrily confronted the players in the locker room after the game.

LAFC kicks off their tournament against Chelsea in Atlanta on June 16th. Of course, we’ll have it all covered for you.

Save 20% on your order

(mention the ole ballcoach)

======================RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ======================

On Tuesday, the Chicago Fire unveiled plans to build a brand new 22k seat soccer-specific stadium. The $650M stadium, set to open in 2028, will be privately funded and be located downtown in the South Loop. Fire fans deserve this. They finally have an owner who is willing to invest in the team. It is only right that one of America’s greatest cities has a world-renowned soccer stadium

USMNT Update

We’ve entered the offseason for our American lads playing overseas. Here are a few things you should know.

Christian Pulisic will likely renew his contract now that AC Milan has hired Max Allegri as the new head coach and Igli Tare as Sporting Director. Discussions are ongoing, and the contract is expected to be extended until 2030.

Josh Sargent is expected to leave Norwich City after being named to the English Championship Team of the Season. Premier League and Bundesliga clubs are both in the hunt for his signature after scoring 15 goals this season.

Gio Reyna will be leaving Dortmund after only playing 614 minutes all season. He’s been managing injury problems the last few years, but Dortmund don’t seem to value him even when he’s healthy. If Gio wants to be a starter next summer, he has to be playing consistently.

Atletico Madrid leads the race to sign Johnny Cardoso from Real Betis, but the $40 million asking price could be a deterrent. Tottenham are closely watching, but it appears Cardoso would prefer to stay in La Liga.

The Soccer Tournament (TST) 101: Dates, players, history

ESPN Jun 3, 2025, 02:30 PM ET

Teams around the world are taking the pitch for a third consecutive summer in Cary, North Carolina, for The Soccer Tournament. The 7-on-7 event features 48 men’s teams and 16 women’s teams in separate brackets with $1 million on the line.

Check out more key facts about the tournament below.

When is 2025 TST? How can fans watch?

The tournament runs June 4 through June 9. ESPN+ will stream 27 matches, with 20 matches available on ESPNU. Fans can catch the action in the men’s and women’s streaming hub.
Who has won TST?

Newtown Pride FC won the inaugural tournament in 2023. La Bombonera and U.S. Women took home the titles in 2024, the first year with split men’s and women’s brackets.

What are notable rules?

The Soccer Tournament features target score time, which means a game finishes on a final goal as opposed to when time ends. The target score is determined by adding one to the leading team’s score after the full-time whistle. A player from each team is removed from the field of play every three minutes until the target score is reached.

Which teams and players are participating in 2025?

Teams such as Club America, AFC Bournemouth and Borussia Dortmund will be fielding squads. Select men’s players include Sergio Agüero, Diego Godín, Andy Carroll, Nani and Sebastian Giovinco, while select women’s players include Hope Solo, Ali Krieger, Carli Lloyd, Allie Long and Heather O’Reilly.

Check out the ESPN soccer hub page for the latest news, scores and more.

USMNT Gold Cup squad: Dest out; Injuries shape Pochettino’s final 26-man roster

By Jeff Rueter June 5, 2025Updated 3:44 pm EDT

Sergiño Dest is the latest core member of the United States men’s national team who will not be playing in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup. The PSV right back missed nearly a year after tearing his ACL in April 2024 but was able to make seven appearances down the stretch as his team stormed back to win the Eredivisie. Nevertheless, managing that injury remains the priority rather than throwing him into the competition despite his appearance in training over the last week.“The technical, medical and high performance staffs have done a series of evaluations this week on all the players in camp, and in the case of Sergiño we determined the best decision is for the player to have an individualized training program for the summer so he can focus on being fully recovered and ready to perform next season,” head coach Mauricio Pochettino said a statement.Dest joins a long list of mainstays who are missing this Gold Cup, including Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah, Folarin Balogun, and Antonee Robinson for injuries or personal reasons; Weston McKennie, Tim Weah and Gio Reyna also miss out, as their clubs’ involvement in the Club World Cup precludes their international involvement. Josh Sargent was also omitted as a coach’s decision. As such, Pochettino didn’t have much work to do as he revealed the USMNT’s final squad on Thursday.Having initially called in a 27-man training squad that required a sole dismissal, Pochettino saw five players depart his camp. Goalkeepers Patrick Schulte (oblique) and Zack Steffen (knee) necessitated the late inclusion of 21-year-old Chris Brady. DeJuan Jones (lower body), Sean Zawadzki (knee) and Balogun (ankle) added to the departure list in defense and at striker.

Still, there are some mainstays of the 2022 World Cup and 2024 Copa América rosters to headline the survivors. Matt Turner projects to start in goal, making up for lost action as he played just four times (three FA Cup starts, one Carabao Cup start) on loan with Crystal Palace. Tim Ream, Chris Richards and Walker Zimmerman provide tournament experience at center back. Brenden Aaronson, Johnny Cardoso, Luca de la Torre and Malik Tillman had squad roles in those recent tournaments, while Haji Wright is the sole goalscorer from either preceding major tournament to be on this Gold Cup squad.With all of their games on home soil, the USMNT will face Trinidad & Tobago, Saudi Arabia — an invited guest of Concacaf who made significant financial investment in the North and Central American confederation before its participation was confirmed — and Haiti in Group D. The top two teams from each of the four groups advance to a three-round knockout bracket.The Gold Cup title has alternated between Mexico and the U.S. for every installment since 2011, when Mexico beat the U.S. in a second straight Gold Cup final, with the USMNT going on to win in 2013, 2017 and 2021. Given how the groups are configured, their rivalry could resume as soon as the quarterfinal stage if one team wins their group and the other finishes second. If both teams have an identical finish in the group, whether it’s first or second, the bracket wouldn’t put them together until a potential final.As for some of the other intriguing elements on the final squad (full roster listed below):

Alex Freeman: the next man up

Right back has remained a rotational role since Dest suffered his knee injury. Joe Scally started in his place at the Copa América, but a series of poor performances with the national team leave him off of this squad entirely. Nathan Harriel was the United States’ starter at the 2024 Olympics, but 20-year-old Alex Freeman projects to be better suited to make Pochettino’s lineup.A homegrown product of Orlando City SC, Freeman has vaulted up prospect lists with a breakout first half to the 2025 season. The son of former Green Bay Packer wide receiver Antonio Freeman, he stands 6-foot-2 and has impressive and agile mobility for his stature. Among 57 MLS fullbacks and wingbacks who already have 500 minutes this season, Freeman ranks second with 27 chances created, averaging 2.88 chances per 100 touches of the ball. Despite his athleticism and skillset, Freeman has already displayed impressive positional awareness and seldom ventured too far from his post in Orlando’s team shape.reeman is already attracting European interest despite only becoming a regular first-division starter three months ago. He could be on a fast track to become Dest’s understudy in time for the World Cup — and, depending on how Dest looks in his first full season back from injury, provide a worthy alternative at the position.

Berhalter in for USMNT

Seven players on this Gold Cup squad could stand to make their USMNT debut by the end of the group stage. Perhaps most notable is Sebastian Berhalter, with the defensive midfielder having seen his stock soar along with the entire Vancouver Whitecaps squad under first-year head coach Jesper Sørensen.The son of Pochettino’s predecessor in the role, Gregg Berhalter, the 24-year-old can play defensive midfield but sees himself as best fitting in a more advanced box-to-box role. He’s got a knack for arriving late in the box to complete team attacking sequences that often involve him in their buildup, refining his first-touch shooting from just beyond 18 yards to give Vancouver another scoring threat beyond Brian White (who is among the strikers on this roster).hile he wasn’t far enough in his development to garner consideration under his father, the work he’s done with the Whitecaps makes him a deserving inclusion on Pochettino’s squad.

“It’s been my dream since I’ve been a kid, but I think it’s something that I’m just taking one game at a time,” Berhalter told The Athletic in late April. “Being around the national team so much — I think I’ve watched every recent game more than probably anyone else has. I just worry about winning games here and performing well.”

Here is the USMNT Gold Cup squad in full:

GOALKEEPERS: Chris Brady (Chicago Fire), Matt Freese (New York City FC), Matt Turner (Crystal Palace)

DEFENDERS: Max Arfsten (Columbus Crew), Alex Freeman (Orlando City), Nathan Harriel (Philadelphia Union), Mark McKenzie (Toulouse), Tim Ream (Charlotte FC), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace), Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati), John Tolkin (Holstein Kiel), Walker Zimmerman (Nashville SC)

MIDFIELDERS: Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United), Tyler Adams (Bournemouth), Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps), Johnny Cardoso (Real Betis), Luca de la Torre (San Diego FC), Diego Luna (Real Salt Lake), Jack McGlynn (Houston Dynamo), Quinn Sullivan (Philadelphia Union), Malik Tillman (PSV Eindhoven)

FORWARDS: Paxten Aaronson (FC Utrecht), Patrick Agyemang (Charlotte FC), Damion Downs (FC Köln), Brian White (Vancouver Whitecaps), Haji Wright (Coventry City)

Pochettino likens Pulisic to USA’s Messi, addresses stars passing on Gold Cup

USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino and Christian Pulisic

By Paul Tenorio The Athletic June 3, 2025

U.S. men’s national team coach Mauricio Pochettino said this week he hopes to instill in his team the type of urgency and desire to play for the national team that exists in other countries. Speaking on the Unfiltered Soccer with Landon Donovan and Tim Howard podcast, Pochettino cited some of the biggest names he has coached — Argentine legend Lionel Messi, French World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe and Brazilian star Neymar — as examples of top players who remain “desperate” to play for their respective national teams.“The people need to prioritize the national team,” Pochettino said. “We were talking about Argentine players, or Brazilian players or English players or Spanish players, they are desperate. Even Messi, even Neymar, even Mbappé for France, these guys are desperate to go to the national team. For them, when they go, they don’t see if it’s a friendly game, if it’s an official game, it’s a World Cup, it doesn’t matter, because the possibility to defend one time more your flag, your shirt. It’s about to feel proud. And that is the responsibility to us to translate.”The comments are striking after Christian Pulisic made the decision, in conjunction with U.S. Soccer, to skip this summer’s Gold Cup. Citing his heavy workload with AC Milan and the U.S. — Pulisic is one of just 10 outfield players in the top five European leagues to appear in 50 games in each of the past two seasons — Pulisic felt he needed the rest in order to be healthy for next summer’s World Cup.Donovan compared Pulisic to Messi in that he has the most eyeballs on him of any American player and asked how the staff could handle competing in the tournament this summer without Pulisic. Pochettino praised his team’s top player and said he does not question Pulisic’s commitment to the group or the country.“I think Christian in the last year showed a great quality,” Pochettino said. “He’s performing in Europe, also he’s performing with the national team. He’s a very talented player that can help us to win. You say people compare Messi with Christian Pulisic. I don’t want to be disrespectful with Messi or Pulisic, but I think in this country, Pulisic should be our Messi, because he’s an iconic player, the kids on the street for sure if you ask one soccer player in this country, it’s Pulisic.

“We have very good communication with our players. Christian is a very nice guy, is very committed to the national team and he wants to help and of course is desperate to play in the World Cup and arrive in the best condition. All these conversations that we were taking with the players, I think that was the best decision to help him because every player are in different circumstances, and even if I want Christian here or another player here – Antonee (Robinson, injured Fulham left back) or like this – I think no one or another teammate is going to see badly about if I’m saying that, because I think … sometimes you need to put the interest in the medium and long term than in the present.“Because for me after the March camp, if I say, ‘OK I don’t care about [anything], I want to win tomorrow,’ [there] is [a] consequence after, because I think we are all preparing and focused on the World Cup. And sometimes we need to be open and flexible in some decisions. When we talk about these types of decisions for us, it was a tough decision … It was our decision in the end, because if you say you need to come — you cannot force the player to come — but I think I need to be fair and say it was a collective decision to try to find the best for the national team and the best for the player.”“We are building something and always when you are building something, always there are up and downs in this period. It’s true that we are a little bit disappointed. We were really excited after January. not because of the two (games) … but how the players, how the team showed the responsibility that we wanted to translate. Then with all the circumstances in March, it didn’t help us to show that.”The Gold Cup was meant to be an important team-building month for the U.S. under Pochettino, his first extended camp with the U.S. since taking over after last summer’s Copa América failure. Now it takes on new meaning as Pochettino evaluates his wider national team pool. That being said, Pochettino insisted the goal was still to win.

Ultimately, even without Pulisic and other starters — Robinson, Yunus Musah, Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, Folarin Balogun and Gio Reyna are also missing the tournament via injury, FIFA Club World Cup duty, or, in Musah’s case, personal reasons — the tournament serves as a step toward next summer’s World Cup.That is true for MLS players trying to break into the squad, but also for others, including World Cup starter Matt Turner. Pochettino said on the podcast he told Turner that the goalkeeper had to start finding minutes in order to be ready for the World Cup.“We are very open,” Pochettino said. “We don’t have fears to talk with the player. Sometimes it’s painful because you need to tell some players: ‘Look, you need to play.’ At the moment OK, so far it’s good, because we are checking your character, your personality, your capacity to be a leader, the leadership that you have, but at some point to be a leader you need to compete.”Pochettino also praised players like Diego Luna, who have started to show they bring value to the squad simply with their mentality and approach. Pochettino noted that Luna didn’t want to come out of the game after being elbowed in the nose during a January-camp friendly, then bloodied and taped up, assisted on a goal.Asked about who the leaders are on the team, Pochettino alluded to giving everyone a chance to prove their role — whether as a squad player, a starter or a leader.“When we arrived in October I think the picture changed in the national team. In the way that we like to translate the message and the way that we are open to give the opportunity to all the players to step up and show the character,” Pochettino said. “Because we don’t want to assume that because four years ago someone was captain now should be the captain, because the circumstance changed. I think we are very open and giving the opportunity to the group and the players that are involved to say, ‘Come on, show me.’ For me, it’s a natural process. Sometimes some players can surprise you and can step up.“The most important thing is to see in a spontaneous way who will step up when things are wrong, when the stress is there, when the pressure is there, who is going to say ‘Hey, I am here.’”There is, of course, an enormous amount of pressure on the team to perform in next summer’s tournament. The U.S. advanced to the knockout round in the 2022 World Cup with one of the youngest squads in the tournament, behind the belief that the payoff would come in 2026. Struggles in last summer’s Copa América, where the U.S. was eliminated in the group stage, and in this spring’s Concacaf Nations League, where it lost to Panama and Canada, have upped the stakes.“I feel the responsibility. We all feel the responsibility,” Pochettino said. “Knowing that it’s soccer or football, it’s about the joy, it’s about not to put too much pressure on the players, because the players need to perform. … But yes of course it’s a massive pressure. The mentality and the culture of this country is to win.“The size of this country puts you in a position that you need to deliver. You need to show that you are brave, that you are a winner, but not talking like I am now. It’s easy to talk. The most important is go and to show. Show on the pitch when you need to defend your flag there, fighting and being a team, that is a moment to say, ‘Yes we have quality, I am a good player, but now it’s about to defend your country.’” (Top photo: John Dorton/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Image

What we learned about USWNT from wins over China, Jamaica

Jeff KassoufJun 4, 2025, 01:20 PM ET

It’s June, which means United States women’s national team head coach Emma Hayes is staring at her self-imposed deadline of figuring out the core of players on which she will rely going forward.A pair of comfortable victories — 3-0 over China on May 31, followed by 4-0 over Jamaica on Tuesday night — didn’t offer the same kind of revealing test Brazil offered in April, but Hayes continued to dole out debuts this window in her quest to find every possible solution. Hayes said prior to the two games that “we’re very much on track for identifying that core group” that she will develop on the road to the 2027 World Cup. She offered more specifics in the days that followed, including the most revealing clue yet about who will be the USWNT’s next No. 1 goalkeeper following Tuesday’s win over Jamaica.When I watch the team, they very much molded into an Emma Hayes team,” Hayes said after Tuesday’s victory. “That’s how I feel when I watch us. I feel like there’s a lot of composure to the performances.”Drawing too definitive of conclusions from these two games in a vacuum risks hyperbole, but the victories over China and Jamaica brought further confirmation of trends that were already developing.Who continues to establish themselves as part of that core, and who among the new players looks like they will stick around? Let’s look by position.

Goalkeepers: A clear favorite emerges

This moment of uncertainty and inexperience in goal is unprecedented in the USWNT’s 40-year history, but there is now a clear favorite to take the No. 1 job — something that could not be said previously.

Phallon Tullis-Joyce started both games for the USWNT this window, earning her second and third caps after her strong debut against Brazil in April. Tullis-Joyce wasn’t busy in either game as the USWNT dominated possession (including 82% against Jamaica, who had zero shots on target and generated 0.07 expected goals, per ESPN Research). That can be the life of the goalkeeper, however — especially for the USWNT against inferior opposition.Hayes tried to pour some water on the idea that any goalkeeper will be the No. 1 by stating it is necessary to develop multiple players for the role ahead of 2027. Yet she also made it clear how Tullis-Joyce is the leader.”I think it’s fair to say Phallon’s experience at this moment in time, with the current group that I’ve got, is ahead,” Hayes said. “I still want to develop the other goalkeepers, but I get a fair sense of where their level is, one in relation to each other, but two in relation to 2027.

“There’s no easy way to answer that question, because I don’t think it’s as simple as just saying you’re my No. 1 and develop one. I think it would be foolish of me to do that in case someone falls out of form or they get injured, or those things, but Phallon is doing a tremendous job with everything that I’m asking.”

Tullis-Joyce is the most in-form American goalkeeper at the club level — although Claudia Dickey‘s NWSL “data don’t lie,” as Hayes said recently before calling up Dickey for the first time — and she’s starting to establish the necessary relationships with her defenders.

The most recent games were also the first with all-world center back Naomi Girma available this year. Hayes noted after Tuesday’s match that it was important for Girma and Tullis-Joyce to “build connections.” There should be more of that in the future.

Defenders: Another debut in the books

Girma’s return brought a calming presence and experience to the back line. “Naomi is like getting the Rolls-Royce out of the garage,” Hayes said on Tuesday. “I mean, what an unbelievable football player — just like a Rolls-Royce is an unbelievable car.”Emily Fox shone as the high-and-wide fullback in Tuesday’s game plan against Jamaica, and she was rewarded with an assist on the opening goal as she pushed up to join the forward line in the attack. The newer faces on Tuesday were Tara McKeown, whom Hayes continues to test in different partnerships at center back, and Kerry Abello, who made her international debut at fullback.McKeown completed a game-high 101 passes (on 108 attempts) as she and Girma set a faster tempo from deep areas to maneuver around Jamaica’s lower defensive block. Tuesday was also the first time the two had played together.Abello’s debut on Tuesday was the most interesting. She has been a standout fullback and winger for the NWSL champion Orlando Pride over the past year-plus, and she enters the international scene as the USWNT is trying to figure out its depth chart at fullback, a quest that’s stretched through several cycles.Hayes said before this training camp that she has begun to see Abello round out her game as someone who can be an attacking fullback or a stay-at-home defender as Orlando builds out attacks in a three-back formation. Abello played that latter role against Jamaica, allowing Fox to push high with freedom, and nearly scored in the final minutes of her debut, which was relatively unremarkable (that’s a compliment). She looked like she fits just fine, as much as any debutant could in a game the USWNT thoroughly controlled from the opening kickoff.

Avery Patterson is also a strong challenger at the fullback position and at 22, has a bright future ahead. She came off the bench against Jamaica and delivered a picture-perfect assist to Lynn Biyendolo for the fourth USWNT goal.

Midfielders: The kids are all right

Let’s lay it out there again: Lily Yohannes is the real deal at 17 years old. Yes, she has plenty to work on, but her ceiling is so obviously high that Hayes’ biggest question is not “if,” but “where” in the midfield triangle she should play Yohannes in the long-term.On Tuesday against Jamaica, Yohannes lined up as the No. 10 instead of the box-to-box midfielder, and she delivered another signature through ball to lead to the USWNT’s first goal. Her vision is exceptional, and she makes it look casual. The next development of her game will be getting accustomed to some of the more direct, physical play like she experienced vs. Brazil in April.ellow teenager Claire Hutton also started against Jamaica to earn her third cap — this time as part of a double pivot in the middle alongside Sam Coffey. Hutton once again looked like a more experienced player as she and Coffey checked into wide spaces to receive the ball and draw Jamaica out of its defensive shape.The USWNT has had a love-hate relationship with the double pivot in recent years, and the truth is that the exact setup will depend on the opponent. But it was effective again against Jamaica, and Hutton playing alongside Coffey provides balance and support. Both Hutton and Yohannes have the makings of players who can be fixtures with the USWNT for multiple cycles.

Forwards: A Cat and mouse game

Catarina Macario is the USWNT’s No. 9 for the foreseeable future, especially with Sophia Wilson out on maternity leave. The unique way in which Macario plays that position affects everything and everyone around her.Macario is more comfortable as a No. 10 and thus plays the striker role as a false nine — a role the USWNT has not consistently played with in recent memory. There’s a Catch-22 to that: It allows Macario to play freely, combining with her attacking midfielder and drawing center backs out of shape, but it also could mean there’s a void left in the strike space at times.

Hayes is savvy and has accounted for this by encouraging her wingers to take the vacant space on the inside, and nobody is doing that better right now than Alyssa Thompson. The 20-year-old Thompson oozes confidence on the ball one-on-one and likes to cut in and combine or shoot from the left flank — which is exactly what led to the USWNT’s second goal on Tuesday.

Ally Sentnor scored that goal and registered a brace, giving her four goals in eight caps. Sentnor is exceptional on the dribble; former USWNT winger Tobin Heath recently said Sentnor “has demonstrated Messi-like qualities.”Sentnor also can fire a powerful shot on a short run-up and without much space — a signature skill of another two-time World Cup champion winger, Christen Press. While she still needs to improve her shot selection and accuracy, but she is already producing for the USWNT at 21 years old. She will be part of the solution at wide forward alongside Thompson and Michelle Cooper, among others.

Lynn Biyendolo also scored a brace off the bench as she continues to fill any role that Hayes throws at her — Biyendolo’s 12 goals as a substitute are more than any other USWNT player since 2016, per Opta.

“We really wanted to be ruthless in the final third,” Hayes said on Tuesday. “I don’t think we started out like that, but I think we ended like that.”There are tougher tests to come, most imminently against Canada on July 2, but as Hayes said on Tuesday, there is a maturity to the USWNT despite its inexperience. The progress from this time last year is clear both in the depth of the player pool and the team’s patterns of play.By this time next month, Hayes will have identified her core for the 2027 World Cup. From here, that process looks right on track.

USWNT honors former captain Becky Sauerbrunn with bobbleheads, fireworks and a dominant win

ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - JUNE 03: Becky Sauerbrunn is honored during her retirement ceremony prior to the United States playing Jamaica during an international friendly at Energizer Park on June 03, 2025 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Bill Barrett/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images)

By Asli Pelit The Athletic June 4, 2025

ST. LOUIS, Mo.—Former U.S. women’s national team defender Becky Sauerbrunn got a hometown hero’s welcome on Tuesday at Energizer Park ahead of, during and after the USWNT defeated Jamaica 4-0 to close out a successful international window.Having retired from professional soccer last December after a 16-year career, the former U.S. captain returned not only as part of TNT’s broadcast crew covering this friendly, but also to receive a proper send-off.“I’m not used to having a lot of spotlight on me for something like this, but it’s really about celebrating the people who got you here,” Sauerbrunn told reporters Monday.For someone who’s never been entirely comfortable in the spotlight, Tuesday night must’ve been overwhelming — in a good way. Sauerbrunn was born in St. Louis and developed her game here as a budding talent until she left for the University of Virginia in 2003. Her hometown sent her off in style with a celebration that included fireworks, a very realistic bobblehead, a standing ovation and a birthday cake (she turns 40 years old on Friday — June 6) fit for a legend.“You know you’ve made it when you’ve got a bobblehead,” U.S. head coach Emma Hayes told reporters in her pre-match press conference.A commanding presence at center back, Sauerbrunn made 219 appearances for the U.S., anchoring the backline to two Women’s World Cup titles and Olympic gold in 2012. It’s quite a legacy for someone who never sought the spotlight. And it’s one the current USWNT squad deeply respects and hopes to carry forward.As the team bid farewell to Sauerbrunn off the field, the next generation made sure she had no reason to worry about the future on it. Hayes’ squad delivered a dominant win, applying relentless pressure for 90 minutes, having 82 percent possession and allowing only two shots from the opposition.Though the accomplished defender never scored for her country, she came very close two years ago at the same stadium that bid her goodbye.On Tuesday, it was rookie Ally Sentnor who scored twice in the first half and Sauerbrunn’s close friend Lynn Biyendolo who added two more after she came on early in the second half. Meanwhile, the backline, Sauerbrunn’s old territory, was anchored by captain Naomi Girma, a fitting torchbearer for the legacy she left behind.“I know I just said nobody can (fill Becky’s shoes), but I think the next obvious person would be Naomi,” Biyendolo said. “The two things that they have in common are that they didn’t want the role, but it just found them. And I think that makes the best leaders, is somebody who just doesn’t want it, but is so natural at it.”Girma, now the most expensive transfer in women’s soccer history, had a rocky start at Chelsea after joining in January, left sidelined by a string of injuries. However, she is back and delivering. With both a Women’s Super League title and the FA Cup under her belt, she is proving to be worth every penny. As former Chelsea manager Hayes put it, bringing her back “is like getting the Rolls-Royce out of the garage.”Girma told ussoccer.com, “Becky was one of the best leaders this team has ever had.”That kind of legacy doesn’t happen overnight.

Girma has taken on a lot of the leadership responsibility left behind by Sauerbrunn. (Visionhaus / Getty Images)Listening to her former teammates after the match, it was clear: the trust and respect Sauerbrunn commands were built over years of grit, consistency and quiet leadership, beginning with her debut in 2008, when she earned her first cap against Canada at the Four Nations Tournament in China, playing with a broken nose.“Becky is a legend, an icon,” Kerry Abello, who made her debut Tuesday, said after the match. “The game of women’s soccer will never be the same without her.” Abello was eight years old when Sauerbrunn debuted back in 2008. Like many of the new generation of USWNT players, she grew up admiring her.On the pitch, Sauerbrunn was a tireless, dependable center back; off it, she was a steady leader who played a key role in collective bargaining negotiations with the U.S. Soccer, representing her fellow players at the table year after year, and helping the team achieve equal pay.She was always calm and composed, even when somebody made a mistake. “Becky doesn’t get mad often, but if you mess up, like pass to the wrong player… she’ll give you this look,” Biyendolo said after Tuesday’s match. “That ‘I’m not mad, I’m just disappointed’ look. That’s the Becky look.”Ask anyone who played alongside Sauerbrunn about the “Becky stare,” and they’ll know exactly what you’re talking about.Hayes didn’t get the chance to coach Sauerbrunn — she took over the team in May last year — but her admiration also runs deep, especially for how the defender has shaped the next generation.“It’s always nice when the people you leave behind talk about someone in such a way,” Hayes said. “I’ve got a locker room — not just the senior players, but less experienced players — that talk about her in the highest esteem, both as a leader and as a human being, and I don’t think you could want anything more than that in life.”(Top photo: Bill Barrett / Getty Images)

ST PAUL, MINNESOTA - MAY 31: Naomi Girma #4 of the United States advances the ball during the second half against China PR during an international friendly at Allianz Field on May 31, 2025 in St Paul, Minnesota. (Photo by Brace Hemmelgarn/USSF/Getty Images)

The USWNT basks in the return of Naomi Girma – their ‘security blanket’

By Jeff Rueter June 1, 2025

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Compared to the past few windows, Saturday’s 3-0 win over China was a game where the U.S. women’s national team looked in complete control.The attack kept the pressure on China at Allianz Field in St. Paul, Minnesota, continuing to threaten their defense as it frequently adjusted the height of its line of confrontation. Catarina Macario provided a goal and an assist; Lindsey Heaps and Sam Coffey scored from their midfield roles.However, head coach Emma Hayes’ post-match press conference started with a question about the long-awaited return of Naomi Girma and how the team benefited from her 90-minute shift.“We’ve missed her, we really have,” Hayes said. “Just in terms of the way we control the game; her, in a deeper space, just making decisions when to play forward, when not to.”As the first million-dollar transfer in women’s soccer history, this year has only intensified the scrutiny that comes with being one of the world’s best players in her position. Her time at Chelsea was not as smooth as the club and player had hoped. She exited her debut in early March with a calf injury, feeling the strain having gone nearly four months without playing a club match. Her first minutes back with Chelsea came in mid-April and this international window marked her first with the U.S. in 2025.“I gave her a hug after the game,” said midfielder Coffey, who scored her second U.S. goal against China. “Having her on the field is like having a security blanket, and just like being wrapped in it.”

Girma celebrates with Coffey and Heaps (Robin Alam/ISI Photos/Getty Images)

After some tense and at times disjointed performances against Japan in the SheBelieves Cup and Brazil in a pair of friendlies, the USWNT dominated the entire match on Saturday. The defense played its part, with Coffey shuttling around to shield the back-line and the partnership between Girma and Emily Sonnett giving goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce ample coverage whenever China reached the final third.Those threats were few and far between. The USWNT dominated the chance-creation game, generating 3.01 expected goals (xG) while holding China to 0.18 xG.“It does feel natural now,” Girma said of returning to the national team. “I mean, I was able to watch what we did before, and I think a lot of what Emma wants to do is layer on what we had done in the past year. I think the changes are good and easy for me to kind of adapt to, with that base knowledge of how we want to play.“It was just nice to be back on the field.”As was often the case during the triumphant run to Olympic gold last summer, Girma was at the heart of the team’s build-up. She logged a staggering 138 touches, per TruMedia, 41 more than the team’s second-most involved player (Avery Patterson, with the right-back notching 97 touches). Girma completed 95.3 percent of her 129 pass attempts, helping determine how the USWNT worked to break through China’s defensive structure.She also put in a defensive shift that embodied working smarter, not harder.She was not throwing herself into many challenges, though much of that work was done well before the ball even reached the U.S. defense. Still, she was quick on mop up duty, leading the USWNT with seven ball clearances (nobody else had more than three) while winning all three ground duels and her only aerial duel.

Girma listens to instructions from Hayes (Brad Smith/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images for USSF)

Having her in the back-line only helped the midfield feel more confident as they engaged defensively, with peace of mind that she was in position if they failed to win the ball.“I can’t put into words what she means to this team,” Coffey said. “I think everybody sees it on the field, but off the field as well. She’s just a joy in this environment and such a light for us. We have missed her so much. I thought she was exceptional today, as she always is.”In a year characterized by frequent rotation across Hayes’ squads and lineups, Girma’s return represents a different type of variable for the team. Throughout 2025, Hayes has called on a number of center-backs, each auditioning to be Girma’s primary partner. Sonnett represents a vital holdover from the team’s last World Cup win in 2019, having established herself as a hard-nosed veteran along the back-line. Emily Sams came off the bench against China, while Tara McKeown has earned five caps this year.The latter two in particular are emblematic of Hayes’ examination of her broader player pool, with both stepping into more important roles given positional absences. Not only has Girma been missing, but so has her partner last summer, Tierna Davidson, who tore her ACL in April.While Sams, McKeown, Sonnett and others have stepped into their roles, none can quite match the same comfortable benchmark established by Girma.

“I mean, she’s a world-class player,” Hayes said. “I thought she brought something to our performance that we’re looking for, so I’m delighted to have her back.”

Girma playing for Chelsea against Manchester United in the FA Cup final (Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Once she returned to playing regular minutes for Chelsea in mid-April, she was eased back into the fold. While Chelsea kept clean sheets in each of her final four performances of the WSL season, only two of those matches saw Girma play all 90 minutes.“It was a lot of transition for me,” Girma said on Friday regarding her first months with Chelsea. “I think it was a huge learning experience for me. You always have those moments in your career where you’re up and down, up and down, up and down, so it was definitely like that.“But I think it was a good five months of getting settled, getting to know my team-mates, getting used to playing there, playing with a new team, and living in a new country. So it’s been really positive so far, and I’ve really enjoyed it.”Girma logged her 46th cap, an impressive total for a 24-year-old defender who seems destined to be the bedrock of this team for years to come. With its world class center-back in the lineup, the United States put together its most composed performance of the year. Then again, that revelation hardly comes as a surprise given Girma’s floor-raising performances since her debut in 2022.

TAFC: The start of a PSG dynasty, MLS clubs mix with the big boys, and a Neymar nightmare

Paris Saint-Germain's Brazilian defender #05 Marquinhos (C) and teammates celebrate with supporters during a ceremony to present the trophy a day after Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) football club won the UEFA Champions League, at the Parc des Princes Stadium in Paris on June 1, 2025. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / POOL / AFP) (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

By Phil Hay The Athletic June 2, 2025

Hello! Paris Saint-Germain are champions of Europe. Was it simply their night — or is this the start of something bigger?

On the way:

PSG’s dynasty potential
$10m bonanza for LAFC
MLS surge in Forbes rich list
Neymar’s handball red card

It May Be The Start Of A Dynasty

(Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

But, as ever, mixed emotions at PSG victory…

Two thoughts occurred as Paris Saint-Germain went 2-0 up after 20 minutes of Saturday’s Champions League final.

Number one was that it felt like we had the most savage result incoming from this fixture since Milan dismembered Johan Cruyff’s Barcelona in 1994. European Cups aren’t won like this — and we’ve never seen a defeat as wide as Inter’s eventual 5-0 thrashing in Munich.Number two was that PSG were fresh as wet paint, in comparison to Inter’s deadweight legs, as if the Italians were going to the well once too often. You’d be forgiven for thinking PSG had been on the beach for weeks — and to a certain extent, they had.Earlier in the tournament, Luis Enrique, the PSG head coach, joked about Ligue 1 being “the league of farmers”, a slur used to criticise the perceived lack of competition in France (where, it should be said, his club have been insanely dominant for years). Beating the best that Europe had to offer in the Champions League was a neat riposte.But at the same time, PSG wrapped up their latest Ligue 1 championship two months ago. That allowed them to tailor everything for Europe, while Inter toiled on numerous fronts, including a Serie A title race which went to the wire. What transpired was a total mismatch. Inter’s fabled defence was vaporised.

PSG’s domestic environment works for them. They’ve also created a phenomenally talented team, whose third goal against Inter was a coup de grace and a masterpiece. Not everybody will rejoice in their breakthrough year. There’s no getting away from the nature of the Qatari money which is fuelling them. But you have to ask: is this the start of a dynasty? Because their first European Cup won’t be their last, surely.

For Luis Enrique, for Xana

(Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

For Luis Enrique, Saturday was deeply personal. The death of his daughter, Xana, in 2019 formed a large part of the narrative in the build-up to the final. He wore a T-shirt in tribute to her after full time, and PSG’s ultras unveiled a huge tifo flag honouring them both (above).In purely coaching terms, he’s made PSG make sense. Finally crossing the Champions League rubicon is a demonstration of how a quality collective team can be greater than the sum of expensive individual parts. It’s incredibly telling that Lionel Messi, Neymar and Kylian Mbappe haven’t been missed. And there’ll be no temptation whatsoever for PSG to return to that superstar-led model.Inter’s outlook from here is more sobering. They’re an older unit than PSG, and less sustainable. They might also lose head coach Simone Inzaghi, who is perfect for them but has Al Hilal trying to tempt him to Saudi Arabia. How much does he have left after a second Champions League final defeat in three years, this one so much more brutal than the 1-0 loss to Manchester City in 2023?

The darker side to PSG’s triumph

(Lou Benoist/AFP via Getty Images)

Sadly, full time in Germany was the catalyst for widespread civil disorder in France, with celebrations in Paris descending into violence. Police reported two deaths, close to 200 injuries and 500 arrests during intense rioting. Water cannon and tear gas were deployed. France’s interior minister, Bruno Retailleau, was choice with his language, saying: “Barbarians have taken to the streets of Paris.”

Tom Williams was in France for The Athletic and covered two nights of trouble on the streets. It cut a depressing denouement to an occasion PSG craved for so long — and thought might never come.

News Round-Up

There’s a whole load of transfer biz from the weekend. First up, Liverpool have made a £110million ($149m) bid for the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz. We’re waiting to see how it landed. It would smash their transfer record (above).
The Premier League champions could recoup £18m by selling goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher to Brentford. A bid has been accepted. Brentford, in turn, are allowing existing first choice Mark Flekken to join Leverkusen for £8.4m. It’s one big roundabout.
Manchester United’s deal to bring Matheus Cunha in from Wolverhampton Wanderers is sealed. He’s signed a five-year contract. Jeremie Frimpong from Leverkusen to Liverpool has also been finalised.
Liam Delap has been pencilled in for a Chelsea medical today. His £30m switch from Ipswich Town is as good as done.
A big change at Serie A club Atalanta. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has stepped down after nine years in charge. They’ve been revolutionised in that time, and it’s a plum European vacancy.
49ers Enterprises, the group which owns Leeds United, is now in control of a majority stake in Scottish club Rangers. A takeover had been on the cards for a few months.
Wolves might be about to get raided for a second time. Manchester City have the hots for full-back Rayan Ait Nouri. In other City news, ex-Liverpool assistant Pep Lijnders is joining Pep Guardiola’s coaching staff.
We recently covered the deal done by Disney+ to broadcast Women’s Champions League games in Europe. The U.S. rights have gone to CBS, through 2030.

Who’s Got Club World Cup Fever?!

Denis Bouanga scores for LAFC vs America (Luke Hales/Getty Images)

Three MLS teams made it. Who will do best?

Ticket sales for the Club World Cup are more pedestrian than FIFA would like — hence why it keeps dropping prices — but Saturday night’s play-in between Los Angeles FC and Club America sold out at a canter. Perhaps an actual ante helped.It was win-at-all-costs and LAFC did, despite the game looking lost. An equaliser in the penultimate minute and an extra-time decider from Denis Bouanga mean FIFA’s 32-team mash-up is complete, with LAFC nicking the final place. They’ll be a minimum of $10m richer for it.

Three Major League Soccer sides have qualified (cough, cough) for the Club World Cup: LAFC, Seattle Sounders and FIFA charity case, Inter Miami. I’ve been thinking about which of those sides has the best chance of progressing beyond the group stage — to which the answer can only be Miami, from a section featuring Brazil’s Palmeiras, Portugal’s Porto and Egypt’s Al Ahly.The variable in the United States is going to be squad strength, and how heavily the favourites commit at the end of hard seasons. Judging by Real Madrid paying £8.3m to get Trent Alexander-Arnold there, commitment levels will be high. But LAFC are in before the lock and they’ve landed on their feet in Group D. Not a doddle, but not beyond them.

Last night, before their MLS clash with Minnesota United, the Sounders’ squad wore T-shirts protesting the collective bargaining agreement which is limiting the amount they can earn from the Club World Cup. The labour union is backing their complaints.

MLS Mix With The Big Boys

Rubbing shoulders with the great, the good and those who are neither isn’t going to dent LAFC’s status — or their value. Forbes published its football rich list over the weekend, and LAFC popped up in 15th place, with a tasty $1.25bn price tag.

MLS franchises en masse are going well. Inter Miami ($1.2bn) and LA Galaxy ($1bn) also made the top 20, and a further five teams — Atlanta United, New York City FC, Austin FC, the Sounders and D.C. United — are in a top 30 which features only two clubs from Germany and one from France (you know who).

It’s a little counter-intuitive because revenues and TV earnings in MLS are nowhere near European levels — but the competition has the appeal of salary caps, the absence of relegation and less red tape around the building of stadiums and brands. Plus, if a circus act like Manchester United are the second most valuable team in the universe ($6.6bn, by Forbes’ calculations) then it’s best if Europe doesn’t throw stones.

Around TAFC

(Mohd Rasfan/AFP via Getty Images)

You’ll enjoy Laurie Whitwell’s round-up of Manchester United’s post-season tour of the Far East. A comical bus ride, players giving fans the fingers, defeat to a line-up of footballers you’ve never heard of… all in all, a roaring success.
Yesterday’s Concacaf Champions Cup final had us sucking the air through our teeth. Vancouver Whitecaps were 4-0 down by half-time and lost 5-0 to Cruz Azul. The Mexicans are seven-times winners and they’ve got this competition licked.
Johnny Heitinga is the new coach of Ajax after leaving his role as Arne Slot’s assistant at Liverpool. It’s the dream job for a man who turned pro at Ajax in the early 2000s. James Pearce and Gregg Evans have the lowdown on what to expect from him.
Retro football kits are a burgeoning industry. Now the industry is branching out into the restoration of old shirts, by repairing badges, numbers and sponsor logos. Elias Burke reports.
Quiz answer: the three clubs who have reached Champions League, or European Cup, finals without ever winning one are: Atletico Madrid (1974, 2014 and 2016), Valencia (2000 and 2001) and Reims (1956 and 1959).
Most clicked in Friday’s TAFC: Wrexham’s taste for Premier League transfers.

And Finally…

(YouTube/Fanatiz)

The only mentions of Neymar in Europe over the weekend were in reference to how much better off PSG are without him. But you didn’t think he’d keep out of the public eye for long, did you?Down in Brazil, 24 hours later, he was sent off during Santos’ 1-0 defeat to Botafogo, his punishment for the aberration you’re seeing above. It could prove to be his last appearance for Santos — his deal is about to expire — and he was evidently hell-bent on scoring just in case.As brazen handballs go, it’s a classic of the genre. With good grace (or no alternative), he apologised for it later.(Top photo: Franck Fife/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)

STUTTGART, GERMANY - JUNE 05: Lamine Yamal of Spain celebrates after scoring their side's fifth goal during the UEFA Nations League 2025 semifinal match between Spain and France at Stuttgart Arena on June 05, 2025 in Stuttgart, Germany. (Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images)

Lamine Yamal and the curious finish that shows why he is different

Stuart James The Athletic – June 6, 2025Updated 5:40 am EDT

Lamine Yamal again. Adrien Rabiot again. Left-footed goals again.On a wild night in Stuttgart, where Spain and France played a game of basketball on a football pitch, the storyline had a familiar narrative running through it in more ways than one.It was 331 days ago when Yamal scored that goal against France in the European Championship semi-finals, his left foot sumptuously curling the ball into the top corner from 25 yards out, leaving Rabiot wishing he had not only got across quicker to try to block the shot, but that he had also chosen his words much more carefully the night before the game“If you want to play at a Euro final, you need to do more than he has done up until now,” the France midfielder said about Yamal, who was 16 years old at the time.

“Move in silence, only speak when it’s time to say checkmate,” Yamal replied on Instagram.Yamal posted again after scoring his wonder goal against France: “Checkmate”.What You Should Read NextPerfection, by Lamine YamalAs time travelled with the ball from out to inside the post, it opened a portal through which Yamal’s immense potential could be glimpsed

Eleven months later, it was Rabiot who scythed down Yamal from behind for a penalty that the 17-year-old calmly converted.

What is it with teenagers constantly wanting to have the last word, eh?

Except Yamal wasn’t quite finished. His second goal against France, 13 minutes later, put Spain 4-1 up and made him the standout candidate for the player-of-the-match award.

But it was a curious and highly unusual finish — well, unusual for anyone else, but maybe not for Yamal.

Some data first. In competitive games for club and country at senior level, Yamal has scored 31 goals and 29 of them have been with his left foot. His right foot isn’t, to borrow that old cliche, just for standing on. But it’s fair to say that he doesn’t use it much, which is why Philipp Lahm said what he did when telling The Athletic in April how he would try to mark Yamal.

“He has to be on his weaker foot at all times. He cannot have any space,” Lahm, the former Germany international, said.

One of Yamal’s two weaker-foot goals came in Barcelona’s 4-0 victory at the Bernabeu in October, after which he joked: “Real Madrid’s players didn’t know that I have a right foot too! I had to use it when needed.”

It looked like it would also be required against France in the UEFA Nations League semi-final on Thursday night, when Yamal broke into the penalty area in the second half after running onto a first-time pass from Pedro Porro. Holding off a challenge from France centre-back Clement Lenglet — Yamal’s wiry frame is deceptively strong — and with the angle against him, he somehow managed to slip the ball past goalkeeper Mike Maignan.

From a vantage point high up on the opposite side of the stadium — in other words, a long way from the goal — the first instinct was that Yamal had scored with his right foot, primarily because that was how it looked in the blink of an eye.

Indeed, that was still the assumption when a slow-motion replay started to be shown on the screen, partly because of the position of the ball, but also the fact Lenglet was on the inside of Yamal rather than the outside. By going with his left foot, Yamal surely risked the shot being blocked.

At least that was the theory.

Yamal had other ideas and instead of taking the more conventional route and shooting with his right, he prodded the ball beyond Maignan with his left.

It appeared as though the ball was almost pushed, which is why the soleplate of his boot is visible afterwards — Yamal has to work so hard to get enough purchase on the ball to send it past Maignan using this technique that his leg ends up horizontal after making contact.

It looks strange when you watch it back, but it was hugely effective and perhaps also goes some way to explaining why Maignan seemed to be caught slightly off guard and beaten in a way that you wouldn’t expect him to be in that scenario.In fact, the France goalkeeper ended up diving after the ball was already past him, which suggests that Yamal had taken him by surprise with such an unorthodox and instinctive finish.

It is also — and this is an area of his game where he is so different from his former Barcelona team-mate Ousmane Dembele, who genuinely has no idea which is his stronger foot — an example of how Yamal doesn’t suffer at all from being so dependent on his left.Why?First things first, his left foot is obviously a thing of beauty, whether passing, shooting or dribbling. There was a moment late in the France game, which Spain won 5-4, when Yamal was performing pirouettes in the centre of the pitch, the ball glued to his left foot to such an extent that the opposition left-back, Theo Hernandez, decided to change sport. Cue a rugby tackle.

Secondly, Yamal is able to improvise and use his left foot in so many different ways, including the ‘trivela’ — an outside-of-the-boot shot or pass that he executes brilliantly over a range of distances. Yamal uses that part of his foot with such precision that his technique doesn’t just negate the need to use his right, but at times it’s actually more efficient to play the ball with the outside of his left because it’s naturally in his stride pattern.What You Should Read NextLamine Yamal’s trademark trivela: Dissecting the Barcelona star’s work of artYamal is fast making the outside-of-the-boot pass known as the trivela his trademark. Where does it come from and how does he do it?

The mind wanders to other predominantly one-footed players, from Diego Maradona to Arjen Robben and Ricardo Quaresma.Ultimately, though, Yamal is one of a kind or, as the former Inter head coach Simone Inzaghi recently put it, “one of those talents that appear once every 50 years”.Against France, on his 20th cap for Spain, Yamal upstaged Dembele, one of his rivals for the Ballon d’Or, and Kylian Mbappe and Desire Doue, too.Next up for him is Cristiano Ronaldo when Spain take on Portugal in the UEFA Nations League final in Munich on Sunday.Ronaldo, for context, was another six months away from playing his first international match at Yamal’s age.(Top photo: James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images)

MLS’ Whitecaps suffer teamwide illness after Champions Cup final in Mexico

The Vancouver Whitecaps lose in the Concacaf Champions Cup final

By Paul Tenorio and Sarah Jean Maher June 5, 2025Updated 7:39 pm EDT

The Vancouver Whitecaps say a “significant number” of players and staff members fell ill with gastrointestinal symptoms following the team’s 5-0 loss to Cruz Azul in the Concacaf Champions Cup final on Saturday.At least 33 members of the traveling party were affected, a source familiar with the situation told The Athletic. The source requested anonymity due to the medical sensitivity of the situation. Only seven out of the 26 players who traveled did not present with any symptoms.The club canceled a training session on Wednesday out of precaution and instead held a modified individual closed session on Thursday.In a statement released Thursday afternoon, the Major League Soccer team said it was working closely with its medical team, local infectious disease consultants and Vancouver Coastal Health to monitor the outbreak. The club said each affected player has been provided with an individualized program by medical and performance staff to support their recovery and continued preparation.“The health and well-being of our players and staff remain our top priority,” the club said in its statement. “We are actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.”

The timing of the outbreak raises significant concerns about the Whitecaps’ ability to field a competitive roster for their scheduled match against their regional rivals, the Seattle Sounders, on Sunday in Seattle. The club has not yet announced whether the game will proceed as planned or if it will seek a postponement from MLS.What You Should Read NextCruz Azul dismantles MLS’s Whitecaps to claim Concacaf Champions Cup titleThis was never a contest, as La Maquina claimed a record-tying seventh Concacaf club title in emphatic fashion.

The situation is further complicated by the fact that nine Whitecaps players were already scheduled to miss Sunday’s game due to international duty. Canadian national team players Ali Ahmed, Sam Adekugbe and Jayden Nelson are among those training with the men’s national team ahead of the inaugural Canadian Shield tournament, per The Canadian Press.

The teamwide illness caps a disappointing week for the Whitecaps, who saw their impressive 15-game unbeaten streak across all competitions come to a crushing end with a resounding 5-0 defeat to Cruz Azul in Saturday’s Champions Cup final. Vancouver had been hoping to capture its first major continental trophy.

Cruz Azul’s dominant victory not only denied Vancouver the Champions Cup, but the trip created additional health challenges that could impact the team’s domestic campaign.

(Top photo: Kirby Lee / Imagn Images)

Curiosity and a new challenge drew former Bayern Munich Women’s coach to Angel City

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 04: Alex Straus, head coach of Angel City FC, speaks to media at Angel City Football Club Performance Center on June 04, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Melina Pizano/Getty Images)

By Asli PelitJune 5, 2025Updated 6:50 pm EDT

Alexander Straus, Angel City’s new head coach, didn’t arrive in Los Angeles on a whim. After turning down several chances to move to the U.S. in the past, he says this time, the stars aligned.

“Compared to other opportunities I’ve had, including the location, everything about this club, this team, which has been well documented all over the world in the media, intrigues me,” Straus told reporters on Thursday. “I think there is still a lot of work to be done, but it’s not done over 24 hours or one week or three weeks.”

While leaving Europe wasn’t easy, Straus emphasized that curiosity and challenge played a major role.

“It’s a completely different culture. A different league. But football is a small world,” he said. “There’s this weird gap in understanding between Europe and the U.S. We don’t really know how good the best teams are on either side. I needed to find out. I’m halfway through my career, and I didn’t want to wait until I have grandchildren to take that leap.”Straus comes to Los Angeles after three years coaching German powerhouse Bayern Munich. He led the team to three consecutive Frauen-Bundesliga titles from 2022 to 2025. Before joining Bayern, the 49-year-old Norwegian coached SK Brann in the top flight of his native Norway, winning the league twice.The hiring marks a significant shift for the ambitious Los Angeles club, which is counting on his UEFA Champions League experience and understandingof youth development to steer an Angel City team that struggles with inconsistency.If you ask him, there’s no question Angel City will find success.“Whether it’s in one year or five, I don’t know, but it will happen. Everything around this club says it will,” Straus said. “I want to be part of that.”The move isn’t just professional for Straus. California, with its weather and culture, was a draw, but so was the promise of a project where the women’s team isn’t playing second fiddle. And Angel City worked really hard to convince him to join.“In Europe, even with clubs like Bayern or Chelsea, there’s still a men’s team getting the lion’s share. Here, at Angel City, we are the team. That’s rare,” he said. “The facilities, the focus, the fan base, it’s a powerful setup. That’s something America has ahead of Europe right now.”The team has already made a signing that feels aligned with Straus’ leadership. Last month, Angel City signed former Wolfsburg forward Sveindís Jónsdóttir, who was used to seeing Staus on the opposite touchline in the Frauen-Bundesliga.“I’d already been talking to Angel City, and I was trying to decide what I wanted to do, and then I saw that he’s gonna be the coach, and it made me more excited about Angel City, knowing how well he’s done for Bayern,” Jónsdóttir told The Athletic ahead of her signing. “I know his style of play. He can make every team look good and play well. It made my choice even easier.”

Angel City signing Sveindís Jónsdóttir saw Alex Straus’ success playing against his teams in Germany. (Martin Rose / Getty Images)

Though there may be an understanding gap between Europe and the U.S., according to Straus, the difference between domestic and international players isn’t a factor in his coaching.“It’s not about where they’re from, it’s about the environment they’re coming into,” he said. “We often overstate the difference between American and European (soccer). The structure is different. There is a wage cap. It’s a playoff league. But ultimately, it’s about creating a good environment for good players.”Still, the transition won’t be instant. Straus acknowledges that he has to build that environment in L.A.“It’s early days. I’m still the new guy in class,” he said jokingly. “We’re just starting to create the culture, the behaviors, the habits that we want.”Strauss arrived in LA last Sunday, and this weekend will mark his first with the full squad, with many players away on national team duty last week. He’s had time to get acquainted with the team during the last few months through hours of videos on Angel City’s games over the last couple of years. But he isn’t in a rush.“First of all, you need to know people, not the players,” he said. “The players I knew long before I came. I need to know the people and I need to know what makes them tick.”Backed by one of the NWSL’s most powerful ownership groups led by Willow Bay, Bob Iger, Julie Uhrman and Kara Nortman, Angel City is the league’s most valuable club and a sponsor favorite, thanks to steady attendance and good brand awareness. But despite its off-field dominance, the club now finds itself at a critical crossroads; it’s time to deliver results on the pitch.I wanted to see what we can do to get the legacy of Angel City to become like the other big sports brands in the city, to become the same here,” Straus said. “That excites me.”

(Top photo: Melina Pizano / Getty Images)

5/2/25 Champs League Semis Tues/Wed spectacular on CBS, Indy 11 home Sat, Messi & Miami lose cup game to Vancouver

May 2, 2025May 6, 2025 gatorbest ac-milan, arsenal, barcelona, carmel-fc, carmel-fc-soccer-club, carmel-goalkeeping, champions-league, epl, europa-league, indy-11, messi, mls, premier-league, pulisic, soccer, soccer-on-tv, soccer-tv-schedule, us-soccer, usmnt

Captain America did it again as his goal vs Inter Milan help AC Milan advance to the Coppa Italia final at the Stadio Olimpico on May 14 where a win would insure a Europa League spot during this disappointing 9th place season. Word is he’ll sign on till 2029 with a new contract and a hefty raise soon. Chris Richards anchored the 3 man defense for Crystal Palace in 3-0 thumping of Aston Villa Highlights in their FA Cup Semi and will face Man City in the FA Cup Finals at Wembley Sat, May 17 with a Champions League spot on the line. Both American’s play Monday. Awesome Call on Wrexham Final Goal as they become 1st team to win back to back to back promotions. Also cool to see Eric Dick a former Carmel High, CDC, & Butler Goalkeeper will be on TV Wed night on CBS Sports Network as his Pittsburgh Riverhounds host MLS NYCFC at 7 pm in US Open Cup play. Sunday we get NWSL action Gotham FC vs Chicago Stars on CBS at 1 pm. Oh and Good Luck everyone playing in the Challenge Cup this weekend at Grand Park – I will be reffing all day Saturday on F12.

Champions League Tues/Wed, Europa Thurs

Wow do I love Champions League football – no my favorite teams are not alive, and there are no American’s in this year’s final 4 – but the excitement of the World’s Top Club competition is exhilarating! Arsenal is down 1-0 to PSG on the way to Paris Wed, while Barcelona and 17 year old Messi like Yamal will host Inter Milan Wed on Para+ after a spectacular 3-3 tie highlights in Milan on Wed. In Europa action the 3 English teams rolled at home looks to be an all English final with a Champions League spot on the line, while the lone American still playing Johnny Cordosa & Real Bettis take a 2-1 lead to Fiorentina. (see some fantastic saves in both Competitions in the GK section below) Buckle up this week folks – gonna be a doozy Tues/Wed.

Tues Champions League

Inter Milan vs Barcelona (3-3) on Para+, Univision
Wed Champions League
PSG vs Arsenal (1-0) on CBS & Para+ 3 pm
Thurs 3 pm Europa League on Para+
Man United vs Athletic Club
Bode vs Tottenham CBSSN
Djurgarden vs Chelsea
Fiorentina vs Real Bettis (Cordosa) (1-2)

MLS Miami falls to Vancouver in Champions Cup to face Mexico’s Cruz Azul in Final

Its was prime time MLS viewing on Wed night as Miami and Messi returned home down 2-0 to the hottest team in MLS the Vancouver Whitecaps. After scoring early everyone of course assumed Miami would come back like always and close out the series – everyone but Vancouver. Behind goals from Brian White and Sebatian Berhalter (yes GB’s son) the Caps – capped Miami 3-1 to win 5-1 on aggregate setting up the final with Mexico’s Cruz Azul on June 1st. On TV Sat struggling Atlanta will host Nashville winners of 2 straight at 2:45 pm on Fox, while you can check out San Diego’s new stadium vs Dallas at 9:15 on FS1 Sat. Meanwhile word is Man City’s Kevin DeBruyne is in talks with Chicago Fire while Paul Pogba seems to be leaning away from DC United.

Indy 11 home vs Detroit City 7 pm Mental Health Awareness Night on TV8.

The Indy Eleven made its USL Jägermeister Cup debut in impressive fashion with a 4-0 victory at Forward Madison FC to take an early lead in the Group 3 standings with three points, followed by One Knoxville SC with two. Those two teams will meet on May 24 at Knoxville in the second of four Group Stage games.
Join us for a meaningful and impactful evening as Indy Eleven hosts Mental Health Awareness Night—a special event dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and supporting mental health initiatives in our community. Together, we’ll shine a light on the importance of mental well-being while the Boys in Blue take on Detroit City FC on the field. Discounted Tickets: For the first 500 fans, tickets start at just $12 exclusively via This Link! They play at the Philly Union Wed night May 7th in US Open Cup on Paramount+.

Congrats to the Carmel FC 2009 Boys Blue & Coaches for win at Terre Haute Tourney!

June 16th: 9-4 / June 17th: 8-3 12383 Cyntheanne Rd, Fishers, IN $595 Register

TV Games

Fr, May 2

2:45 pm Para+ Torino vs Venzia (Busio)

3 pm Peacock Man City vs Wolverhampton

8 pm Amazon Prime Washington Spirit vcs ACFC NWSL

10:30 pm Gola, Para Seattle vs KC NWSL

Sat, May 3

7:30 am USA Villa vs Fulham (Robinson)

10 am Peaccok Everton vs Ipswich Town

12:30 pm NBC Arsenal vs Bournmouth (Tyler Adams)

2:45 pm Golazo, Para Inter Milan vs Hellas Verona

3 pm ESPN+ Barcelona vs Real Valladolid

2:45 pm Fox Atlanta United vs Nashville SC MLS

7:30 pm Ion Portland Thorns vs Orlando Pride (Marta) NWSL

7:30 pm TV? Indy 11 vs Detroit City @ the Mike

9 pm FS1 San Diego vs Dallas MLS

10 pm Ion Utah Royals vs NC Courage NWSL

Sun, May 4

10 am CBSSN Monza vs Atalanta

11:30 pm Peacock Chelsea vs Liverpool

1 pm CBS Gothan FC vs Chicago Stars (Naher) NWSL

2:45 pm Para+, Juventus (Mckinney, Weah) vs Bologna

7 pm Apple TV Sporting KC vs LA Galaxy

8 pm Golazo, Para+ San Diego Wave vs Bay City NWSL

Mon, May 5

2:45 pm Para+, FoxD Genoa vs AC Milan (Pulisic)

3 pm USA Crystal Palace (Richards) vs Nottingham Forest

Tues, May 6 Champions League

3 pm CBS, Uni Inter Milan vs Barcelona

Weds, May 7 Champions League

3 pm CBS, Par+ PSG (1-0) vs Arsenal

7 pm CBSSN Pittsburgh Riverhounds (Dick) vs NYC USL

7:30 pm Para+ Philly Union vs Indy 11 US Open Cup

Thurs, May 8 Europa

3 pm CBSSN Bodo vs Tottenham

3 pm Para+, Uni Man United vs Athletic Club

3 pm para+ Real Bettis (Cordosa) vs Fiorentina

3 pm para+ Chelsea vs Djurgarden

Sat, May 17

ESPN+? Crystal Palace (Richards) vs Man City FA Cup Final
Wed, May 21

Paramount Plus Europa League Final in Balboa, Spain

Wed, May 28

Paramount Plus Europa Conference League Final in Poland

Sat, May 31

CBS 3 pm UEFA Champions League Final in Munich, Germany

5 pm TBS US Women vs China

Sun, June 1

Fox Sport 1 Cruz Azul vs Vancouver Whitecaps CC Champions Cup Final

Tues, June 3

TNT, Max, Peacock US Women vs Jamaica

Wed, June 4

2:45 pm Fox Germany vs Portugal – Nations League Semi

Thurs, June 5

2:45 pm Fox Spain vs France– Nations League Semi

Sat, June 7

3:30 pm TNT, Tele US Men vs Turkey

Sun, June 8

2:45 pm Fox Nations League Finals

Tues, June 10

8 pm TNT, Peacock US Men vs Switzerland

June 13 – 29 GOLD CUP MEN

Sun, June 15

6 pm FS1 US Men vs Trinidad Gold Cup

Thur, June 19

6 pm FS1 US Men vs KSA Gold Cup

Sun, June 22

7 pm FS1 US Men vs Haiti Gold Cup

Sun, June 26

TBS, Peacock US Women vs Ireland

Sun, June 29^th

TNT, Peacock US Women vs Ireland in Cincy

USA

Opinion: Bruce Arena and the weary take of staggering frailty on Mauricio Pochettino’s nationality
Christian Pulisic hits consecutive double-digit scoring seasons in 2-0 win over Venezia
Christian Pulisic’s decade-long European streak still alive as AC Milan advance to Coppa Italia final
USMNT weekend highlights: Puli goal, Luna brace, Sargent TOTS
SSFC Spotlight: Alex Freeman lighting up MLS
Poch will only select ‘right characters’ for USMNT
Marsch banned 2 games after red card vs. USMNT

Netflix to release “The 99ers” film on 1999 USWNT World Cup triumph
Atlanta a likely host for 2031 Women’s World Cup hints FIFA president Gianni Infantino
USWNT and Angel City FC superstar: A brief analysis on Alyssa Thompson
FIFA-funded study to begin research into possible menstrual cycle link to women’s knee injurie

American Forward Josh Sergant was elected to the Best 11 for the Championship this season

Champions League

Breaking down European semifinals: Arsenal vs. PSG, Barcelona vs. Inter predictions
Barça, Inter, Yamal deliver perfect Champions League night
How Yamal’s first 100 games compare to other phenoms’: Messi, Ronaldo, Mbappé
Inzaghi: Phenoms like Yamal ‘born every 50 years’
Thuram and Dumfries fuel return of ‘real Inter’
Sources: Barça’s Kounde to miss Inter 2nd leg
Barça battle back for draw in goalfest with Inter
Inter’s Martínez plays down Yamal-Messi links
PSG’s Dembélé shows Arsenal what they’re missing: a clinical forward
Arteta: Arsenal need ‘something special’ in Paris
The fatal errors that cost Arsenal against PSG
On a day when Messi and Ronaldo faded, Lamine Yamal filled the void

Europa League continues to offer Man United a lifeline for this season
Wins put Man Utd, Spurs on brink of unlikely final
Tottenham’s confusing season could still end with Europa League glory
How Premier League teams can qualify for Champions League, Europe this season
The secret behind Arctic Circle club Bodo/Glimt’s red-hot Europa League run
Where are the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League finals?

MLS

Inter Miami and an aging Messi ousted from CONCACAF Champions Cup
Lionel Messi continues to set attendance records during 2025 — here’s the full list
BREAKING: Club América and LAFC set to play Club World Cup playoff; Infantino ‘confirms’ FIFA plan
Inter Miami has little to show for Messi and its star-studded roster
Sources: Pogba eyeing Europe despite D.C. talks
Cruz Azul dispatch Tigres to reach the CONCACAF Champions Cup FinalOneFootball

EPL

Taking Palace to FA Cup final, Eze looks ready for next step
Chris Richards

World

Men’s soccer rivalries to know: El Clásico, Manchester Derby
Antonio Rüdiger could serve up to a 12-match ban after red card in Copa del Rey final
Cristiano Ronaldo fights back tears as Al-Nassr set to end season without a trophy

OFFICIAL: Jamie Vardy announces he’s leaving Leicester City after 13 seasons

NWSL & World

If parity is NWSL’s ‘superpower’ vs. Europe competition, is expansion its kryptonite?
Last-place Chicago Stars fire coach Donaldson
NWSL seeks to launch second division in 2026
NWSL MVP Tracker: Thompson leads USWNT in ranking, but other internationals dominate
How ruthless Chelsea romped to a sixth consecutive WSL title
Chelsea left ‘sad and frustrated’ after UWCL exit
Wrexham women lose cup final but take another step forward

Indy 11

Indy Eleven at MLS Philadelphia Union in Open Cup
Blake, Amoh Earn USL Jägermeister Cup Team of the Round Honors
Recap-MAD 0:4 IND
Indy Eleven Academy wins 3 National Championships!
Recap-IND 1:3 CHS
Foster repeats on USLC “Team of the Week”

Goalkeeping

Great Saves Donnarumma & Szczesny
Champs League Great Saves Wed
Europa League Semi Final Great Saves
Cortious Saves vs Arsenal last round
Not Cool by Gigi Donnarumma fake falldown on Corner
Goal Kick Technique
How to Throw the Ball Properly

Reffing

Copa del Rey final referee breaks down in tears after Real Madrid TV releases video bashing him
Real Madrid’s running battle with referees: How did it start? When will it end?
Did the VAR slip up with Evanilson’s red card vs. Man United?
Not Cool by Gigi Donnarumma

If this is offsides Soccer has a problem

=====RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ===

Looking for a good warm meal on the way home from practice at River Road or Badger Field? Try out the Best BarBQ in Town right across the street (131st) from Northview Church on the corner of Hazelldell & 131st. RackZ BBQ

Save 20% on your order

(mention the ole ballcoach)

======================RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ======================

This Week in the NWSL
Records Fall and Rookies RiseThis past game weekend was perhaps the most action-packed weekend of the season so far, with dramatic comeback winners, rookie breakthroughs, and lots and lots of goals. Week 6 introduced 8 new goal-scorers to the books, with the NWSL now nearing 500 unique goal scorers in league history. The 40 club is also growing with the Spirit’s Aubrey Kingsbury and Houston’s Jane Campbell becoming the fourth and fifth goalies to have 40 career shutouts in the last two game weekends respectively. Casey Murphy needs one more shutout to add this milestone to her career.

The search for record-breaking continues as Lynn Biyendolo is only one assist away from the most regular season assists in league history. Catch Lynn at home with the Reign as the Current joins them in a high-stakes match, where the Current seeks to extend their league record for consecutive multi-goal games.

NC Courage complete historic stoppage-time comeback to beat undefeated KC Current

The North Carolina Courage delivered the upset of last Saturday night, storming back in the final minutes to stun the 5-0-0 Kansas City Current. This made the Courage the first team since 2017 to score both a game-tying and game-winning goal in the 90th minute or later.
Read More
San Diego Wave’s U-17 players make history

The Wave made history on Saturday night, all coming from their youth. For the first time in NWSL history, three 17-year olds started the same regular season match, and all three were U.S U-17 Youth National Team standouts. Read More
Must Watch: Gotham FC vs. Chicago Stars this Sunday

With Esther González leading the Golden Boot race, she will be a force to be reckoned with, although historically Chicago has the edge in this match up. On the Chicago side, Alyssa Naeher needs one more shutout for her 50 career shutout milestone.

Watch this Sunday on CBS at 1PM ET.
Read More
Esther González scores another brace

Esther González scored a first-half brace shortly after her teammate and rookie Sarah Schupansky scored within 3 minutes of kick off. This proves to be the third brace in her last four matches, making her a forward to fear this season. Read More

USMNT Player Tracker: Pulisic saves Milan (again), Richards gets real, and Paredes setback

By Greg O’Keeffe April 28, 2025 The Athletic

Across the Atlantic this week, the USMNT’s overseas contingent has savored titles (and tangerines) in Scotland and enjoyed the magic of the FA Cup at Wembley. But some things don’t change: once again, Christian Pulisic gave Milan something to cling to. Elsewhere, Johnny Cardoso and Paxten Aaronson turned heads in La Liga and the Eredivisie, but Wolfsburg’s Kevin Parades suffered a blow as he continues his return from a foot injury. Read on as this week’s USMNT Player Tracker brings you all the ups and downs of the players national head coach Mauricio Pochettino will turn to this summer.

Pulisic keeps Milan’s fading hopes alive

Pulisic’s nerves of steel meant Milan clung onto their hopes of Champions League football next season.The USMNT star was unflappable when presented with an early unexpected chance to score against Venezia on Sunday, on what manager Sergio Conceicao said was a small, dry pitch that wasn’t easy for his players.An error from the hosts at the Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo, when they gave the ball away cheaply in their own half, allowed Milan’s Youssouf Fofana to seize possession and play in Pulisic at close range. Of course, the 26-year-old stayed cool and put it in the back of the net, giving the Rossoneri a major boost after just five minutes.That was it for another agonizing 91 minutes, as Milan had to fight against the relegation-battling Venetians before Santiago Gimenez made it 2-0 in stoppage time at the end. Pulisic’s big moment earned him the nod from Milan fans as man of the match, and he also put himself in elite statistical company. According to Opta, the goal meant he is now only one of the three Serie A players to have been directly involved in at least 50 goals (31 goals and 19 assists) in the last two seasons in all competitions, alongside Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman (50) and Lautaro Martinez (54) of Inter. In terms of what it means for his club, they are still eight points away from the Champions League qualifying spots with four league games remaining. It will be a tall order to drag themselves ahead of the teams above them, not least Weston McKennie’s Juventus, who are currently fourth and also won on Sunday. But after springing something of a surprise win over rivals Inter last week to reach the final of the Coppa Italia, then winning in Venice, at least Pulisic and co are developing upward momentum in the closing stages of what remains a below-par season.

Jeff Rueter’s graphic of the weekend

Champ Carter-Vickers sets Rangers record straight

It was an altogether more decisive win for Pulisic’s international team-mates in Scotland on Saturday.

But USMNT defender Cameron Carter-Vickers probably did not envisage spending a few minutes picking tangerines off the field before later celebrating his team being crowned champions. Celtic’s 5-0 thrashing of Dundee United earned the 27-year-old a fourth title medal with Celtic in a game that was interrupted during the first half when Celtic fans threw the fruit onto the field as a protest against their opponents’ ticketing prices for the game. Around the 12-minute mark, the supporters in the away section threw the tangerines and unfurled a banner reading “£njoy th£ fruits of our labour”.

Staff clear tangerines from the Tannardice turf (Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

That aside, it was easy work for Carter-Vickers and his team, who have now won the Scottish top flight 13 times in the past 14 seasons.

Carter-Vickers was a happy man, then, but he disagreed when asked afterwards whether Celtic had to set the record straight in their next game, which happens to be against rivals Rangers, who have dented an otherwise glittering season by beating them twice.

“Yes. I mean, some people might say set the record (straight),” he told the Daily Record. “I wouldn’t personally use that kind of language because for me, it’s not just like one or two games in the season, but the whole 38.“And I think we’ve shown over the 38 games that we are the best team. But, yeah, we definitely want to win the game next weekend and put in a strong performance because, at the end of the day, we know it’s something that the fans care about and we care about also.“Of course we want to win. We want to win every game we play. And that’s no different for who it is.”It might have been a less perfect afternoon for Carter-Vickers’ U.S. team-mate Auston Trusty, who was benched and did not make it onto the field in the game that confirmed their title. Trusty, who recently became a new father, has not featured in three of his team’s four most recent games. On Saturday, manager Brendan Rodgers preferred Republic of Ireland defender Liam Scales ahead of him. But he did not let that spoil the fun for him and was on the fruit-free pitch to enjoy the post-match celebrations.

Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Jeffrey Schlupp and Arne Engels celebrate on a fruit-free field (Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Straight from the horse’s mouth

The Champagne wasn’t quite uncorked yet for another USMNT defender on Saturday, but it could be on ice. Chris Richards took his usual place in Crystal Palace’s indomitable back three at Wembley in their hugely impressive 3-0 FA Cup semi-final win over Aston Villa. The south London club will now face Manchester City in the final on May 17, after Pep Guardiola’s side beat Nottingham Forest 2-0 in the other semi on Sunday. Before Palace’s big win, Richards did the media rounds and chatted with Men in Blazers, who asked him about the USMNT’s woeful performances in March’s Concacaf Nations League semi-final and third-place games.

“I think the best adjective for what happened in the last camp was we got Concacaf’d,” he said. “We’re going to have to put this show pony-ness away.”

Richards and Ben Chilwell helped Palace shut out Aston Villa (Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Then asked why the U.S. players haven’t always been able to translate successful club form onto the international scene, he added: “One of the reasons I think that everyone has been so successful at their clubs is you’re in that environment every day. “I know it’s hard to emulate that when it comes to national team, but I think that’s why guys seemed so much more in tune or sharper — you’re playing with these guys every single day and when you’re coming to national team, these are guys you only train with, depending on flights, depending on times, maybe two days leading up to a game.

“I understand that’s what every national team is doing, so there’s no excuse, but we needed to be more competitive in the last camp and I think going forward, not just from the players’ aspect but from the coaching aspect… we kind of had a coming-to-Jesus meeting after the last game and we can’t let something like the last camp happen again — especially leading up to a World Cup.”What You Should Read NextChris Richards on USMNT and Crystal Palace ambition: ‘It would go berserk if we won a trophy’The defender from Birmingham, Alabama is part of a tight-knit group at Selhurst Park whose faith has strengthened team unity

How did other U.S. players get on?

Name: Ethan Horvath
Club: Cardiff City
Position: Goalkeeper
Appearances (all competitions): 18

Horvath experienced the low of relegation with his Welsh club on Saturday when their 0-0 draw with U.S.-owned West Brom sealed their EFL Championship fate.

It meant Cardiff will be in League One, England’s third-tier, next term, but the 29-year-old, who joined the Bluebirds in the winter transfer window, still made some excellent saves on a difficult afternoon.

Name: Kevin Paredes
Club: Wolfsburg
Position: Midfielder/wing-back
Appearances: 2

Paredes was so impressive on his return from long-term injury last time out, creating a goal in the 2-2 draw with Mainz, that he kept his place for Wolfsburg’s game against Freiburg on Saturday.

However, it was a difficult afternoon for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side, who were reduced to 10 men after just 26 minutes and ended up losing 1-0. Despite the result, Paredes looked sharp again until he was forced off just past the hour with a hamstring problem.

That is believed to be a minor strain and while he is likely to miss the next game against Gio Reyna’s Borussia Dortmund, he should be back in contention for Wolfsburg’s final two fixtures of the Bundesliga campaign.

Paredes grabs Freiburg’s Patrick Osterhage (Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

Perhaps Paredes will have the words of the national coach in his mind after Pochettino said last week that the USMNT needs players to “fight for the people that would love to be in your position” and “the right characters to be really competitive”.

The 21-year-old, who fell to his knees and sobbed when his young U.S. side were knocked out of the men’s soccer tournament during last summer’s Olympics, is hoping that his will to win (and electric talent) catches Pochettino’s eye. Now he must end the season with Wolfsburg strongly and earn a chance to feature in the USMNT’s summer friendlies or Gold Cup campaign.

Name: Paxten Aaronsen
Club: FC Utrecht
Position: Midfielder
Appearances: 35

The 21-year-old is another young prospect hoping to gain more senior USMNT exposure this summer on the back of a strong season.

He grabbed an assist as Utrecht won 4-0 away at RKC Waalwijk in the Eredivisie. They’re now fourth in the table and level on points with Feyenoord in third. Aaronson has been a key part of this push for Champions League football, with seven league goals to his name so far and having created four more.

His success means the Dutch club, who loaned him for the season from Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt, want to borrow the American again next season.

“We are in talks with Frankfurt,” said Utrecht coach Ron Jans recently. “We hope we can keep him for another year. It will take a few weeks before it is clear whether it will work.”

Whether Frankfurt are inclined to oblige remains to be seen.

Een jongensdroom die uit is gekomen voor Paxten Aaronson 💭

— ESPN NL (@ESPNnl) April 24, 2025

What’s coming up?

(All Eastern Time)

Johnny Cardoso is having a fine old time with his club Real Betis. They’re sixth in La Liga, on course for Europa League qualification and only six points off the Champions League qualification places.

Last Thursday, they thumped Valladolid 5-1, meaning they head into their Europa Conference League semi-final against Fiorentina on Thursday in fine fettle.

Cardoso’s performances have caught the eye and he has been praised by former USMNT player Charlie Davies.

“Johnny Cardoso: we have to talk about him now, at the moment,” Davies said on CBS Sports Golazo America. “(He’s) 23 years old, killing it at Real Betis, another massive goal for him at the club, and he was near perfect on the ball (in Betis’ previous win over Girona). I think he’s really found a good role within this team and Isco is the guy that makes this team tick, but in terms of being an outlet and being able to shuttle the ball across, he has great positioning.”

Watch them in that semi-final on Thursday (3pm, Paramount+).

Cardoso is enjoying his time with Real Betis (Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

By Saturday, we will know if Antonee Robinson has recovered from the knee pain that has plagued him lately to face Aston Villa in the Premier League (7:30am, Peacock Premium).

Given the load on him this season for club and country and the possibility of further football in the summer’s Gold Cup, it will be vital that the left-back’s minutes are managed carefully to prevent his knee issue becoming worse going into the World Cup year.

Also on Saturday, Bournemouth and Tyler Adams are charged with trying to end their season on a high after their promise stalled, leaving them in mid-table. They travel to second-placed Arsenal (12:30pm, Peacock Premium).

Finally, next Monday, see if Pulisic and Milan’s belated mini-revival can keep going when they take on Genoa (2:45pm, Paramount+).(Top photos: Getty Images)

Barcelona are the world’s most fun team to watch – because they are flawed

Raphinha right winger of Barcelona and Brazilcelebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Semi Final First Leg match between FC Barcelona and FC Internazionale Milano at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on April 30, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

By Pol Ballús May 1, 2025

“I am extremely proud of the performance my squad has put in, because tonight we faced one of the most offensive and beautiful teams in the world.”

Those were the words of Inter manager, Simone Inzaghi, after the first leg of a thrilling tie in the Champions League semi-finals. Six goals, an endless carousel of highlights and arguably the best game in the competition this season.

Advertisemen

Among all the things we learned on Wednesday night was the reassurance that Barcelona are the world’s most entertaining team — which does not mean the best.

How Lamine Yamal carried his team in a mind-blowing exhibition, the fact they scored three goals against a team that had only conceded four in 12 games in the Champions League this season, and the mentality the squad showed in coming back from a two-goal deficit, and then 3-2 down, were a treat to witness. But all of this happened because the Catalans were imperfect, as they have been throughout the whole season.

Since Hansi Flick took charge last summer, Barca’s approach in games has been enthralling but self-destructive. They are defined by a high defensive line, which they combine with a relentless counter-press. Flick’s system has been generally well adjusted during the season, and his squad’s offensive firepower has brought them to where they are right now — in sight of a remarkable treble of La Liga, Champions League and Copa del Rey (which they won in similarly ridiculous fashion last weekend).

But their football is a high-wire act, and it feels like every play in a game has only two potential outcomes: Barcelona suffocates their opponent and destroys them, or as soon as a team slides through their first line of pressure, they find a vulnerable defence to capitalise on.

That was perfectly exposed in the Inter game. Barca registered 19 shots against Inter. They scored three goals and hit the woodwork two more times. Meanwhile, Inter had seven shots, three of them on target which resulted in goals, and had a fourth one disallowed because Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s toe was somehow in an offside position.

This is the price Flick has to pay in order to play like Barca do. The most extreme example is probably Yamal, a precocious talent who makes the difference like nobody else in the offensive end. However, that attacking output is offset by the knowledge that he will be less active in off-the-ball pressing or defending.

Frenkie de Jong is similar. He is a luxury of a holding midfielder, a gifted technician that does not lose a ball, can split pressing lines driving the ball and is in the best form of his Barca career. However, as soon as he is not in possession, you will see him struggling to fill the gaps in defence, being as aggressive on duels as he should be and, therefore, making the team more vulnerable.

“We are not going to back down on our plan — in fact, I’d say the opposite,” said a source in Barcelona’s backroom staff — who prefers to remain anonymous in order to protect their position — in the build-up to the Inter game. “We’ll double our trust in the approach we have to the game. We’ll keep playing as radical as you’ve seen.”

Yamal is a genius on the ball but offers little protection (Lluis Gene/AFP via Getty Images)

Inter manager Simone Inzaghi went on the same line while speaking to Italian broadcasters after the game. “Barcelona’s strategy is very risky, but it pays off,” he said. “They’ve scored over 150 goals, have already won two titles, and are still competing for two more.”

What happened in the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals is not news to Barcelona. They arrived at the game after Saturday’s fascinating Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid, when they won 3-2 with a comeback sealed in extra-time.

A week earlier, they came back from 3-1 down against Celta Vigo to claim another injury-time win in La Liga. Over the last five games Barca played across all competitions, they have conceded 11 goals.

There might be an explanation behind this recent tendency, though: Barca players are exhausted, and some are injured.

Robert Lewandowski and Alejandro Balde were not available for the first leg, with backups Ferran Torres and Gerard Martin replacing them. Jules Kounde is very likely to miss the second leg through a hamstring injury suffered against Inter. Meanwhile, Pedri, arguably their most influential player, has spent so long on the pitch this season that he can hardly complete 90 minutes.

“It’s not easy, when you play every three days, to train things as you’d want,” said Flick during his post-match media duties. “This is the situation. Kounde’s injury is also about playing every three days. It happens.”

It all comes at a time when Barca are facing some of the best squads in Europe as they pursue the treble. But the dressing room is not worried by that.

“It’s good to see what we do because we like to play attacking football, control the game and score goals,” said De Jong after the game. “We take some risks with that, but I think we also obtain many good things, so we will keep having the same mentality.”

De Jong says Barcelona will not sacrifice their principles (Carl Recine/Getty Images)

“We wanted more,” added Yamal. “I believe we could have won the game. I’m happy to help the team but I always want to win and that’s why I ended the game a bit bitter.

“But we will go again like we did today. We are focused on the second leg, and we’ll go right after them.”

Hold on tight: next Tuesday’s decider in Milan promises to be a must-watch.

(Top photo: Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Lamine Yamal’s first press conference: Messi comparisons, hair dye and silencing the critics

Lamine Yamal on Lionel Messi parallels: ‘I don’t want to compare me with anyone’

Barcelona’s Jules Kounde likely to miss Champions League semi-final second leg with injury

Inter Miami has little to show for Messi, star-studded roster

Lizzy Becherano ESPN May 1, 2025, 01:40 AM ET

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Chase Stadium was vibrating just moments ahead of the first whistle as supporters filled every seat, with chants echoing throughout the stands and pink Inter Miami CF flags waving in the air. By the 72nd minute, however, the Vancouver Whitecaps managed to completely silence the once lively cauldron with a fierce attack as the large scoreboard read MIA: 1, VAN: 3. The life that once coursed through the rows of Chase Stadium in the moments prior to the goals felt like a distant memory as fans succumbed to the disappointment of an elimination in the knockout round of yet another tournament. Once the referee blew the final whistle, those still left in the stands clapped, but the players ignored those efforts, choosing to exit the pitch with haste. Lionel Messi rushed into the tunnel with his head down, stepping into the darkness of Chase Stadium’s infrastructure to leave everything about this series behind him on the pitch.

Editor’s Picks

Messi tracker: All goals, assists, key moments for Inter Miami in 20251dESPN
Sources: Pogba eyeing Europe despite D.C. talks3dJulien Laurens
Minnesota signs Gressel off waivers through ’263dESPN

Inter Miami knew they faced an enormous challenge when entering the match with a 2-0 deficit from the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinal first leg, but no one expected the final 5-1 aggregate scoreline.

When signing the Barcelona boys, Inter Miami co-owner Mas vowed continuous success would enthrall spectators at Chase Stadium and fans all over the world. Though the club saw immediate results when winning the inaugural Leagues Cup trophy, in 2023, Inter Miami could not keep up with expectations. With each passing season, the club finds new ways to strengthen the playing squad and provide Messi with the necessary tools to thrive in the final third in a bid to keep that initial promise of trophies. But efforts continue to fall short, paving the way for the same, tired concern: where is the silverware for this star-studded roster?

Just over a year ago, on April 11, Inter Miami fell 5-2 on aggregate to CF Monterrey in the quarterfinals of the Concacaf Champions Cup. Former head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino blamed MLS roster rules, insisting the constraints of the American system held the team back from competing against Liga MX giants who overspend on every position. Despite the initial declarations, Inter Miami vowed to come back stronger in 2025.This year felt different for supporters as the club made several changes to the roster in hopes of finding success after the 2024 disappointments. The team incorporated players like Telasco Segovia, Tadeo Allende and Maximiliano Falcón into the starting XI, while making necessary additions to the bench for depth. At the helm, Miami found new leadership to steer the club to triumph. Mesmerized by his football philosophy, Mas insisted Javier Mascherano would be the one to untap international stardom and guide the historic leap into the semifinals.”There is pressure here to win, and that pressure is going to continue. We expect it of ourselves, our coaches and players,” Mas said when introducing Mascherano as head coach in November 2024.To which the new coach reaffirmed: “I am convinced I can do it. I have no doubt.”But instead, history repeated itself as the team fell short and Inter Miami was once again eliminated just shy of the final.Inter Miami started the second leg strongly, kicking off the match with the energy of a team that needed a miracle to advance. Players chased every ball, won those 50-50 challenges that felt impossible in Canada, and connected well on the attack.By the ninth minute, Messi danced his way to the final third to find Luis Suárez and initiate the first goal-scoring play of the night. The pass from Messi to his former Barcelona teammate and current attacking partner ignited Suárez to connect with Jordi Alba — another Barça alum — for the left-back to fire truly home.

The goal made its way through the fantastic four, starting from Sergio Busquets, coming through Messi and Suarez before Alba found the net. But the magic fizzled out in the second half, after suddenly two defensive errors cost Miami two goals in the span of three minutes and ultimately the series. Those two goals dismantled the hope of a comeback for Inter Miami and, with that, the game plan Mascherano set out to complete through his players vanished.Instead, flashbacks of the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals match against Monterrey began to crop up. On April 11, 2024, the team entered the second leg at a disadvantage, needing two goals or more to secure a positive result. Though players arrived at the BBVA Stadium in Nuevo Leon, Mexico, anxious to live up to the expectations that the coach, squad and team executives set for fans, efforts disappointed. When Monterrey gained the lead, the Herons took an anemic hit and began unraveling.

Herculez Gomez and Cristina Alexander debate the biggest storylines and break down the best highlights that soccer in the Americas has to offer. Stream on ESPN+ (U.S. only)

This time around, the game felt no different.

After the 53rd minute, when Brian White and Pedro Vite scored within four minutes of each other, desperation became the leading contributor to decision-making. The deep concentration and man-to-man marking that defender Maximiliano Falcon discussed during the pre-match conference could no longer be seen on the field.Players resulted to shoving and physical tactics over technique, while Mascherano made rash decisions from the sidelines. The two goals forced the Miami boss to make key changes to the line-up, incorporating Allen Obando for Segovia, and Gonzalo Luján to replace Falcon for the first time since signing those players in pre-season.On the field, those in the attack began to sporadically shoot in the direction of the goal in hope of finding the back of the net. Even Messi, who knows how to read the field with precision to perfectly plan his next move, began involving himself in every aspect of the game with angst. The player who naturally prioritizes calculated plays over impulsive actions could not hold back from attacking every opportunity with frustration. He didn’t wait for players to find him in the final third for the determining goal-scoring opportunity, instead he went out of his way to find the ball himself across the entire pitch.

With patience, smarter decisions could’ve been made to connect passes and dance through defenders to beat the goalkeeper, as the team has done countless times this season.

Gomez: More important Inter Miami win Champions Cup than MLS

Herculez Gomez speaks ahead of Inter Miami’s Concacaf Champions Cup semifinal second leg vs. Vancouver.”In the span of three to four minutes they decided the series. We wanted to play a longer game, without rushing and with calm,” said Mascherano after the match. “We were one goal away from tying the series and what we pretended to do is have a long game.”The hardest part was done, which was to score the first goal. But this is football, especially in a semifinal. Two or three errors against a good opponent, obviously good because they reached the semifinal, but they end up hurting you and end up sentencing with the series.”The game plan dissipated and no amount of star power on the roster could save the club from elimination. Inter Miami have come to know this reality all too well. Mascherano couldn’t even rely on Tata Martino’s former excuse as the team played against three MLS teams and stood as one of the highest-valued rosters on this side of the bracket.After Wednesday’s match, Busquets vowed that Miami would come back stronger, like the team did in 2024.”We keep getting further and further every year,” he said. “But with that consolation although today it’s not much. We think ahead.”The difference this time around, however, is that time is running out, and the clock continues to wind down on the careers of Miami’s fantastic four. By 2026, the Herons may look wildly different as the contracts of Suárez, Messi, Alba and Busquets run through the end of the 2025 MLS campaign.Rumors continue to swirl, and talks remain ongoing about extending the contract of Messi, but his supporting cast may choose to retire come December, or play somewhere else, and Inter Miami will have little to show for their time in South Florida.One Leagues Cup trophy and a Supporters’ Shield is not the decorated silverware that Mas promised at the presentation of these players in 2023. Breaking the MLS record for most points scored in single season will not be enough for Inter Miami at the end of this star-studded chapter.Inter Miami still have three opportunities to win a trophy this season: MLS, the Leagues Cup and the Club World Cup. Wednesday night’s elimination has never made it more clear: this side has precious few chances left to win the silverware it so desperately craves.

Sebastian Berhalter’s arrival makes for a unique North American soccer plot twist

Vancouver Whitecaps standout Sebastian Berhalter

By Jeff Rueter pril 30, 2025 The Athletic

Study Sebastian Berhalter’s rapidly burgeoning goal catalog, and the majority of any clip’s duration leaves him out of the frame entirely.A breakout star on the Vancouver Whitecaps, currently the hottest team in North America, Berhalter is a regular starter as a right-sided central midfielder. He’s a vital part of the Whitecaps’ build-up, an increasingly expert progressive passer who rates among MLS’s best in the current season. Once the ball is among the forwards, he carefully picks his moment to arrive near the box. It’s a facet of his game that he’s been relishing in this year.Minnesota United was just the latest to learn about Berhalter’s late-arriving quality to open the scoring in their Sunday matinee.It’s perhaps a fitting calling card given Berhalter’s gradual rise as a player. Just shy of his 24th birthday, he was touted as a player to watch as a future MLS contributor but was often overshadowed. He didn’t break out before turning 20, as peers like Aidan Morris and Caden Clark may have, and he wasn’t a regular starter until landing with his third team in the league, joining Vancouver ahead of the 2022 season.These days, the son of former USMNT manager Gregg Berhalter is making a name all his own, among the headliners of a Whitecaps side entering the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinal second leg against Lionel Messi and Inter Miami in pole position.

“It’s kind of been a steady incline, and I think that’s something that’s kind of been consistent in my life,” Berhalter told The Athletic. “It’s never come for me all at once. I’ve had to work really hard to be where I’m at, so it’s kind of like — I don’t want to say it’s what I’m expecting, but it’s something that I have the confidence that if I just keep doing what I’m going to do, then eventually it’s going to come.”

The 2020 season was poised to be the dawn of Berhalter’s MLS career. He had just signed a homegrown contract with the Columbus Crew and was projected to earn MLS minutes. When the COVID-19 pandemic put the country into lockdown, however, his development went in an entirely different direction.

With the world displaying an abundance of caution, the sport stood still for clubs and countries alike. There were no games, no training sessions for young players to get their reps and be ready for a return to play. Sebastian headed to Chicago, joining his father and working under Gregg to refine his game as his professional career was just kicking off.Look beyond the family ties, and this was a rare chance for a still-developing young midfielder to get one-on-one guidance from an active national team coach. Throughout his upbringing, Sebastian had been told he’d need to forge his own path to reach his professional dreams.“That’s probably, when I look back at it, one of the most important times in my life, in terms of as a soccer player and as a person,” the younger Berhalter said of those sessions at a field beside Lane Tech High School.“He knows how to kind of keep me in check, how to push my buttons. It was fun, man. Looking back on it, that’s exactly what I needed. I needed to kind of be broken down a little bit, and that’s what he did.”Admittedly, Sebastian didn’t always “love it all the time.” There was no corner to cut, no eased expectations to keep the peace at that night’s dinner. These sessions were tailored specifically to bolster the young player’s chances of enjoying a successful career.

Ex-USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter Former USMNT manager Gregg Berhalter now runs the Chicago Fire in MLS. (Photo by Anne-Marie Sorvin/Imagn Images)

Among the most important takeaways from these sessions was helping Sebastian adjust his game to “physically, actually just grow into my body.” Speed was at the top of the list, recalibrating his stride and explosiveness to get as much from him as he could.“He did a great job, and I’m thankful for that,” Sebastian said, “because it was one of the only times in my life he’s really trained with me. He was super hands off (when I was) growing up. It was always, like, ‘You’ve got to do it by yourself.’ It kind of instilled that into me, my work ethic — ‘OK, if I want this, I’m gonna have to go get it.’”While he didn’t immediately parlay those lessons into a starting role, making nine league appearances as the Crew went on to win MLS Cup 2020, it was a vital crash course that provided a sturdy bedrock upon which to build out his technical skillset and mental acumen.When talking about those training sessions, Berhalter calls himself “one of the luckiest guys in the world.” If he feels he needs a keen observer to provide a tip or some advice, he’s able to pick the brain of the USMNT coach with the best winning percentage of anyone who has held the job on a permanent basis.There were times, however, when that status as a national team manager put Gregg and his family in a bright, if unwanted, spotlight — perhaps at no time more than after the 2022 World Cup.

Sebastian was in Qatar throughout the USMNT’s run, seeing his dad’s team advance from its group before falling to the Netherlands in the round of 16. Soon after, news broke that midfield star Gio Reyna — whose lack of utilization was a common talking point during the team’s run — had frustrated his teammates with a lack of effort in training before the opening match against Wales. Reyna apologized to the team later during the group stage, and the matter seemed resolved.

Public interest around Reyna’s situation sustained into early 2023, when Gregg Berhalter’s comments at a leadership symposium went public. He referenced the situation (omitting any player’s name) in what he said was supposed to be an off-record session. News also broke that Reyna’s parents, Claudio and Danielle, had called U.S. Soccer to bring up a domestic incident between Gregg and his now-wife, Rosalind, while the two were in college — a perceived attempt at blackmail against a coach who didn’t start their child at a World Cup.That the two families were close and had shared deep ties with each other made for, without a doubt, one of the ugliest off-field scandals in program history. Berhalter was ultimately re-hired for a second tenure after an independent investigation, and his dynamic with Gio Reyna was a frequent point of discussion through the rest of his tenure, which ended after the 2024 Copa América. While it was undeniably a difficult moment, Sebastian felt it ultimately strengthened the Berhalters’ bond.“I think it definitely brought our family closer together, everyone,” Sebastian said. “Because of that, we’re closer together than we were before, which is cool, just to see everyone have each other’s backs. Now we know that we’re a tight-knit family.”Berhalter unequivocally said he’s proud of his father’s work with the USMNT, adding that he took cues from how Gregg handled media scrutiny.“It just never affected him. It doesn’t matter what anyone says, you’re doing your job. It’s something that I definitely take with me,” he said.Given their similar ages and parents’ friendship, Sebastian and Gio (who is roughly 18 months younger) grew up as friends. When asked if he and Gio have spoken about the saga, or if their relationship is in a better place, Sebastian simply said “no,” not displaying a desire to elaborate.

Vancouver Whitecaps standout Sebastian Berhalter Sebastian Berhalter has had plenty to celebrate in 2025. (Photo by Anne-Marie Sorvin/Imagn Images)

To further Berhalter’s development after its 2020 MLS Cup title, Columbus sent him on loan to Austin FC for their inaugural season in 2021. Coached by Josh Wolff, a former assistant of Gregg’s with the Crew and USMNT, Sebastian Berhalter admitted he “got beat down a little bit,” but quickly assessed that it was what he needed to make it at the game’s highest level.

When Austin, whose sporting director at the time was Claudio Reyna, turned down the purchase option at the end of his loan, Berhalter was traded by Columbus to Vancouver for just $50,000 of allocation money — the lowest amount MLS allows teams to trade — with an additional $50,000 of performance metrics. Even when assuming he cleared those benchmarks, it’s among the best bargain acquisitions in recent memory.

Since joining the Whitecaps, Berhalter’s minutes have increased with each successive season, and he’s on track to eclipse his 2024 ledger of 2,021 in MLS competition. He has evolved into the archetypal box-to-box midfielder, a late-arriving number 8 who can keep the team moving towards goal while having an eagerness to track back and defend if possession changes hands. He’s part of an established core that have been together for multiple seasons, making movement patterns easier as many starters can dependably trust each other’s instincts.

“I think you see that when we play,” Berhalter said. “You can see it’s a group that’s been together for three to four years, and everyone trusts each other. Everyone believes in each other. We know each other so well. It’s nice to see that everything’s coming together.”

Goals like the opener on Sunday are also a byproduct of how the Whitecaps have had to adjust in the young season. Since 2021, Scotland international Ryan Gauld has been at the heart of Vancouver’s attack, among the best playmakers in MLS. However, Gauld picked up a knee injury in the team’s third game of the regular season, leaving reason to wonder if the club could maintain its form without its most important facilitator.Berhalter has picked up some of that responsibility, also benefitting from new coach Jesper Sørensen’s field-tilt machine that keeps more of Vancouver’s touches in the final third. As of April 29, he averages 37.4 pass attempts in the opponent’s half per 90 minutes, up from roughly 26 per 90 in each of the last three seasons. Despite the massive uptick in volume, he’s also displayed career-best accuracy, completing 87.9% of his attacking half passes and 79% of those attempted in the final third.

“It’s something I think I can do as a player, and it’s been fun,” Berhalter said of his increased utilization near the box. “I like arriving. I feel like when I arrive, I can still get back, so it’s not a big issue for me. I want to score, I want to assist, I want to help the team win games. I think that’s the most important thing, whatever role it is.”

“Arriving” is a word Berhalter uses often when talking about his progression over the past year or two, using movement to unsettle a defense as it establishes itself against an attack. Two players he studies closely in regards to arriving are Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali and Barcelona attacking midfielder Pedri.

“I think those two are ones that are a little bit different in ways,” Berhalter said. “But they both have that almost defining characteristic of having their specialties. With Tonali, it’s just powerful, being able to arrive (despite contact). Pedri, it’s the way he can take the ball anywhere and also still being able to arrive.”

He’s also a key figure on a team that’s often overlooked in the broader MLS landscape. Vancouver props up the upper-left corner of the league’s geography, some distance from other Canadian clubs in Toronto and Montreal while being overshadowed in the Pacific Northwest by a historic rivalry between the Seattle Sounders and the Portland Timbers. This year has even more weight to it for Vancouver, as the club is actively up for sale.

Berhalter stops short of branding his team an underdog, even as it squares off with the superteam on the opposite corner of MLS’s map. He said Vancouver “doesn’t need the media attention,” and has gotten used to not getting much over the past three seasons. When bringing a 2-0 advantage from the first leg to Miami, it’s highly unlikely that the moment will phase the Whitecaps.

“Yeah, it’s one game at a time,” Berhalter said. “That’s probably been the biggest thing, because when you have that many games, you can’t look too far ahead. Especially with opponents like Miami, you can tend to look ahead and be like, ‘Oh, we’re playing this guy, playing that guy.’ It’s been good. It’s honestly been impressive with this group, how we’ve handled this. I think just internally, everyone’s been really driven, really focused, and everyone knows what they need to do to get the job done.”

Sebastian Berhalter marks Lionel Messi in the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals. (Photo by Anne-Marie Sorvin/Imagn Images)

The Berhalter family has never been more present in MLS, with Sebastian starring for an MLS Cup contender and Gregg attempting to rebuild the Chicago Fire as head coach and director of football. And we may again see a member of the family back with the USMNT given Sebastian’s play. Few midfielders in the U.S. pool are in as fine of form, and his two-way play and emergence stand in sharp contrast to the criticism U.S. players received after a shocking showing in March’s Nations League finals.

As of April 28, Berhalter said he hasn’t heard from manager Mauricio Pochettino or his staff about whether he’s being eyed for a possible call-up at this summer’s Concacaf Gold Cup. Then again, these things move quickly — Charlotte FC striker Patrick Agyemang hadn’t heard from the federation either until just before his debut in January. While Berhalter is level-headed as always with his answer, it’s clear how much it would mean for him to represent his country.

“It’s been my dream since I’ve been a kid, but I think it’s something that I’m just taking one game at a time,” Berhalter said. “Being around the national team so much — I think I’ve watched every recent game more than probably anyone else has (laughing) — but yeah, it’s not something I’m thinking about. I just worry about winning games here and performing well.”

Those wins keep coming for Vancouver, which sits atop the MLS Supporters’ Shield standings at the end of April. Goal contributions and good team results are providing plenty of highlights and moments to bookmark. So, too, did the team’s sole defeat to date in league play.

On March 22, with the Whitecaps among many teams carrying depleted rosters during the international window, Vancouver welcomed Chicago to BC Place. For the first time, Sebastian lined up against a team coached by his father. The Fire won 3-1.

Nevertheless, it was an unforgettable instance for a player who has earned his starting spot. Regardless of whether he breaks through with the U.S. before the World Cup, or at all, his form since becoming a regular in the Whitecaps’ lineup last year has cemented his arrival.

“I went to him before the game,” Sebastian said of Gregg, “and right after everyone shook hands, he just came over and said he’s proud of me. That was probably one of the coolest moments in my career, where you have your dad on the sideline telling you he’s proud of you.

“It was a cool moment. That gave me the confidence to just go have fun and enjoy it; you know, you’ve earned this.”

The prospect of a Man Utd vs Spurs Europa League final feels wrong – but is it really a shock?

By Elias Burke ay 2, 2025Updated 5:28 am EDT

After Paris Saint-Germain burst Arsenal’s post-Real Madrid bubble in the Champions League on Tuesday, Thursday was England’s day in Europe.

In the UEFA Conference League, a heavily rotated Chelsea side hammered Djurgarden 4-1 on artificial turf in Sweden. In the Europa League, Manchester United produced one of the shocks of the competition, putting their five-game Premier League winless run behind them to beat Athletic Club 3-0 in Bilbao.

n the other side of the bracket, Tottenham Hotspur took care of business in north London, beating Norway’s Bodo/Glimt 3-1. Glimt are excellent at home, and the Arctic conditions and plastic pitch at the Aspmyra Stadion will act as a leveller in the second leg, but Spurs’ two-goal advantage makes them firm favourites to reach the final.

It won’t be the first time a Premier League club has come close to European glory in unusual circumstances — England has produced a few unlikely Europa League finalists over the years. In 2005-06, when the tournament was named the UEFA Cup, Middlesbrough reached the final while toiling in the league’s bottom half, finishing 14th. They knocked out Roma and Basel, among others, before losing 4-0 to Sevilla in the final.

Fulham’s run to the final in 2009-10 was arguably even more impressive, eliminating Italian giants Juventus 5-4 on aggregate in the last 16 despite only finishing 12th in the league.

United and Tottenham’s status and financial strength meant they were both among the strong favourites to win the tournament before it started, but if they both make it to Bilbao’s San Mames Stadium on May 21, given their domestic struggles, it will rank among the Premier League’s most prominent displays of strength on the European stage.

Ruben Amorim’s domestic struggles have been forgotten in Europe (Ander Gillenea/AFP via Getty Images)

Both sides are on course for historically poor Premier League seasons. After taking a 5-1 battering away to Liverpool on Sunday, Tottenham can no longer mathematically finish in the top half — the first time they’ll finish outside the top 10 since 2008 (also, coincidentally, the last year they won a major trophy, the League Cup).

Since breaking the top four in 2009-10, Spurs have established themselves as a near-perennial top-six club, but having already lost 19 times in the league (a club Premier League record), the prospect of restoring pride in the league is gone and winning the Europa League is the only way to save their season.Much of this narrative also applies to United, perhaps even unlikelier Europa League finalists. After a second-half collapse at Old Trafford in the quarter-final against Lyon, allowing the French club to come back from 2-0 down to lead 4-2 in extra time, United produced a fightback that was improbable even by their illustrious standards, scoring three times in seven minutes to win 5-4 on aggregate. Against all logic, both clubs, under the guidance of under-pressure head coaches, have displayed an ability to leave their weekend woes behind to step up on Thursday nights.

Should we be that surprised, though? The obvious caveat to any narrative regarding the “magic” of their European journeys, and the shock at seeing two teams who have struggled so badly in the Premier League stand on the cusp of a major trophy, is that Tottenham and United were the obvious favourites to reach this point given their financial strength.

The figures show that English top-flight clubs, particularly those in the ‘Big Six’, operate far above their Europa League competitors in terms of their transfer kitty and salary budget. Indeed, their resources dwarf many of the continent’s most prominent “legacy clubs”.

Tottenham have a vast stadium – and resources (Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

According to the Deloitte Money League, United’s revenue in the 2023-24 season of £655million (€770million; £$870m) made them the fourth richest club in the world. Tottenham, whose revenues totalled £523m are ninth. The next club from this season’s Europa League in this table are 20th-placed Lyon, with revenues of £224m.

This is also the first season under the new 36-club format where third-placed clubs from the Champions League have not dropped to UEFA’s secondary tournament, eliminating the chance of facing clubs who started in Europe’s premier club competition and may come closer to financial parity.

None of that will matter to the players or their coaches, both of whom have been under intense scrutiny given their Premier League records. The prospect of reaching a European final will also not be lost on the supporters, many of whom have travelled the country watching their clubs fail on a weekly basis. Irrespective of how likely their chances of reaching the final were before the first ball was kicked in September, the fact they’re on their way to one is remarkable given the wider context of their seasons.

Those at Old Trafford for the quarter-final second leg will be reluctant to assume the final is a formality, as will the Spurs fans who watched Glimt beat Lazio 2-0 in the quarter-final first leg in freezing temperatures Ange Postecoglou’s players are not accustomed to.

But if they meet in Spain on May 21 and Chelsea join one of them in lifting a European trophy in Poland a week later, this unlikely-ish meeting will perhaps be the most convincing display yet of the depth of quality in England’s top tier.

(Top photos: Casemiro, left, and James Maddison; Getty Images)

Is Lamine Yamal already the best footballer in Europe? And if not, who is?

By Oliver Kay, Stuart James and more

110

May 2, 2025 12:10 am EDT

“Lamine is the kind of talent that comes along every 50 years,” said Simone Inzaghi after watching the 17-year-old Yamal shine against his Inter team during a breathless 3-3 Champions League semi-final first leg draw in Barcelona.

“One thing that amazes me in football is you always think that there is nobody better than Ronaldo and Messi, (Ruud) Gullit, (Diego) Maradona, a lot of people, and then Lamine Yamal arrives,” said Thierry Henry, the former Arsenal and Barcelona forward working for U.S. broadcaster CBS.

In the afterglow of a wonderful performance, in which he scored one beautiful goal, glided across the pitch, turned defenders inside out and showed off his range of tricks, there was no shortage of praise for Yamal.

Yamal bends in a beautiful Champions League goal against Inter (Joan Valls/Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

The draw with Inter was his 100th appearance and brought his 22nd goal (along with 33 assists). At the same age, Cristiano Ronaldo had made 19 appearances (featuring five goals and four assists) and Lionel Messi had made nine, scoring once.

All of which makes it easy to conclude that he is already the best player in Europe. Or as the former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand put it: “As a pure football talent, I’m going as far as to say I think Lamine Yamal is on another level to any player playing the game in the top five leagues in world football.”

Excitement has long surrounded Yamal, from his moment of perfection at the Euro 2024, to the comparisons with Messi he is keen to avoid.

But is he already the best footballer in Europe? And if he isn’t, who is?

We asked our writers.

‘It is when, not if, he wins the Ballon d’Or’

If I could watch anyone play right now, it would be Lamine Yamal. Every time Yamal got the ball against Inter, you expected something to happen — and that something could be anything because of his incredible talent and the fact that he plays with so much freedom. His goal was breathtaking — a sinuous run and then a shot that was not just beautifully placed but executed in a way (taken early, minimal backlift) that left Yann Sommer, the Inter goalkeeper, rooted.

I actually enjoyed Yamal’s run a few minutes later even more. Poor Federico Dimcarco, who went sliding on by (totally off the pitch) as Yamal, the master of the chop, expertly dragged the ball back inside the wing-back. But for Sommer’s fingertips, we would be talking about another exceptional goal.

To say that Yamal is the best in the world right now, at the age of 17, feels like a big claim. There’s an argument that he needs to score more prolifically – he’s averaging close to one every three this season in all competitions (six goals in 30 appearances in La Liga), and for that reason, I’d put him behind someone like Mohamed Salah, whose numbers are astonishing. But Yamal is a genius and it’s a matter of when, not if, he wins the Ballon d’Or.

Stuart James

‘I’ve never seen a better 17-year-old footballer… but…’

He’s phenomenal and I love watching him. I would go so far as to say — with caveats to follow — that I’ve never seen a better 17-year-old footballer.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo were incredibly talented, but they were not influencing games at the highest level at 17. What Yamal is doing is almost unheard of, but a word of caution: what Ansu Fati was doing at 17 was also extraordinary. Progression is rarely linear.

The Messi/Ronaldo period has created what is an unrealistic perception of what greatness is. In the 1990s and 2000s, “best in the world” was always a fairly fluid debate; back then, it was arguably Rivaldo or (original) Ronaldo or Zinedine Zidane or Paolo Maldini or Luis Figo or Ronaldinho or Kaka or, indeed, Thierry Henry at various points.

Messi and Ronaldo shifted expectations, but Yamal is doing things beyond them at 17 (Lluis Gene/AFP via Getty Images)

I expect the post-Messi era will be similar, with “best in the world” status more transient. This season has brought arguments, at various points, for Mohamed Salah, Raphinha, Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior — not forgetting Rodri, the deserving winner of last year’s Ballon d’Or. It’s wonderful to think a 17-year-old might be part of that conversation for years to come if he continues to develop.

Oliver Kay

‘I’d still put Salah ahead of him’

He’s the player I most enjoy watching at the moment and to turn a Champions League semi-final in the way that he did, against players of that calibre, clearly describes ability that should terrify everyone.

But the best? I would still put Mohamed Salah ahead of him, just on numbers and the consistency of his output. And longevity. Salah is still dominating opponents at 32, having been studied and strategised against for years, which is a hard value to quantify but clearly worth something.

It’s extremely close, though, and if you ask me again in a year, I will probably have changed my mind.

Seb Stafford-Bloor

‘Yamal is uniting generations’

My 10-year-old nephew Flynn is in his football mad era. Last year, he asked me who Steven Gerrard was, which made me feel extremely old. He never needed to ask me who Lamine Yamal was, though. If anything, he’s the one telling me all about him. This 17-year-old kid is uniting generations with his talent.

On Saturday, my nephew, who spent the afternoon watching his beloved Tranmere Rovers secure League Two status after a dismal season, asked if we could watch the Copa del Rey final. Who was the player he most wanted to watch? You guessed it. The magic.

When we grow up, the vividness of imagination that we enjoy during childhood fades, but when watching a player like Yamal, we are all back in time and feel capable of anything. He’s the best right now and will be high up on that list for a long time to come.

Caoimhe O’Neill

‘Mbappe is still the man’

At the top of his game, there’s no better footballer in Europe than Kylian Mbappe.

Not since Cristiano Ronaldo’s early days in Madrid have we seen a player more capable of dominating defences with an equally potent blend of skill and physicality. Whether it’s done by a shifty stepover or brute force and world-class pace, he has more tools to find a yard of space in a crowded box than anyone. Twenty-two goals in 29 league appearances in his debut La Liga season is an excellent return, but such is his quality that we expect much more in the future.

Mbappe has done it on the biggest stages (David Ramos/Getty Images)

When he inspired France to World Cup glory as a teenager, it appeared he was the immediate successor to Messi at the top. At 26, he’s yet to win a Ballon D’Or. Still, while the crown is not undisputed, Mbappe is the man in European football in my eyes.

Elias Burke

‘Clearly Barcelona’s most important player’

Yamal’s tremendous solo goal in Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final first leg between Barcelona and Inter showcased the teenager’s tremendous dribbling ability and outstanding shooting prowess.

Barca’s youngest player is already their on-pitch leader — his goal against Inter was the game’s key moment, coming with his team reeling at 2-0 down.

Over the 90 minutes, he had the most shots (6), most crosses (10), and most dribbles (6) of any player on the pitch. Only midfield colleagues Pedri and Frenkie De Jong had more interventions than his 102.

A superb fingertip save from Sommer denied him a second wonder-goal. He set up chances for team-mates Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo, his dummy distracted the defence for Raphinha’s 3-3 goal, and he hit the crossbar with a late cross-shot.

You keep having to remind yourself that he does not turn 18 for another few months. But he is already clearly Barcelona’s most important player, nothing seems to faze him at all, and the really scary part is that he can still get a lot better.

Dermot Corrigan

‘Let’s not forget Rodri’

Please, let’s not allow injury to make us forget Rodri’s existence. The Manchester City midfielder was Spain’s key player in their European Championship win last summer and is the reigning Ballon d’Or winner.

If we’re talking about right now with the blinkered definition of a player who has literally kicked a ball in the last 48 hours, then it’s Yamal, sure. If we extend it to a player who has graced the pitch in the past week, it’s Salah.

Rodri has been absent from the pitch and maybe our minds? (Michael Regan/Getty Images)

But if we take a step back and ask who the best player currently operating is, the understated Rodri is that man. He may not play in the most heralded of positions, slaloming through and curving shots off the post, but his job is to play the position of two men. He does that at an elite level.

Only this week, he returned to Manchester City training and could return before the end of the season. Rodri, I remember you, and look forward to seeing you soon.

Jacob Whitehead

‘Is he better than Vinicius Jr at full tilt?’

In the maelstrom around Real Madrid’s Ballon d’Or no-show and banners mocking him this season, it seems we might all have forgotten just how good Vinicius Jr really is.

When he is on top form, nobody comes close — in a very literal sense. Just look at the host of right-backs the winger has left in his wake while racking up 105 goals for Madrid.

That puts him ahead of Ronaldo Nazario as the top-scoring Brazilian in Madrid’s history and is even more impressive given how much he struggled to find the target at the start of his time in the Spanish capital.

Vinicius Jr was unplayable in the first half of this campaign, best summed up by his devastating hat-trick in a 5-2 Champions League comeback win against Borussia Dortmund.

It seemed the 24-year-old was on a mission to claim the Ballon d’Or, so perhaps it is no surprise he has failed to hit those heights since missing out on football’s most prestigious individual award to Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri in October (although he did win FIFA’s The Best award in December). The fallout did him and Madrid no favours.

Having another galactico alongside him in Mbappe has also taken some of the shine off his role for his club. Even so, there are few other players who can terrify an opposition defence in the way he does. When Vinicius Jr is at full tilt, you know something special is about to happen.

Tomas Hill Lopez-Menchero

(Top image: Getty Images)

2/28/25 USWNT loses to Japan, Champ League 16 Tues/Wed, FA Cup Weekend on ESPN+, MLS in Champions Cup on FS2 Tu/Wed nights

March 1, 2025March 4, 2025 gatorbest champions-league, grand-park-soccer, mls, soccer, sports, us-soccer, uswnt, womens-soccer

US Ladies lose Cup to Japan 1-2

A youthful US ladies squad lost the She Believes Cup to Japan Thur night in San Diego as the experienced Japan squad simply had too much for the US ladies. Japan became the only team to score within 1 minute of kickoff as they a 1-0 lead less than 1 minute in when Campbell and young centerback ____ miss-communicated giving up an easy goal early. Honestly I thought Campbell was somewhat at fault on both goals as the GK position looks to be one of concern moving forward. The US answered back quickly behind the foot of left winger Ally Sentnor with this masterful strike-her second tournament goal, of the tourney. But Japan scored on a tap in off a free kick drop by Campbell to win it for Japan in the 2nd half.

Bottom line much like Manager Emma Hayes said after – the World Cup is a long way away – and its time to see if the kids can handle the top teams in the world. Of course most of Japan’s players play in Europe which is in midseason while the US NWSL starts in 3 weeks (and was missing Triple Expresso & Girma). The combo of a top 3 team in Japan vs a youthful US team was too much on this night – leading to Hayes’ first loss as US Manager. Still all in all – I think the Cup was a good tool in giving the youngsters time to improve and impress. No doubt wingers Ally Sentnor & Alyssa Thompson are ready to join the A team moving forward. Next up is Gold Medal foe Brazil in early April.

Champions League round-of-16 Games Tues/Wed

Tues, March 3 Champions League

12:45 pm Par+, Club Brugge vs Aston Villa

3 pm Para+, CBSSN Dortmund (Reyna) vs Lille

3 pm Para+ Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid

3 pm Para+ PSV (Ledezma) vs Arsenal

Weds, Mar 4

12:45 pm Para+CBSSN Feyenord vs Inter

3 pm Para+ Bayern Munich vs Bayer Leverkusen

3 pm Para+ PSG vs Liverpool

3 pm Para + Benefica vs Barcelona

Storylines for the round of 16 – Video

1. Can Liverpool return to dominant form?

Liverpool coasted through the league phase, finding no issue winning every game except for their essentially dead-rubber game on Matchday 8. The last couple of months have not exactly been smooth sailing for the Reds, though – fatigue has set in a little bit, They have not dropped a ton of games and managed to book a spot in the EFL Cup final along the way, but the restrained control that was once the trademark of Arne Slot’s team has given way for some hard-fought results.

As long as Mohamed Salah is around, though, they will be hard to count out. The Egypt international is up to 30 goals and 22 assists across all competitions, putting himself not only in the conversation for the Ballon d’Or but perhaps putting together the greatest-ever season from a Premier League attacker. It will not be an easy feat against Paris Saint-Germain, but the French champions have been vulnerable over the course of the Champions League season – and that might be the perfect set-up for Salah.

2. Madrid derby, Champions League edition

Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid will have to go through each other for a spot in the last eight, which is intriguing in its own right. The current state of both teams makes this a very fascinating tie, though.

The reigning champions can take some positives from ousting Manchester City in the knockout phase playoffs, but this season has not exactly been straightforward for the star-studded Real Madrid. Look no further than Saturday’s 2-1 loss to Real Betis in La Liga play, a game in which they were not only outshot 18-9 but fully outplayed by the opposition. That loss came after a handful of key defenders returned from injury, signaling that the imbalance that has plagued Los Blancos for a year and change could linger for a little while longer.

On the flip side, Atletico Madrid have been a surprise contender in both La Liga and the Champions League. They were inside the top eight during the league phase and are currently just one point behind Barcelona in La Liga, finding new life in Diego Simeone’s tried-and-true system. It helps that their goalscorers have been in fine form all season long, with each of Julian Alvarez, Antoine Griezmann and Alexander Sorloth scoring 13 or more goals this season. They present a formidable challenge to Real Madrid, who have not beat them yet this season.

3. Are Bayern Munich in good shape?

Bayern Munich may have advanced out of the knockout phase playoffs, but a narrow win over a competitive Celtic side is not exactly the vote of confidence manager Vincent Kompany might be looking for in his first season in charge. The challenge of staying in the Champions League will get harder this week when they take on the team that beat them to the Bundesliga title last season – Bayer Leverkusen.

These two faced each other in league play just a few weeks ago, a game in which Bayern were lucky to leave 0-0. Leverkusen generated 2.16 expected goals but somehow managed not to score, while Bayern took just two shots and were unable to put a single one on frame. The eight-point deficit in the Bundesliga may be too much for them to overcome at this rate, but Leverkusen’s steady form in the league phase teases that they may have the goods to get one over on Bayern.

As a result, Kompany’s side have a lot to prove in this tie. There’s a lot of discussion out there that they can hang in the Bundesliga just fine, but they have not exactly stacked up well against European competitions. The round of 16 offers a chance to correct course – or demonstrate that they are a step behind.

Mike A, T Ray and Shane Reffing the Girls Showcase at Grand Park last weekend. Happy to be back on the fields – even it was cold as heck – Boys Showcase this weekend !!

Mohamed, T Ray and me first tourney of the season at the Girls Showcase at Grand Park last weekend

GAMES ON TV

Tues, March 4 Champions League

12:45 pm Par+, Club Brugge vs Aston Villa

3 pm Para+, CBSSN Dortmund (Reyna) vs Lille

3 pm Para+ Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid

3 pm Para+ PSV (Ledezma) vs Arsenal

6 pm Fox Sport 2 Cincy vs Tigres UANL Champs Cup

8:30 pm FS2 Pumas vs Alajuelense

Weds, Mar 5

12:45 pm Para+CBSSN Feyenord vs Inter

3 pm Para+ Bayern Munich vs Bayer Leverkusen

3 pm Para+ PSG vs Liverpool

3 pm Para + Benefica vs Barcelona

8:30 pm FS2 Herediano vs LA Galaxy Champs Cup

10:30 pm FS2 Seattle Sounders vs Cruz Azul

Thur, Mar 6 Europa League

12:45 pm Para+ Tottenham vs AZ

12:45 pm Para+ Kobenhavn vs Chelsea

12:45 pm Para+, CBSSN Fenerbahce vs Rangers

12:45 pm Para+ FSCB vs Olympique Lyonnais

12:45 pm Para+ Sociadad vs Man United

3 pm CBSSN Roma vs Athletic Club

8 pm Fox Sports 2 Inter Miami (Messi) vs Cavalier

Fr, Mar 7

2:30 pm ESPN+ Borussia MGladbach (Scally) vs Mainz

(American’s in Parenthesis)

last Saturday

Crystal Palace v Millwall – 7:15a on ESPN+

Matt Turner has started both Crystal Palace’s FA Cup matches this season as has Chris Richards so we may again see both American’s in action this weekend as Crystal Palace host Millwall in Cup action on Saturday.

Leeds United v West Bromwich Albion 8 am ESPN+

Brenden Aaronson and Leeds United host fifth place West Brom looking to extend their five point lead for first place in the Championship. Aaronson has cooled off a bit with just one goal contribution in the teams past ten matches but continues to start regularly, including last weeks win over second place Sheffield United.

Atalanta v Venezia – 9a on Paramount+

Gianluca Busio and Venezia visit Atalanta this weekend. Busio has started the last two matches on the bench though come in for solid playing time in both. Last weekend Venezia played fifth place Lazio to a scoreless draw.

Heidenheim v Borussia Monchengladbach – 9:30a on ESPN+

Joe Scally and Borussia Monchengladbach travel to Heidenheim on Saturday looking to bounce back from a 3-0 loss to Augsburg. Gladbach are in ninth place and still within striking distance of the top four.

St. Pauli v Borussia Dortmund – 9:30a on ESPN+

Gio Reyna saw a rare start last weekend in Borussia Dortmund’s 6-0 shellacking of Union Berlin, though four of those goals came after Reyna had been subbed off in the 70th minute. Dortmund will place St. Pauli this weekend who have lost three straight but still have a six point cushion between themselves and relegation.

AFC Bournemouth v Wolverhampton Wanderers – 10a on ESPN+

Tyler Adams and Bournemouth host Wolverhampton on Saturday in a cup match between the two Premier League sides. Adams has been starting pretty regularly, including Bournemouth’s last two FA cup matches but he was used as a sub last weekend as his team fell to Wolves 1-0 in league play.

Real Betis v Real Madrid – 12:30p on ESPN Deportes and ESPN+

Johnny Cardoso and Real Betis will host Real Madrid on Saturday. Cardoso has started nine straight but he did come off the bench early this season as Betis fell to Madrid 2-0.

Go Ahead Eagles v PSV – 12:45p on ESPN+

Perhaps we shouldn’t be tracking PSV at this point as the only healthy American is Richard Ledezma, who reportedly did not make the 60 man provisional roster for the March USMNT camp. However, the team does play on Saturday and need to get back on track after a four match winless streak that has them in second place, five points back of league leading Ajax.

Sunday

Olympique Lyon v Brest – 9a on beIN Sports

Tanner Tessmann has started three straight and played the full ninety last weekend as Lyon fell to PSG 3-2. The team will host Brest on Sunday.

Manchester United v Fulham – 11:30a on ESPN+

Antonee Robinson and Fulham will travel to Manchester to face a Man U side that defeated Ipswich Town last weekend but remain in fourteenth place in the EPL. Fulham fell to United in their season opener 1-0 but since then have pretty easily looked the better side and are coming off a 2-1 win over Wolverhampton.

Augsburg v Freiburg – 11:30a on ESPN+

Noahkai Banks has not seen the field the last couple of weeks for Augsburg who will host Freiburg on Sunday.

AC Milan v Lazio – 2:45p on Paramount+

Yunus Musah started and Christian Pulisic came off the bench mid-week as Milan fell 2-1 for the second straight match and dropped back to eighth place in the Serie A table. Milan are now eight points back of Juventus for fourth place and the final Champions League qualifying spot.

Monday

Juventus v Verona – 2:45p on Paramount+

Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, and Juventus will look to tighten their grip on Champions League qualification when they host fourteenth place Verona on Monday afternoon.

FA Cup Schedule this Weekend

Champions League

What to know about the Champions League round of 16

US Ladies

Why USWNT’s loss to Japan could be ‘good thing’ for Hayes’ team
Japan beats USWNT 2-1 to win SheBelieves Cup as U.S. suffers first defeat of Emma
USWNT player review: Who stood out, stepped back or made a case for the future?
Japan unseats USWNT in SheBelieves Cup, ending 5-year tournament winning streak
Hayes: USWNT ‘future is exciting’ despite 1st loss
USWNT’s Hayes deserves benefit of the doubt after first loss — for now ESPN Cesar Hernandez
USWNT loses to Japan in 1st defeat of Hayes era ESPN News Services
Biyendolo and Cooper score as United States beats Australia 2-1 in SheBelieves Cup
USWNT midfielder Jaedyn Shaw reflects on trade to Courage: ‘I just wanted to be playing a certain style’
USWNT star Girma set to make Chelsea debut

US Men

Liverpool Want To Sign This Fulham Left-Back: Why Will He Be A Good Signing?
Mexico coach confirms talks with U.S.’s Ledezma
Squirrel! USMNT’s Josh Sargent has goal ‘assisted’ by furry pitch invader

World

Milan fans show indifference after Bologna defeat as frustration grows
Serie A title race: Which results Inter, Napoli and Atalanta need
Napoli vs. Inter: Three key battles to watch

GK

Five goalkeepers Man United should target as a replacement for Andre Onana – opinion

Reffing

New Ref Abuse Prevention Policy
Become a Licensed Ref with Indiana Soccer – must be over 13

When this is offside — we have gone way to far with VAR !!

=======RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ===

Looking for a good summer meal? Try out the Best BarBQ in Town right across the street (131st) from Northview Church on the corner of Hazelldell & 131st. RackZ BBQ

Save 20% on your order

(mention the ole ballcoach)

======================RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ======================

Lindsey Heaps #10 of the United States salutes the fans

Why USWNT’s loss to Japan in SheBelieves Cup could be a ‘good thing’ for Emma Hayes’ team

Melanie Anzidei The Athletic Thu, February 27, 2025 at 8:31 AM EST·

SAN DIEGO—The U.S. women’s national team has ended its five-year run as the reigning champions of the SheBelieves Cup after a 2-1 defeat to Japan.

It is a disappointing result for U.S. fans, marking Emma Hayes’ first loss in 15 matches since becoming head coach, but Wednesday’s game against a more experienced rival was a humbling and necessary step for the Americans as they focus on developing a new generation of players.

“I always go back to what our objectives were in the first place,” Hayes calmly told reporters after the game, “and that was to deepen our playing pool with opportunities in high-pressure situations against top opponents, and that’s what tonight (Wednesday), especially, is about.”

It’s no secret this latest camp was designed for Hayes and her coaching staff to observe seasoned U.S. players in a tournament setting. The goal was to determine where players were in their development, and whether they are ready for a regular spot on the senior team, or would be a better fit among Hayes’ burgeoning Under-23 project.

“We have to look at which players are ready for now, which players are ready for later, and which ones will go with the under-23s and which ones will develop with us,” Hayes said. “So, from that perspective, it was mission accomplished.”

Hayes experimented heavily with the SheBelieves line-up, even changing the team’s starting XI entirely from their opening game against Colombia to their second match with Australia, which ended in victory.

There were four senior debuts over three games, and a handful of breakout moments for young players such as 21-year-old Ally Sentnor and 17-year-old Lily Yohannes. Cat Macario, a familiar face in the national team circuit, also had a stellar comeback to the international stage after being sidelined for years because of a knee injury. She even scored for the U.S. for the first time in three years, finding the net in the 2-0 win over Colombia.

“We could look at the progress of Ally Sentnor, a young player coming into the senior camp, scoring a couple of goals, Lily Yohannes, getting her first two starts at senior level,” Hayes said. “There are plenty of new combinations and new connections, which throw up several challenges when you play a well-polished team.”

Those challenges are exactly why Hayes tapered expectations heading into the SheBelieves finale. Japan were dominant in the tournament, scoring 10 goals across three wins. They only needed a draw against the U.S. to lift their first SheBelieves title, but they quickly set the pace with an opening goal from Yuka Momiki in the second minute.

https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/1KzEemSnmp3gBlHlSS76bm?utm_source=generator

“I completely understood the quality of the opponent we would face,” Hayes said. “They, without question, (are) one of the best teams in the world, with players that are extremely well played-in together, while probably the vast majority of them being in the middle of their season (the NWSL resumes in March). That showed in the game, and it’s OK to be disappointed.”

Both goals in the 2-1 loss came following errors in front of goal. While the U.S. could respond to Japan’s first goal with an equalizer in the 14th minute through Sentnor, they failed to respond to Toko Koga’s strike in the 50th minute.

“Every cycle, there’s always a little upset like this — and it’s a really good thing for this team. No one likes losing. But there’s a lot of progress in our development and how we’re playing, our style, our identity, and really honing in on the details,” U.S. captain Lindsey Heaps said after the game. “We faced a really good team, they made it so difficult on us.

“It’s a hard loss, but we keep moving and we stay positive.”

There were glimpses of brilliance in their performance against Japan. The U.S. kept possession even and had more shots on target, with Heaps nearly scoring off several diving headers. The team was tapping on Japan’s door, but it proved too little too late by full time. As Hayes said, the only way the U.S. would improve against Japan and other top-level teams was to play against them and make those mistakes in real-time. The preference, of course, is to do that during an international friendly.

“This is a big learning opportunity. We’re a young team. We all haven’t played together for very long,” said 20-year-old Jaedyn Shaw, who began her NWSL career in San Diego at 17 before being traded to the North Carolina Courage last month. “It just gives us something to go and work for and really dive deep into when we go back to our clubs, and continue to evolve as a team.”

Sentnor had a breakout tournament, scoring her first two international goals and netting an assist over three games to make her the sixth player to contribute in all three matches in a single edition of this tournament, following other U.S. standouts Tobin Heath (2019), Christen Press (2020), Heaps (2021), Alex Morgan (2023) and Mallory Swanson (2023), according to OptaJack.

“The young players, including myself, are just gonna learn a ton from playing against really tough opponents that are super technical,” said Sentnor. “I would have never believed I’d be in this position this early in my career, and the players around me have just helped me so much, so I’m hoping for more caps with this team and more opportunities, but I’m just so grateful for the ones I got this tournament.”

For Hayes, falling to Japan was a necessary step to grow the national team’s ecosystem, which begins with expanding the player pool and identifying that next generation of players.

“You need moments to give you a sense of where you are in that path, but our future is exciting, regardless of the result,” Hayes said. “We played one of the best teams in the world, whose nucleus have played together for a long time, and it showed.

“We need to build the group and the larger pool that we think are going to progress us to the World Cup (in 2027), and now we have to develop our game model so that it plays out in with the qualities that we know you need to have to beat the very, very best teams at the top level.”

This article originally appeared in The Athletic.

USWNT player review: Who stood out, stepped back or made a case for the future?

Meg Linehan and Jeff Rueter Fri, February 28, 2025 at 7:01 AM EST·

The 2025 SheBelieves Cup is in the rearview. For the first time in six years, the tournament trophy did not end up in the United States’ possession. Instead, Japan took top honors after a 2-1 win over the USWNT on Wednesday in San Diego.

However, this wasn’t the type of U.S. camp that would be deemed a failure or success by results alone. Head coach Emma Hayes selected plenty of her player pool’s more untested members to size up their readiness for her best possible squad.

“I always go back to what our objectives were in the first place — and that was to deepen our playing pool with opportunities in high-pressure situations against top opponents, and that’s what tonight especially was about,” Hayes said after the match. “From that perspective, it was mission accomplished.”

With 270 minutes of evidence to study, here are the players who stepped up, those who left us wanting more and those still waiting to strengthen their cases.

Who impressed?

Ally Sentnor

While Japan’s Mina Tanaka had the SheBelieves Cup MVP on lock for much of the tournament, forward Sentnor may have been the USWNT’s leading candidate for the award — and it wouldn’t have been down to just her incredible golazo against Colombia, either.

The challenge for Sentnor is the crowded forward pool. Despite adding a second goal against Japan, a class finish off a feed from Cat Macario, Sentnor’s really going to have to fight to stay in the mix among Mallory Swanson, Trinity Rodman and Sophia Wilson. Sentnor likely did enough to book a trip to California in April for the Brazil friendlies, but if the starting forward line is back, her mission becomes ensuring she capitalizes on her chances as a second-half substitute.

“Ally has demonstrated in her rise through the youth national teams and in her first pro year (with the Royals) that she’s got qualities that can decide a game,” Hayes said after the loss to Japan. “She certainly finishes the very minimal chances she might get, and that’s what top players possess. I think she’s got that, and it will build her confidence to have had this tournament and be given a couple of starts.”

Tara McKeown

While Naomi Girma and Tierna Davidson established themselves as a strong partnership in the Olympics, there is still space for newcomers to work into Hayes’ plans at center back. McKeown earned her first appearance with the team this tournament. While both Colombia and Japan seemed eager to attack her side of the back line in their first halves, McKeown largely looked the part. She also played a line-breaking assist to Sentnor for the forward’s unforgettable first international goal — a reminder of her ability to help in possession.

McKeown rejoins the Washington Spirit ready to further her case for USWNT inclusion.

“I’m sure she will have learned a lot about anything from her build-up angles and how you break pressure against the best opponents, to recognizing at the top, top level, games are usually decided by very marginal moments,” Hayes said Wednesday — stressing that it was a learning moment not just for McKeown but for the whole team.

Catarina Macario

At long last, the Chelsea forward reunited with her old club coach. Injuries kept Macario off of the USWNT’s squads for the 2023 World Cup and the 2024 Olympics, but the 25-year-old figures to be a major part of Hayes’ plans moving forward. She showcased how she can change a game across her two appearances, capping a great team sequence in the opener for her first international goal since April 12, 2022.

She later played a crisp assist to Sentnor against Japan that resulted in the USWNT’s lone goal.

Hayes said after the tournament that Macario had shown “moments of brilliance,” but still was not at full fitness. Opponents, be warned.

Lily Yohannes

The hype train for Yohannes was full steam ahead after the USWNT’s opening match against Colombia, even as Hayes urged everyone to give the 17-year-old time and space to develop. Yohannes got the start against Japan — a sign of Hayes’s trust in the biggest game of the tournament — but they were far more effective at containing Yohannes, especially when it came to mid- and long-range passing.

As Hayes said, despite her talent, Yohannes is still developing. Wednesday night showed that there’s still plenty of room for progress against a top team, even with the statement game she had in the USWNT opener against Colombia.

“(Yui) Hasegawa in the middle of the park is probably the best pivot in the world at both the domestic and international level,” Hayes said. “And our pivot is 17 years of age and has played in three caps. So we have to be patient too, in our expectations.”

Yazmeen Ryan

Ryan played more of a supporting role when she was with Gotham FC. She’ll get that leading woman opportunity in her first season with the Houston Dash, but the selfless elements that made her invaluable with Gotham also put her in good stead for this USWNT camp.

Ryan was a proactive carrier upfield to help the United States progress. Her interplay with Macario and Sentnor was especially sharp against Colombia.

Hayes also thought Ryan had her share of moments, both in terms of her passing and distribution and her ability to carry the ball upfield. But Hayes focused primarily on how to develop Ryan to unlock her next level, which included her defensive play, figuring out when to press and when to hold her position.

“I think there’s another layer of learning for her,” Hayes concluded, “but she’s shown some really good signs and shown, once again, the quality in her execution.”

Who missed the moment?

Goalkeepers

It’s never easy to follow up a program legend, and it’s clear that the current pool of USWNT goalkeeping options have big gloves to fill after Alyssa Naeher’s retirement. Jane Campbell and Mandy McGlynn were given the first opportunities in net after Naeher’s exit, and neither made an emphatic case to keep a hold of the No. 1 jersey for the foreseeable future.

Campbell misread the run-up to Japan’s early opener and took herself out of the play by running into teammate Emily Sonnett. On the second goal, her brilliant save on a free kick put the ball directly back into an opponent’s path, making it all too easy on the eventual tournament winner.

McGlynn conceded just once against Australia, but her positioning was clumsy as she was in two minds about whether to close down the shooter or get a strong positioning for a reflex save.

“Our job is to keep pushing and developing,” Hayes said of her goalkeepers after the Japan match, “and time will reveal where they both are. But I know I’ve been in this situation a lot of times in my career. I value patience in development, and I know that we have a plan, and it’s important for us to keep developing — as we are.”

The mainstays from the 2019 squad

With so many new faces in camp, Hayes was careful to balance their inexperience with some USWNT regulars to maintain continuity as they acclimated. These veterans were expected to put in consistent shifts to account for varying forms among their less-tested teammates. Unfortunately, the old guard also struggled in some crucial areas, especially those who remain from the 2019 world champions.

Lindsey Heaps looked especially frustrated in her games against Colombia and Japan. Playing as a No. 10, the Lyon midfielder sometimes gummed up the United States’ sequences as they entered the final third, getting in the way of her midfield’s progressive passing and trying to run into the same spaces as her center forward. The United States captain tried to make an impact aerially and by being in the position to play the final ball, but these were far from her best shifts to date.

Sonnett’s poorly timed slip helped gift Japan a clear shot for the opening goal, but the all-time SheBelieves minutes leader was otherwise her usually dependable self most often. The same can’t be said for Crystal Dunn, whose lack of playing time since the Paris Olympics was evident as she made unusual mistakes by her standard.

Despite her 157 caps, this felt like a camp in which Dunn was fighting for her spot in Hayes’ plans for the 2027 World Cup cycle. Dunn will likely stay part of the mix in this time of transition, but she’ll need to make more of an impact in future camps.

Ones for the future

Hal Hershfelt

Thanks to a stellar rookie year for the Spirit, Hershfelt had pried open a path into the USWNT midfield. Despite making the roster for the January training camp, Hershfelt didn’t get the nod for SheBelieves Cup. That may have been in part due to the return of multiple European-based players, but Hayes also opted to take a look at Claire Hutton this go-round.

Hershfelt still offers the USWNT real bite in the midfield and a knack for winning aerial duels all over the pitch, including on set pieces. While it feels unlikely that the window has been shut on future call-ups, this felt like the exact type of camp for a player like Hershfelt to shine.

Phallon Tullis-Joyce

Hayes opted for two goalkeepers on her squad in exchange for an additional field player, keeping Tullis-Joyce in camp as a training option. It was unfortunate that we weren’t able to see how the Manchester United netminder could have fared in tandem with the new wave of defenders, as her form in the Women’s Super League has been among the best of any player at her position.

Still, Hayes assured that Tullis-Joyce would eventually get a shot in goal for her team.

“This is just her second camp, she’s still getting to know people,” Hayes said, noting they’ve been keeping tabs on her performances with Manchester United and the areas they’d like to see improvement. “I’m sure Phallon will get her opportunities with us, but the other two (Campbell and McGlynn) have been around the group a little bit longer and built those connections and those relationships. Phallon will get her turn.”

More new kids

Hutton, Gisele Thompson and Emma Sears all got limited opportunities through these three matches, though all three started against Australia. With massive rotation from Hayes in that match, changing all 11 players from the tournament opener (just the sixth time it’s ever happened in program history), cohesion was always going to be a tall ask.

The USWNT will at least have some individual tape for these players, and more for Sears, but Hutton probably came the closest to standing out in the Australia match. Former USWNT head coach Vlatko Andonovski has relied on the 19-year-old defensive midfielder as the backbone of the Kansas City Current’s success, but much as Hayes has preached patience across the board, a solid performance against the current iteration of the Matildas isn’t the same level as a solid performance against Japan or Colombia.None of them should be worried about their standing with the USWNT, but all three are still in the early stages of being dropped into this environment and tested at the highest level.This article originally appeared in The Athletic.US Women’s national team, Soccer, NWSL

2/21/25 US Ladies win over Colombia, Champ League US Players eliminated, MLS season kicks off today, UCL 16 set,

February 22, 2025February 24, 2025 gatorbest champions-league, football, mls, premier-league, pulisic, soccer, sports, us-soccer, us-women, usmnt

US Ladies Win 2-0 over Colombia, Play Australia Sun 5 pm on TBS, Wed 10:30 pm vs Japan
It was nice to see the US look good vs Colombia with a whole lot of new faces on the field. A 2-0 SheBelieves Cup win over Colombia in Houston on Thursday night. Chelsea midfielder Cat Macario (back after 3 years from a torn MCL) and Utah Royals’ Ally Sentnor were the difference for the U.S., the latter scoring in her first start with the senior national team. US vs Colombia Highlights. I thought the whole team looked good – hard getting used to Captain Lindsay Horan being called her new married name of Heaps. The US really dominated play – Gothem’s Ashley Ryan had a couple of nice shots and an assist on the night playing in Rose’s role. Playing as the chief line-breaker behind Sentnor, Lindsey Heaps, and Ryan, 17 year old Lilly Yohannes continually slotted the ball between Colombian midfielders and defenders leading to the first goal. The D lead by Sonnet, Nighswonger were solid and Campbell was really not tested in goal. The US next plays Sunday at 5 pm with a match against Australia in Glendale on TBS. The final day of the competition is Wed vs Japan at 10:30 pm on TBS @ Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, Calif.

Champions League see’s Most American’s Eliminated
First it was AC Milan with Pulisic and Musah with a devastating loss at home to Feynord 2-1 knocking them out before the round of 16. Then Celtic with American centerbacks Cameron Carter Vickers and Aaron Trusty showing their quality but still barely losing at Bayern in the closing seconds. And of course the final had my precious Juventus losing a heartbreaking game at home to PSV 3-1 despite a goal from American Tim Weah and a full 120 for McKinney. Of course PSV has 4 American’s but only 1 is playing in RB Ledezma as the others are lost for the season (although Dest might return soon). Either way it was a heartbreaking 2 days leading into the Round of 16 as their were more Americans in the knock-out stages than ever before. As many as 9 American’s started in the knockout rounds and only a couple are moving thru.. 😦

MLS Season Kicks off 30th Season Friday night on Apple

So MLS is back underway in what is Messi’s 3rd year of a 3 yr contract with Inter-Miami. While Messi has sold out stadiums nationwide – MLS refusal to allow his games to be played on normal TV – in my opinion has drastically limited his impact. Yes you still need Apple TV and a $100 MLS Season pass to see MLS regular season games — and most of them are all played at the same time on Saturday nights. Absolutely clueless! I can’t say I am excited for the season — as honestly I watch about 1/10th the # of games I used to watch before Apple. I still love Seattle and try to follow Cincy, Miami and Atlanta United – but its so much easier to watch EPL – lets be honest. Anyway I have included a bunch of stories about MLS, season predictions and more. I will say Champions Cup games are on weeknights on Fox Sports 2 which many people have-I have included them on the TV schedule. Also rumor has it the Sunday night Games might be Free on Apple TV – trying to establish Sunday night Futbol by MLS.

Big Games this Weekend
Liverpool @ Man City on Sun 11:30 am leads the big games this weekend, along with New Castle vs Forest on USA at 9 am. American’s will face off Sat at 10 am on Peacock as Fulham & Robinson hosts Crystal Palace and Chris Richards. AC Milan w/Pulisic & Musah travel to Torino at Sat at 12 on Para+ in a must win, while Juve with Weah/Mckinney play Cagliari on CBS Golazo/Para+ at 2:45 pm on Sunday. MLS has LA vs Minn United on Fox at 4:30 pm Sat along with Miami vs NYCFC at 7:30 pm free on Apple TV.

Champions League round-of-16 draw

Club Brugge vs. Aston Villa
Borussia Dortmund vs. Lille
Real Madrid vs. Atlético Madrid
Bayern Munich vs. Bayer Leverkusen
PSV Eindhoven vs. Arsenal
Feyenoord vs. Inter Milan
Paris Saint-Germain vs. Liverpool
Benfica vs. Barcelona

Great to be back on the field at Grand Park for the Ladies Showcase this weekend with Justin & Clint.

GAMES on TV

MLS Opening Weekend – Apple TV Plus Games are Free this weekend if you have Apple – the others require Apple TV plus MLS Season Package for $99.

US Ladies

Hayes praises Macario’s ‘pride’ in USWNT return
United States beats Colombia to open SheBelieves Cup
Macario’s first goal in three years gives USWNT a level of optimism for 2025 ttps://www.espn.com/soccer/league/_/name/fifa.shebelieves

Champions League

Champions League review: Club Brugge rise as Italians and Americans stumble
Real Madrid never doubted Kylian Mbappe’s quality despite slow start
Pep Guardiola sparks Real Madrid hopes of Champions League glory with post-defeat comments
Mbappe 10, Rudiger 7 | Real Madrid 3-1 Manchester City: Player ratings
⚽️Serie A’s worst in 10 years! Inter remains, but it’s already a failure ⚽️
Ex-Italy star slams ‘mentally dead’ Juventus in ‘deserved’ PSV defeat
💫 The Champions League’s latest Team of the Week has been revealed
Cash register rings in Eindhoven: PSV’s income in the Champions League amounts to 73.5 million euros
Thiago Motta under scrutiny after Juventus’ Champions League exit – report
Juventus boss Thiago Motta defends substitutes decision after Champions League exit
Bayern advances with late goal, while AC Milan gets bounced
Pep Guardiola ‘locked himself inside office’ after Champ League collapse this season, new report reveals
‘Man City’s surrender in Madrid marks end of an era’

MLS – Champs Cup

Champions Cup: Messi leads Miami past SKC; Sounders win in Guatemala
Ice Man: Yes, Lionel Messi can do it on a freezing cold night in Kansas
A LeBron-like takeover in MLS? Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami power play is now

MLS

5️⃣ reasons to be excited about MLS this season
🔮 Previewing the MLS Western Conference ahead of the 2025 season
🔮 Previewing the MLS Eastern Conference ahead of the 2025 season

San Diego FC’s counts on Mexican star Chucky Lozano to be a spark in its debut season
Commentary: Bruce Arena aims to achieve the seemingly impossible with San José
Houston Dynamo sign experienced MLS midfielder Nicolás Lodeiro
MLS rival? New top-tier men’s soccer league coming to the United States
USL announces intention to start new league at same tier as MLS

US MEN

Christian Pulisic responds to Milan exit reports
Pulisic: ‘I’ve never asked to leave Milan’
Report Milan looking to Paratici and Sarri for the future
GdS: Conceicao battling for his Milan future – the one objective he will be judged on

WORLD

Liverpool’s Injury Worries Grow with Gakpo Doubtful For City Clash

Reffing

New Ref Abuse Prevention Policy
Reffing for Carmel Dad’s Club this Spring
Become a Licensed Ref with Indiana Soccer – must be over 13

Goalkeeping

Great Saves Champions League this week
Tuesday’s Best Saves
Inter Milan goalie Yann Sommer injures thumb ahead of key Serie A and Champions League games
Revealed – How Long Inter Milan Goalkeeper To Be Sidelined After Fracturing Thumb
‘I have a really special connection here’ – Dubravka signs new deal

USMNT midweek roundup: Womp womp

The week started with 13 Americans in Champions League, and ends with essentially 2.

By Justin Moran @kickswish Feb 21, 2025, 5:30am PST

AC Milan v Feyenoord - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Knockout Play-off Second Leg

Here’s a bullet-point rundown of the USMNT players whose clubs were in action this week (Monday through Thursday). Well, there were 13 Americans alive in Champions League on Monday, and now it’s down to just 6 (Dest, Tillman, Pepi, Ledezma, Reyna, and Cole Campbell). And of those six, Dest, Tillman, and Pepi are out injured, and Campbell hasn’t been involved with Dortmund’s first team squad in a while. So, it’s basically Reyna and Ledezma now.

I divided players by position groups (for me personally, that helps my depth-chart-oriented brain to process this information most usefully). Within position groups, players are listed in order of when their games took place.

Strikers

19-year-old Kristian Fletcher is on loan at Nottingham Forest from DC United. Fletcher scored for Forest’s U21s on Monday, making it three straight games with a goal.

Kristian Fletcher’s goal for Nottingham Forest’s U21s on Monday. Would prove to be the winner in a 1-0 win over Stoke.

That’s now 3 straight games with a goal for the 19 year old. Really starting to hit his stride pic.twitter.com/UiO4jiZm9I— USMNT Source (@usmntsource) February 19, 2025

Paul Arriola scores the opener for Seattle! #ChampionsCup pic.twitter.com/9npTqCZAxa— Concacaf Champions Cup (@TheChampions) February 20, 2025

Wingers and attacking mids

Brenden Aaronson started and played 78 minutes for Leeds United in a 2-1 win over Sunderland at Elland Park on Monday. The game was 1-1 when Brenden came off the field, Leeds got the winning goal in the fifth minute of stoppage time.
Christian Pulisic started for AC Milan and played 63 minutes in their 1-1 draw with Feyenoord on Tuesday. Pulisic sent in a near-perfect cross to set up Milan’s only goal. Milan lost 1-2 on aggregate, and are eliminated from Champions League.

DREAM START AT THE SAN SIRO!

Santi Giménez stays hot for Milan with a scrappy goal inside the first minute against his former club pic.twitter.com/q2tzmpq9go— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) February 18, 2025

Djordje Mihailovic played the full 90 in the Colorado Rapids’ 2-1 Concacaf Champions Cup win over LAFC on Tuesday, scoring both Colorado goals. First, a penalty, to open the scoring, and then an 80th-minute free kick that curled into the top corner to give the Rapids a 2-1 lead heading into the second leg (highlights).

An absolute stunner by Mihailovic to extend the lead! ⚽ #ChampionsCup pic.twitter.com/2Yf0gal9p0— Concacaf Champions Cup (@TheChampions) February 19, 2025

Gio Reyna played 21 minutes off the bench for Borussia Dortmund in a 0-0 draw with Sporting CP on Wednesday. BVB advanced 3-0 on aggregate, and will continue their Champions League journey.
Cole Campbell was an unused sub for Dortmund against Sporting CP on Wednesday.
Tim Weah played all 120 minutes for Juventus in the 1-3 loss to PSV on Wednesday. Weah scored Juve’s only goal. The goal was initially ruled offside before eventually being given.

Timothy Weah’s first #UCL goal is an absolute THUNDERBOLT to restore Juve’s aggregate lead pic.twitter.com/E7ikJnIfpJ— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) February 19, 2025

Malik Tillman remains out injured for PSV, and missed their 3-1 win over Juventus on Wednesday.
Diego Luna wasn’t in Real Salt Lake’s squad for their 0-0 draw with CS Herediano on Wednesday.
Alex Zendejas played 84 minutes and scored América’s only goal in a 1-1 draw with León on Wednesday.

¡Minuto 10 y Zendejas abre el marcador a nuestro favor! pic.twitter.com/WQBDdttxLa— Club América (@ClubAmerica) February 20, 2025

Taylor Booth subbed on in the 106th minute to play 15 minutes for Twente in a 2-5 loss to Bodø/Glimt on Thursday. Twente lost 4-6 on aggregate, and are out of Europa League.

Center mids

Gianluca Busio played 33 minutes off the bench for Venezia in their 0-2 loss at Genoa on Monday.
Yunus Musah started and played 83 minutes for AC Milan in their 1-1 draw with Feyenoord on Tuesday. Milan lost 1-2 on aggregate, and are knocked out of Champions League.
Weston McKennie played the full 120 minutes for Juventus in the 1-3 loss to PSV on Wednesday, as Juve bowed out of Champions League.
Benja Cremaschi played 11 minutes off the bench for Inter Miami in a 1-0 win over Sporting on Wednesday.
Johnny Cardoso played 31 minutes off the bench for Real Betis in a 0-1 loss to Gent. Betis won the tie 3-1 on aggregate, and are moving on to the next round of Conference League.

Fullbacks

Reggie Cannon started for the Colorado Rapids and was subbed out in the 90th minute of their 2-1 win over LAFC in Concacaf Champions Cup on Tuesday (highlights).
Sergiño Dest was not in PSV’s squad for their 3-1 win over Juventus on Wednesday, but he is back in training!
Richy Ledezma started for PSV and played 78 minutes in the 3-1 win over Juve on Wednesday. A report on X claimed that USMNT staff was at the match, primarily to scout Ledezma.

Center-backs

Cameron Carter-Vickers played the full 90 for Celtic in their 1-1 draw away to Bayern Munich. Alphonso Davies’ goal in the fourth minute of second-half stoppage time was enough to eke out a 3-2 aggregate win for Bayern, knocking Celtic out of Champions League.
Auston Trusty also played the full 90 for Celtic in the 1-1 draw with Bayern.
Jackson Ragen played the full 90 for the Seattle Sounders in the 3-1 away win over Antigua GFC on Wednesday.
Miles Robinson played the full 90 for FC Cincinnati in a 4-1 win over Motagua on Wednesday in Concacaf Champions Cup.
Matt Miazga tore his ACL in October, he missed the Motagua game. FotMob lists him as expected to return in late June.

Goalkeepers

Diego Kochen was an unused sub for FC Barcelona in their 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano at home on Monday.
Zack Steffen played the full 90 for the Colorado Rapids on Tuesday, making 7 saves and allowing one goal (from Aaron Long) in their 2-1 win over LAFC in Concacaf Champions Cup (game highlights).
Drake Callender was not in Inter Miami’s squad for their 1-0 win over Sporting KC on Wednesday. The club stated that he wasn’t 100% fit, making him unavailable for this match, but he appeared to be fully participating in training. Miami signed 38-year-old Argentine ‘keeper Oscar Ustari in September; Ustari got the start against SKC and kept a clean sheet.
Roman Celentano played the full 90 for FC Cincinnati in the 4-1 win over Motagua on Wednesday, making 4 saves (and conceding the one goal, obviously).

What were your takeaways from this weekend? What changes would you make to the format of these articles? Hit the comments to discuss.

MLS Predictions from Around the Web

American’s Tim Weah (who scored) and Weston McKinney were rated the best players in Juve’s loss.

Promising Champions League for USMNT stars turns dire in a flash

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 18: Sergio Conceicao, Head Coach of AC Milan, speaks with his player, Christian Pulisic, during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Knockout Play-off second leg match between AC Milan and Feyenoord at San Siro Stadium on February 18, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

By Jeff Rueter The Athletic Feb 19, 2025

A once-promising UEFA Champions League campaign for Americans took a gruesome turn in the playoff knockout phase of the new-look competition after AC Milan, Juventus and Celtic’s eliminations took out a half dozen U.S. internationals in the process.

Although Borussia Dortmund have two U.S. players on their squad and PSV have four, both Dortmund players are late-game options at best, while PSV’s three-high profile Americans are all injured. The fourth at PSV, Richy Ledezma, started again at right back in Wednesday’s extra-time ouster of Juventus, but the 24-year-old earned his only call-up to the senior national team in 2020 and maintains eligibility for Mexico.In the meantime, high-profile core stars Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah, Tim Weah and Weston McKennie are done with European competition this season, while Celtic center backs and U.S. hopefuls Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty also won’t be tested by the continent’s finest anymore following last-gasp elimination at the hands of Bayern Munich (and Canadian goal-scoring hero Alphonso Davies).The final blow came Wednesday, when PSV outlasted Juventus, 4-3 on aggregate. This was the second consecutive day in which an Eredivisie side knocked off a team from Serie A in dramatic fashion, following Feyenoord’s surprising triumph over Milan.

It appeared Juventus were on their way through in the 63rd minute, when Weah, playing as a right back as he often does for the club, ran onto a cleared corner kick and connected with power and precision from 25 yards out. The linesman initially called the sequence off, spotting an offside Juventus teammate on the initial corner kick, but VAR intervened and left the center official to deem that Kelly did not influence the play in any phase. The awarded goal allowed Weah to become the fifth USMNT player to score in this season’s Champions League.

Weah was impactful throughout his shift, but a 74th-minute goal from Ismael Saibari forced extra time, while Ryan Flamingo put the tie away in the 98th minute on a scramble in front of goal following a well-executed free kick. The result sees PSV through to the round of 16 instead of Juve and another abrupt ending for Americans in Europe following a largely prolific run through the league phase.

With comparatively little laying ahead for marquee USMNT members in the Champions League now – Dortmund’s Gio Reyna and Cole Campbell join the PSV quartet in the last 16 – it’s worth examining how the full contingent fared up until the playoff round, digging into the numbers and finding a relative standing.

Through Wednesday’s knockout playoff second legs, USMNT-eligible players have logged 5,009 minutes across 82 games, with 53 of those shifts coming as starts. When they played, every American player had a record of at least .500 – meaning their teams won at least as many games as they lost when they were involved.Entering the round of 16, USMNT-eligible players’ involvement ranged from Trusty, who logged 815 minutes with Celtic, to Dortmund’s latest Yankee youngster, Cole Campbell, who made one 13-minute cameo. Extra time in Eindhoven helped the group exceed 5,000 minutes of play, comfortably eclipsing the previous high of 3,985 minutes logged in 2021-22. A year earlier, Pulisic became the first American man to play in a Champions League final, helping Chelsea beat Manchester City in Porto. Barring a surprising run to the final by either PSV or Dortmund, he’s likely to retain that distinction into 2025-26.

Understandably, an uptick in playing time helped the group set another record for goals scored in the Champions League by Americans (13; Pulisic led all U.S. scorers with four), an impressive feat reached well before the competition’s final four rounds. For context, American players scored 12 Champions League goals in the previous four editions – combined.

This season’s efforts ehaven’t been garbage-time scoreline-padders, either. Three goals proved to be game-winners, with Pepi swinging matches for PSV with both of his successful strikes and McKennie making the difference for Juventus on one occasion. Tillman, who keyed a comeback vs. Shakhtar Donetsk that Pepi finished off, also swung a result, playing a needed assist to Flamingo during the league phase. Weah’s strike on Wednesday was undoubtedly meaningful, even if its impact was short-lived.

So where does that baker’s dozen place the U.S. in the national golden boot race? Unfortunately, quite far from the podium places — but in impressive standing when given proper context.

Through the tournament’s playoff round, players from the U.S. are tied for the 13th-highest goal return, at level standing with Norway. Ten contingents above them are UEFA-affiliated nations, while the other two (Brazil and Argentina) have long been assimilated into the European game’s highest levels. As such, the U.S. has provided the third-most goals to this year’s Champions League of any non-UEFA nation, while they’ve chipped in more than any country outside of Europe and South America. Japan is next with 12 goals, while Guinea, Nigeria and Morocco are tied at 10.The fellow 2026 World Cup cohosts are a little further down the hierarchy. Canada is tied for 22nd with nine, most recently Davies’ late decider against Celtic, while all six of Mexico’s goals came from Santiago Giménez. The only other goal scored by a Concacaf player came from César Blackman, with the Panama right back scoring once for ŠK Slovan Bratislava.Some rationale for the Americans’ success this year is the inevitable result of the game’s globalization – an increase in opportunities from players who hail from beyond UEFA’s nations.

The new Champions League format also increases the number of paths into the competition. Teams operating a rung below their nation’s title favorites can still claim one of a healthy number of berths into the tournament field — teams of Dortmund, Juventus and Milan’s caliber at present. There is also more consistent access to the tournament for the best teams of perceived second-tier competitions, like the ones often dominated by Celtic and PSV. Any team that reaches the league phase is guaranteed more games than they enjoyed in the old group-stage format, with every participant playing eight games before the first wave of elimination.Still, none of this makes this week’s trio of eliminations any easier to digest. Milan will feel especially disappointed, having nearly finished high enough in the league phase standings to skip the playoff altogether. Ultimately, a tumultuous season that necessitated a December coaching change extended into Europe. Juventus will also rue its missed chances on Wednesday, having been just over a quarter of an hour away from reaching the round of 16. And while Celtic was a mighty underdog in its clash with Bayern, the Scottish giant performed admirably and nearly forced extra time at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday.As such, the USMNT’s best player (Pulisic), one of its most consistent attackers (Weah), two vital midfielders (McKennie and Musah) and two World Cup hopefuls at center back (Carter-Vickers and Trusty) are all left to watch the knockout bracket transpire like the rest of us.Perhaps Reyna has one last star contribution to make for Dortmund. Maybe Ledezma’s shifts at right back will work him into Mauricio Pochettino’s plans. After a week like this, however, those silver linings are hard to spot. The U.S.’s best chances to have another prominent player reach the Champions League final have all failed to materialize.(Top photo: Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

USMNT’s Christian Pulisic denies rift with Milan head coach Sergio Conceicao

MILAN, ITALY - FEBRUARY 18: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Knockout Play-off second leg match between AC Milan and Feyenoord at San Siro Stadium on February 18, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

By Colin Millar Feb 20, 2025

Christian Pulisic has denied any fallout with Milan head coach Sergio Conceicao and described such suggestions as “unacceptable lies”.Conceicao replaced Paulo Fonseca as Milan head coach on December 30 and oversaw a busy January transfer window, when five players — including Mexican striker Santiago Gimenez and loan arrivals of Joao Felix and Kyle Walker — joined the club.

USMNT captain Pulisic has not started the club’s last two Serie A games against Hellas Verona and Empoli, but did play from the start in both of the side’s Champions League play-off games against Feyenoord — which the Italian side lost 2-1 on aggregate.Following suggestions in the Italian media that he had asked to leave the club at the end of the season after a supposed rift with the 50-year-old head coach after last month’s Champions League loss at Dinamo Zagreb, Pulisic has responded via Milan’s social media.“I have never argued with the coach and I have never asked to leave,” Pulisic, 26, said.“I am very happy at Milan and I want to continue wearing this shirt. Reading these lies is unacceptable, but let’s all continue to remain united and fight together on the pitch, for the club and for our fans.”Pulisic has made 33 appearances in total in all competitions this season, scoring 12 goals and adding nine assists.Milan, who are seventh in Serie A, are back in action on Saturday with a league match away at Torino (Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

USWNT 2, Colombia 0: Macario scores in her return, Sentnor stuns with first goal

By Meg Linehan and Jeff Rueter Feb 20, 2025

The U.S. women’s national team’s 2025 opened up with a 2-0 SheBelieves Cup win over Colombia in Houston on Thursday night. Chelsea midfielder Cat Macario and Utah Royals’ Ally Sentnor were the difference for the U.S., the latter scoring in her first start with the senior national team. With plenty of rotation and debuts expected across the friendly tournament from head coach Emma Hayes, and a starting XI that was missing some of the team’s biggest names, the victory was a promising start to what should prove to be a year of evaluation.

Beyond the two goalscorers, midfielder Lily Yohannes had a statement performance, making her first start for the team. Her passing game out of the midfield directly led to Macario’s opening goal, and she proved her mettle defensively against a tough Colombia team. In the waning moments of stoppage time, she nearly connected with Lynn Biyendolo with a pass off the outside of her foot that had a solid chance of being the third goal.

While Hayes has promised that she will allow Yohannes to develop on her own schedule, the 17-year-old’s performance showed she’s perfectly capable of fighting for a more consistent starting role on the USWNT.

Catarina Macario marks her return to the USWNT with a goal against Colombia. (Jack Gorman / Getty Images)

Welcome back Catarina Macario

This has been Macario’s third reintroduction to the USWNT pool, and she took full advantage of the moment. It wasn’t a shock that the European-based players looked a little sharper from the jump on Thursday, but Macario’s connection with Yohannes was immediately promising for the U.S.Her first-half goal was the final touch on a well-worked sequence that started with Yohannes, who sent a ball to Yazmeen Ryan. Streaking in off the right wing to a more central position, Ryan only needed to square it to Macario, who smashed it home from close range. The goal was her first with the national team since April 12, 2022, a whopping 1,045 days.“I just felt like it was a big weight off my shoulders,” Macario told the TBS broadcast after the game. “Just so happy, so thrilled to be scoring for the national team again, to be playing again. … It means the whole world.”It was Macario’s first goal in three years. She missed the 2023 World Cup and 2024 Olympics recovering from an ACL tear.

Macario offers so much more than goal scoring though. Colombia’s physicality didn’t throw her — a promising sign for Macario, who has grappled with injuries for so long — but it did limit her ability to create with the ball at her feet. As Just Women’s Sports reporter Claire Watkins pointed out during the game, Macario’s service on set pieces and corner kicks is something the USWNT could certainly benefit from. It could also potentially free up someone like Mal Swanson. With Megan Rapinoe’s retirement, the team could use a new dedicated set piece maestro, and Macario makes a compelling case.Macario exited in the 64th minute as Hayes continues to evaluate her pool of players. Is the Chelsea midfielder set for a repeat of her 2022 SheBelieves MVP performance? It’s probably going to come down to how many minutes she gets over the next week — but Thursday was a solid start for her 2025 campaign.

— Meg Linehan

Ally Sentnor celebrates scoring her first goal for the U.S. women’s national team. (Brad Smith / Getty Images)

Who is Ally Sentnor?

In a camp full of players looking to work into Hayes’ plans for the coming years, it’s important to make a lasting impression. Sentnor, 21, certainly made her mark on Tuesday, scoring a golazo early in the second half to put the U.S. ahead 2-0.

This year has hardly started, but she arguably submitted the highlight of her budding career in the 60th minute against Colombia on Thursday. Collecting a pass through the midfield from Tara McKeown, Sentnor beat one opponent on her dribble, then a second, as she cut from the left half-space into the central channel. From there, she looked up and saw an opening, uncorking a knuckling shot from over 25 yards out that caught Colombia goalkeeper Katherine Tapia flat-footed as it curled into the far upper corner.

The versatile attacking midfielder, who was Sports Illustrated’s SportsKid of the Year in 2019, a year before USC basketball star JuJu Watkins, played collegiately with the vaunted North Carolina Tar Heels, overcoming a torn ACL in her freshman year to earn first-team All-ACC honors in her two seasons before going pro. She became the final player taken first overall in the NWSL’s draft before it was eliminated in the most recent collective bargaining agreement, landing with the Utah Royals.In 2024, Sentnor kept on shooting. Utah needed her to step up from the opening whistle of its first match, as the club thrust her into a starring role. She relished the responsibility, tapping into the bag of tricks she worked to refine as a youth player. As she told the TBS broadcast, her diminutive size forced her to hone in on her technique, both in terms of dribbling and shooting quickly with power before her opposing mark could contain her.Sentnor kept busy as a rookie, finishing ninth among all NWSL players by attempting 68 shots in 1,866 minutes. She also played a key role for the United States at the U-20 World Cup, scoring three goals en route to a bronze medal finish last year, the nation’s best showing at the tournament since 2012. She was a deserving winner of U.S. Soccer’s Young Female Player of the Year award and earned two senior team appearances late in the year to cap a memorable year.

It was only her first start for Hayes’ side, but with her unpredictable ingenuity, Sentnor is bound to get a few more looks in this tournament and beyond. Two days after celebrating her birthday, it was a performance she and fans won’t soon forget.

— Jeff Rueter

Lily Yohannes earns her first start for the U.S. against Colombia. (Alex Slitz / Getty Images)

The Lily Yohannes era begins

Last year, Yohannes made history, becoming the third-youngest goalscorer in USWNT history. The then-16-year-old midfielder, playing against South Korea in a June friendly, calmly slotted the ball through a congested penalty box and into the net at Allianz Field. Although she didn’t score again on Thursday, her composure on the ball made her an undeniable standout.

The Ajax midfielder made her first start for Hayes in the SheBelieves Cup, donning the number 11 shirt in Sophia Wilson’s absence. It was Yohannes who sparked the sequence leading to Macario’s opening goal, spraying an inch-perfect lobbed pass into Ryan’s path.

Throughout the rest of her shift, she played with control and poise beyond her 17 years. Playing as the chief line-breaker behind Sentnor, Lindsey Heaps, and Ryan, Yohannes continually slotted the ball between Colombian midfielders and defenders. It wasn’t a case of an opponent being oblivious to one repeated trick, either. There were more lobbed balls over the back line and into the wings, as well as through balls rolling up the half-space hit with the outside of her foot and swift first-touch passes to pry the ball off an opponent’s boot.

For the fans who toughed out a brisk night in Houston, it was a display that radiated plenty of promise.

— Rueter

Tara McKeown makes her USWNT debut against Colombia in the SheBelieves Cup. (Maria Lysaker / Getty Images)

Trying out new players

Center backs aren’t often expected to rack up assists from the run of play. Their passing is often limited to short-range circulation, while a healthy portion of their passes are speculative launches that, statistically more often than not, miss their intended target.

As one veteran defender told me years ago: “I’m well aware I’m the last player fans pay to see on the ball.” Making her USWNT debut, Tara McKeown provided a compelling counterargument to that point.

Earning her first senior cap as part of the starting lineup, McKeown played the ball that let Sentnor wreak havoc through Colombia’s midfield en route to her long-range goal. In the hour preceding that sequence, the Washington Spirit defender was tested often by Colombia, with Linda Caicedo and Mayra Ramirez looking particularly eager to test the 25-year-old. The United States’ clean sheet speaks for itself, with McKeown and center back partner Emily Sonnett also keeping possession moving whenever the ball went their way. It was a fine showing that warrants subsequent looks.

Also making her debut, Gisele Thompson came on in the 76th minute. The Angel City left back made her club debut last year, joining her older sister (United States winger Alyssa) to kick off her professional career. By the time she joined the action, the scoreline was already 2-0 with neither team showing the same attacking verve that typified the game’s middle half-hour. With new Arsenal signing Jenna Nighswonger getting the start, we could see Thompson make one of Hayes’ two remaining starting lineups at the SheBelieves Cup.

— Rueter

What’s next?

In the first match of the SheBelieves Cup, Japan throttled Australia with a 4-0 victory. Royals forward Mina Tanaka was a standout, scoring a brace and adding an assist in the win. Thanks to the goal differential, Japan is currently atop the table for the tournament, followed by the U.S.

SheBelieves Cup continues on Sunday.

Sunday, Feb. 23

State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona

Colombia vs. Japan – noon MT / 2 p.m. ET
USA vs. Australia – 3 p.m. MT / 5 p.m. ET

Catarina Macario and the USWNT moment she’s been working towards for years

HOUSTON, TEXAS - FEBRUARY 20: Catarina Macario #20 of USA celebrates the teams first goal with teammates in the first half in front of Jorelyn Carabali #16 of Colombia during the 2025 SheBelieves Cup at Shell Energy Stadium on February 20, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Jack Gorman/Getty Images)

By Melanie Anzidei Feb 21, 2025

HOUSTON—For Catarina Macario, the euphoria she felt makes the moment hard to remember.Seventeen-year-old Lily Yohannes had just floated the ball to fellow striker Yazmeen Ryan, who only needed a simple touch to put the ball exactly where Macario knew she needed to be. In one swift motion, Macario shot the ball past Colombia’s goalkeeper, finding the back of the net like she’d done countless times before. This time, though, was special.Macario’s return to the pitch is, of course, a significant milestone. The team’s overall performance against Colombia is also another, as Hayes continues to emphasize player development and experimenting with their roster.The sequence between Yohannes, Ryan and Macario was the first time the trio had played together in a competitive setting. Despite their limited experiences during practice, their chemistry offered a promising glimpse into the possibilities that lay ahead for the national team and its growing player pipeline.“That’s what I was most proud of tonight,” Hayes said. “The team kept really good structure considering they haven’t played together before. What I’ve learned from coaching is, the better structured your teams are, especially at the higher level, the better they feel about expressing themselves within it – but you have to give them that foundation.”

Hayes was happy with the performance (Jack Gorman/Getty Images)

That foundation appears to be bubbling.

Macario’s goal in the 33rd minute came just as the U.S. was finding its footing on the pitch against Colombia. This momentum continued into the second half, punctuated by Ally Sentnor scoring the team’s second goal in the 60th minute. This marked her first international goal, from an assist by Tara McKeown, who also enjoyed her national team debut that night.

“I felt it was a really important goal to really help us finish off the game,” said captain Emily Sonnett, who was honored for her 100th cap ahead of the game. “But I think that just really speaks to the younger players who are coming in, coming off the bench, but also how deep the pool is right now.”

When Sentnor scored from outside the box, universal joy was evident on the players’ faces. The stadium erupted as players embraced the 21-year-old. Macario’s smile was so wide it was as if she had just scored another goal, too.

“That’s such a big moment,” Macario said. “Whenever anyone scores the first goal for the national team, that’s unforgettable.”

Macario exited the match four minutes later, with an emotional Hayes embracing her for her own unforgettable moment.

Hayes recalled telling her: “Everybody is super happy, super proud, and I’m sure everybody back in Chelsea is, too.”

(Top photo: Jack Gorman/Getty Images)

1/24/25 USMNT Wins both games, Champions League Drama wraps Wed 3 pm, Full UCL Explanation of what’s next, Huge games for American’s overseas along with Man City vs Chelsea Sat.

January 24, 2025January 27, 2025 gatorbest champions-league, football, premier-league, soccer, us-soccer, usmnt

US wins twice and may have found some diamonds in the Rough in January

U.S. got excellent games from both of its No. 9s. Patrick Agyemang tallied in both games, while Brian White opened the scoring against Costa Rica. Young Philly Midfielder Jack McGlynn was arguably the best player in camp and had a goal and assist vs Venezuela & a solid 45 min vs Costa Rica. Patrick Agyemang Goal vs Costa Rica Jack McGlynn goal vs Venezuela. Luna finally got his chance and impressed assisting a goal 2 min after he returned from a broken nose – Poch Funny on Luna Broken Nose & Grit. Brian Jones also looked good at left back and might have earned a callup behind the US best defender Jedi Robinson. I also thought Veteran GK Zach Steffen of Colorado was excellent (Great Save Zach Steffen vs Costa Rica) and might give Matt Turner a run for the gloves in March when the US hosts the Nations League semi-finals. Here are highlights for both games in case you missed. USA vs Venzuela Highlights USA vs Costa Rica Full Highlights .

Lots of stories below.

A big Thanks for those who have Re-Certified to Ref In 2025 – like me – I can’t wait to get back on the fields in February!

Champions League Drama Continues until the last Matchday of the First Round Wed at 3 pm on Para+

Wow amazing to see PSG come back in the last few minutes to almost eliminate Man City from the competition. What an amazing final day of action it will be as automatic places in the top 8 and top 24 are still up for grabs. The Top 8 of which only Liverpool and Barcelona have secured will get the month of Feb off – while #s 9-24 battle it out for the final 8 slots in the Sweet 16 in March. All of the final day games of group play will be on Wed at 3 pm on Paramount+. Full details & Stories below.

UEFA Champions League permutations: Which teams can qualify for last 16? Who could get knocked out?

Going to be An Exciting Wed afternoon this week Final Day of Group Stages – so many slots open

US Men

Agyemang & Co. make January case for future USMNT involvement
USMNT cruises past CONCACAF rivals Costa Rica in friendly showdown
Steffen’s return sparks USMNT win over Costa Rica
United States men beat Costa Rica as Agyemang strikes again
USA 3-0 Costa Rica – A fun win to end the 2025 January window
USA vs. Venezuela, 2025 friendly: Man of the Match

How to rate USMNT’s win in friendly vs. Venezuela
MLS-heavy USMNT side claims win over Venezuela
Luna’s unconventional route has led him to USMNT opportunity

US Ladies & NWSL

USWNT’s Naomi Girma pioneering $1M transfer should surprise nobody
NWSL releases 2025 schedule: Decision Day returns, regular season longer than ever
Ask your WSL transfer deadline day questions

Champions League 1/29 3 pm

UEFA Champions League permutations: Which teams can qualify for last 16? Who could get knocked out?
UCL yields final-day conclusion: Man City must win after PSG collapse
Pep: City down to ‘last chance’ to avoid UCL exit
4 bad stats that have Man City on brink of Champions League exitSquawka
Maresca: Man City rival Guardiola needs support
Roma fall to sixth place in UEFA standings
Ancelotti: ‘Good news’ for Madrid if City exit UCL
Leão earns AC Milan narrow win over Girona
Bayern stunned by Feyenoord, facing playoff round
Celtic beat Young Boys, reach UCL knockout stage

Champions League Table & chances to advance Going Into the Final Opening Round Games Wed, Jan 29 3 pm on Para +

World

Preview: Chelsea Travel to Man City for High-Stakes Premier League Game
Five reasons PL’s ‘Big Six’ era is over
FA blocks Wrexham’s chance to compete in Europe
Kyle Walker completes loan move to AC Milan

Reffing

A big Thanks for those who have Re-Certified to Ref In 2025
Norwegian leagues vote to scrap VAR after widespread fan backlash
Bad Decision Does Not Mean you’re a Bad Ref
Become a Licensed Ref with Indiana Soccer – must be over 13

GAMES ON TV

Wednesday – 1/29 Champions League Final Group Matchday

Dinamo Zagreb vs AC Milan, 3p on Paramount+, ViX: Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah, and Milan look to solidify their top 8 place in Champions League.
Juventus vs Benfica, 3p on Paramount+, CBS Sports Network, FuboTV (free trial), ViX: Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, and Juve are 17th of 36 in Champions League going into this final matchday.
PSV Eindhoven vs Liverpool FC, 3p on Paramount+, ViX: Ricardo Pepi, Richy Ledezma, Esmir Bajraktarević, and PSV are 19th of 36 in the Champions League.
Borussia Dortmund vs Shakhtar Donetsk, 3p on Paramount+, ViX: Gio Reyna, Cole Campbell, and BVB are 14th of 36 in Champions League.
Aston Villa vs Celtic, 3p on Paramount+, ViX: Cameron Carter-Vickers, Auston Trusty, and Celtic are 18th in Champions League.

VfB Stuttgart vs PSG, 3p on Paramount+, ViX: Anrie Chase and Stuttgart are barely inside the playoff places, and can’t afford to lose their match as the UCL league phase draws to a close.

Thursday

Lyon vs Ludogorets, 3p on Paramount+, ViX: Tanner Tessmann and Lyon are 5th in Europa League standings, but can’t afford to rest on their laurels this final matchday.
Roma vs Frankfurt, 3p on Paramount+, CBS Sports Network, TUDN USA, UniMás, FuboTV, ViX: Nathaniel Brown may miss this match due to illness, but he and Frankfurt are fairly comfortable in second place of Europe League, and should advance.

USMNT weekend viewing guide: Grab a cup of joe

There is a solid lineup of matches this weekend including an early start on Sunday if you want to catch the Milan duo in action. So grab your coffee and let’s get rolling.

Saturday

Norwich City v Swansea City – 7:30a on Paramount+

Josh Sargent has returned from a two month layoff to appear in the last two Norwich matches though both have been losses, most recently 2-0 to league leading Leeds United. Norwich were in eighth place when Sargent went out but have fallen to twelfth place and will face fifteenth place Swansea City this weekend.

Mallorca v Real Betis – 8a on ESPN Deportes and ESPN+

Johnny Cardoso has started six straight matches across all competitions but Betis have lost the past three including a 5-1 Copa del Ray thumping at the hands of Barcelona and, perhaps more concerning, losses in La Liga play to relegation threatened Real Valladolid and Deportivo Alaves. Betis travel to Mallorca this weekend to take on the sixth place side that have suffered a three match loosing streak themselves.

Borussia Dortmund v Werder Bremen – 9:30a on ESPN+

Borussia Dortmund are going through another rough stretch, losing four straight across all competitions and have decided to move on from Nuri Sahin so american’s Gio Reyna and Cole Campbell will start life under a new manager on Saturday, though Mike Tullberg has the role only on an interim basis. Reyna has appeared in eleven straight since returning from injury, including starts in Champions League action at Bologna and hosting Barcelona. BVB face ninth place Werder Bremen who are a point ahead of them in the Bundesliga table heading into the weekend.

Mainz 05 v Stuttgart – 9:30a on ESPN+

Lennard Maloney has moved out of the relegation playoff spot and up to sixth place in the Bundesliga table thanks to a transfer that has him moving to sixth place Mainz. Mainz face off against fourth place Stuttgart this weekend who hold a one point lead over Leipzig for the final Champions League spot.

Bournemouth v Nottingham Forest – 10a on USA Network

Tyler Adams went 90 minutes again last weekend and picked up an assist in Bournemouth’s 4-1 win over Newcastle. The win moved Bournemouth into seventh place, a point back of Newcastle and Manchester City. They now take on Nottingham Forest, who obviously are in third place, and tied on points with second place Arsenal.

Napoli v Juventus – Noon on Paramount+

Tim Weah came on as a halftime substitute for Juventus last weekend and scored his fifth Serie A goal of the season as Juventus defeated AC Milan 2-0. Weah then started midweek as Juve settled for the draw with Club Brugge in Champions League action. Weston McKennie started last weekend and went the full 90, then came off the bench on Tuesday with Juventus looking for the decisive goal. Juventus face league leading Napoli this weekend, the teams played to a scoreless draw the last time they met, back in late September.

Borussia Monchengladbach v Bochum – 12:30p on ESPN+

Joe Scally got a rare match off last weekend as Borussia Monchengladbach fell to Bayer Leverkusen 3-1. Scally had started every match for Gladbach heading into last weekend. Gladbach will be looking to snap a three match loosing streak as they face last place Bochum this weekend.

PSV v NAC Breda – 12:45p on ESPN+

Richard Ledezma was the only member of the USMNT trio starting for PSV last weekend as they fell to PEC Zwolle 3-1 with Ricardo Pepi coming in off the bench and Malik Tillman not included in the squad. PSV bounced back midweek, hanging on for a 3-2 away win over Red Star Belgrade despite playing nearly half the match down a man. With the league loss last weekend PSV’s lead for first place is down to just one point over Ajax.

Sunday

AC Milan v Parma – 6:30a on Paramount+

Christian Pulisic missed out on Milan’s matchup with Juventus last weekend but did get 15’ off the bench midweek in their 1-0 win over Girona. Yunus Musah started both matches on the right side. After the loss last weekend Milan are in eighth place in the Serie A table and need to string together some wins in the second half if they are going to qualify again for Champions League play.

Crystal Palace v Brentford – 9a on Peacock

Chris Richards has started four straight including last weekend’s 2-0 win over West Ham. Palace have ten points from those four matches and have moved into 12th place, a point ahead of West Ham and Manchester United and a point back of this weekend’s opponent, Brentford, who are coming off a 2-0 loss to Liverpool.

Toulouse v Montpellier – 11:15a on beIN Sports

Mark McKenzie continues to start for Toulouse, he’s nearing 1,500 minutes already halfway through the season. Toulouse and Lyon played to a scoreless draw last weekend as Toulouse remains in eighth place heading into their match against bottom of the table Montpellier who they defeated 3-0 earlier this season.

St Pauli v Union Berlin – 11:30a on ESPN+

James Sands got his first start for St. Pauli last weekend since joining the club two weeks ago. St Pauli defeated Heidenheim 2-0 in the match to pulll three points clear of them and out of the relegation zone. They remain three points back of this weekend’s opponent, Union Berlin and Jordan Pefok who are in 13th place. Pefok has started three straight matches, including last weekend’s 2-1 win over Mainz, snapping a ten match winless streak. Pefok is still looking for his first goal on the season.

Fulham v Manchester United – 2p on USA Network

Antonee Robinson and Fulham were winners again last weekend, defeating Leicester 2-0 to maintain their top ten position in the EPL. Robinson again wore the captains armband which he has been sporting quite a bit lately. Fulham have a seven point lead over this weekend’s opponent, Manchester United, who defeated Rangers on Thursday in Europa League action but fell to Brighton & Hove Albion last weekend in league play.

=======RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ===

Looking for a good summer meal? Try out the Best BarBQ in Town right across the street (131st) from Northview Church on the corner of Hazelldell & 131st. RackZ BBQ

Save 20% on your order

(mention the ole ballcoach)

======================RackZ BAR BQ ====Save 20% ======================

Which teams are in the hunt to qualify automatically for the Champions League last 16?

18 teams are still able to finish in the top eight and qualify automatically for the last 16:

Arsenal, Bayer Leverkusen, Aston Vila, Inter Milan, Brest, Lille, Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, AC Milan, Atalanta, Juventus, Benfica, Monaco, Sporting Lisbon, Feyenoord, Club Brugge, Real Madrid, Celtic, PSV Eindhoven and Club Brugge

Which teams cannot advance to the last 16 automatically, but can still reach the playoff round?

Benfica, Paris Saint-Germain, Sporting CP, Stuttgart, Manchester City, Dinamo Zagreb, Shakhtar Donetsk

Which teams have been eliminated from the Champions League?

Young Boys, Slovan Bratislava, Red Bull Salzburg, Sturm Graz, Red Star Belgrade, Girona, RB Leipzig, Sparta Prague and Bologna cannot qualify for the playoff round and will be eliminated from Europe (no dropping down to the Europa League anymore) for the rest of the season.

UEFA Champions League tables — Latest standings from 2024-25 league phase

Top eight spots qualify directly for knockout rounds
Positions 9-24 are matched up in two-legged playoff ties
Positions 25-36 are eliminated from all European competitions

Liverpool — 7-0-0 — +13 GD — 21 points — Advance to round of 16 (seeded)
Barcelona — 6-0-1 — +15 GD — 18 points — Advance to round of 16 (seeded)
Arsenal — 5-1-1 — +12 GD — 16 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (seeded)
Inter Milan — 5-1-1 — +7 GD — 16 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (seeded)
Atletico Madrid — 5-0-2 — +11 GD — 15 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (unseeded)
AC Milan — 5-0-2 — +4 GD — 15 points Assured of at least a playoff spot (unseeded)
Atalanta — 4-2-1 — +14 GD — 14 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (unseeded)
Bayer Leverkusen — 4-1-2 — +6 GD — 13 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (unseeded)
Aston Villa — 4-1-2 — +5 GD — 13 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (unseeded)
AS Monaco — 4-1-2 — +3 GD — 13 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (unseeded)
Feyenoord — 4-1-2 — +2 GD — 13 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (unseeded)
Lille — 4-1-2 — +2 GD — 13 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (unseeded)
Brest — 4-1-2 — +2 GD — 13 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (unseeded)
Borussia Dortmund — 4-0-3 — +8 GD — 12 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (unseeded)
Bayern Munich — 4-0-3 — +6 GD — 12 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (unseeded)
Real Madrid — 4-0-3 — +5 GD — 12 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (unseeded)
Juventus — 3-3-1 — +4 GD — 12 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (unseeded)
Celtic — 3-3-1 — +1 GD — 12 points — Assured of at least a playoff spot (unseeded)
PSV Eindhoven — 3-2-2 — +3 GD — 11 points
Club Brugge — 3-2-2 — -2 GD — 11 points
Benfica — 3-1-3 — +3 GD — 11 points
Paris Saint-Germain — 3-1-3 — +2 GD — 10 points
Sporting Lisbon — 3-1-3 — +1 GD — 10 points
Stuttgart — 3-1-3 — -1 GD — 10 points
Manchester City — 2-1-4 — +2 GD — 8 points — Can’t qualify for last 16 directly, but may reach playoff round (unseeded)
Dinamo Zagreb — 2-2-3 — -8 GD — 8 points — Can’t qualify for last 16 directly, but may reach playoff round (unseeded)
Shakhtar Donetsk — 2-1-4 — -6 GD — 7 points — Can’t qualify for last 16 directly, but may reach playoff round (unseeded)
Bologna — 1-2-4 — -5 GD — 5 points — Eliminated
Sparta Prague — 1-1-5 — -12 GD — 4 points — Eliminated
RB Leipzig — 1-0-6 — -6 GD — 3 points — Eliminated
Girona — 1-0-6 — -7 GD — 3 points — Eliminated
Red Star Belgrade — 1-0-6 — -10 GD — 3 points — Eliminated
Sturm Graz — 1-0-6 — -10 GD — 3 points — Eliminated
Red Bull Salzburg — 1-0-6 — -15 GD — 3 points — Eliminated
Slovan Bratislava — 0-0-7 — -18 GD — 0 points — Eliminated
Young Boys — 0-0-7 — -20 GD — 0 points — Eliminated

Agyemang & Co. make January case for future USMNT involvement

Jeff CarlisleJan 23, 2025, 09:51 AM ET ESPN

The annual January camp for the U.S. men’s national team has reached its conclusion, and while the full scope of its success or failure won’t be known for some time, the initial reaction is positive. The USMNT came away with wins over Venezuela and Costa Rica by 3-1 and 3-0 scores, respectively. The U.S. looked solid on both sides of the ball and was deserving of its victories.

Yet the takeaways from these matches skew more toward individual performances than the result, although the two often go hand in hand. And while those initial assessments usually focus on up-and-comers, there is an opportunity for the revival of some international careers that were thought to be dormant. It is those players who often have a better chance of an immediate recall than some of the newbies. That’s as good a spot as any to lead off with in terms of which players were the winners of the camp.

Steffen makes his case to be No. 1

Matt Turner has been solid in his recent USMNT performances, but his lack of playing time with Crystal Palace has left enough of an opening that a goalkeeper hitting top form could make a push to take over. Based on Wednesday’s encounter against the Ticos, Zack Steffen could very well be the player to provide that challenge. The Colorado Rapids No. 1 certainly has plenty of experience. He was the starter for much of the 2022 cycle before losing his spot to Turner, which was followed by Steffen’s shocking omission from the World Cup roster. The way back has been difficult. Desperately in need of playing time, and coming off a knee injury, Steffen had to give up on his European dream to return to MLS. There were certainly some early struggles in Colorado, but Steffen has been on U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino’s radar since the Argentine was hired, coming into both of the previous camps, although he didn’t see the field. Given that the January matches were played outside of an international window, an opportunity beckoned against Costa Rica, and Steffen took full advantage.

Editor’s Picks

Luna’s unconventional route has led him to USMNT opportunity3dJeff Carlisle
Ranking the USMNT’s top 15 prospects age 21 or younger, from Europe to MLS 8dRyan O’Hanlon
Can Pochettino really transform the USMNT’s mentality — and how will he do it?11dLizzy Becherano and Jeff Carlisle

Steffen’s appearance on Wednesday was his first in a USMNT uniform since the end of 2022 World Cup qualifying, when the Ticos beat the U.S. His memories of this window’s match were far brighter. Steffen delivered three saves on the night, two of which were outstanding efforts to deny Alejandro Bran in the 37th minute and Allan Cruz 11 minutes after halftime. This is just a first step. As Pochettino put it with regard to all the players in the January camp, “They need to push themselves now, they need to come back to their clubs and be the best.” Steffen appears to be ready.

A tale of two strikers

Over the course of the two games, the U.S. got excellent performances from both of its No. 9s. Patrick Agyemang tallied in both games, while Brian White opened the scoring against Costa Rica. Of the two, White is the more polished performer. The timing of his runs is better and his movements more subtle. That sense of anticipation explains how he has been able to score 71 goals in 196 league and cup appearances, first with the New York Red Bulls and more recently with the Vancouver Whitecaps. It makes sense. At age 28, White is entering his eighth professional season compared to Agyemang, who is beginning his third. Agyemang has the higher upside, though. He’s four years younger, and at 6-foot-4, he has the kind of frame — as well as deceptive mobility — that is a nightmare for defenders to deal with. It’s expected that he’ll become more refined as he adds experience.

RSL pair shine in midfield

If there was one enduring image of this January camp, it was the sight of Diego Luna with cotton stuffed up his nostrils after suffering a broken nose thanks to a wayward elbow from Creichel Pérez. Then, just seconds after re-entering the match because of his injury, it was Luna who received the ball in midfield, ran at the Ticos’ defense, and laid in a perfect through ball for White to latch onto and finish. Luna’s perseverance personified the competitiveness and spirit that Pochettino has been preaching since he took the job last September. Afterwards, during a postgame interview with TNT, Pochettino said that Luna had “big balls,” which sent the TNT crew into howls of laughter. In his subsequent interview with the rest of the media, Pochettino’s comments were more G-rated.[Luna] showed great character because he wanted to stay,” the U.S. manager said. “He wanted to play.”he only pity was that Luna did have to come off at halftime because of his injury. Yet his 45-minute stint showed enough for Pochettino to at least keep an eye on the Real Salt Lake midfielder going forward. Luna is ready for the next step and remains the most intriguing prospect to come out of the January camp. He was by no means the only midfielder to shine, though. Emeka Eneli, Luna’s club teammate, was a force in more of a defensive midfield role, providing plenty of steel against a side known for its bite. Eneli also proved adept at connecting his passes and assisted on the second U.S. goal, a very sharp finish from Caden Clark. That said, Eneli looked a bit labored at times in terms of his recovery defense. It is still preseason for all of these players, which explains why there were some uneven displays from the likes of Matko Miljevic, Indiana Vassilev and Benjamin Cremaschi.

Jack McGlynn proved to be arguably the player of the camp, riding his goal and assist against Venezuela into another composed performance in 45 minutes of work against Costa Rica. Not only was his passing sharp, but his eight recoveries led the team. Fresh faces emerge to challenge familiar backline

The U.S. defense contained more familiar names than any other part of the field, and Shaq Moore, Tim Ream, Miles Robinson and Walker Zimmerman all acquitted themselves well across two matches. The only goal conceded came from a set piece. It was a pair of relative newcomers who caught the eye, though. George Campbell looked strong against Venezuela, even when he ventured forward. DeJuan Jones earned his 10th cap and was given license to get forward as much as possible from left-back. He took advantage, and dazzled with a gorgeous, outside-of-the-foot pass that sprung Agyemang for his stoppage-time tally. Will it be enough to get called up in March for the Nations League semifinals? Jones finds himself battling a numbers game, as do many of his teammates in this camp. There just don’t appear to be too many spots open, but Pochettino has accumulated plenty of data. For the likes of Steffen, McGlynn, Agyemang and Luna, there is a greater level of comfort at bringing them into the full team should the situation arise.

USMNT beats Costa Rica 3-0 with goals from Brian White, Caden Clark and Patrick Agyemang

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - JANUARY 22: Patrick Agyemang #7 of the United States celebrates scoring with Tim Ream #13 during the second half against Costa Rica during an international friendly at Inter&Co Stadium on January 22, 2025 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by John Dorton/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images for USSF)

By Felipe Cardenas Jan 22, 2025 The Athletic

The U.S. men’s national team recorded a 3-0 win over CONCACAF rivals Costa Rica on Wednesday in Orlando. It was the second consecutive win for Mauricio Pochettino’s reserve squad. Goals from Brian White, Caden Clark and Patrick Agyemang spearheaded the team’s second consecutive win in less than a week.The U.S. team started its January camp matches last Saturday with a 3-1 win over Venezuela in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Pochettino will be pleased with the side’s effort and comprehension of his ideas. Across two matches, the U.S. was generally well-organized and committed to Pochettino’s high-intensity style of play. The Americans were sharper and more direct than both of their opponents, both of whom fielded experimental teams.But for Pochettino, the objective was to win both matches. It sounds simple, but the Argentine head coach has made a habit of referring to the expectation to win that dominates American sports culture. Against Costa Rica, creative midfielder Diego Luna, a player who has not yet maximized his opportunities with the national team, produced the first goal of the night. After taking an inadvertent elbow to his nose in the 17th minute, which left him bloodied, the Real Salt Lake No. 10 threaded a pass to White three minutes later.After the match, Pochettino told TNT’s crew exactly what the conversation with Luna on the sideline sounded like.

“I was very surprised because his nose was broken,” said Pochettino. “I didn’t want to say too much. He said ‘Please coach let me keep playing.’ I asked the doctor who said it was okay. The first action (Luna) had an assist and we scored. I said ‘big balls.’ He showed great character.”

In his first start with the national team since 2022, goalkeeper Zack Steffen made two spectacular saves to keep Costa Rica at bay, including an opposite-hand save while fully stretched. It was a solid performance for Steffen whose form has gradually gotten better since joining the Colorado Rapids in 2024. Steffen was supported by an experienced back line that featured Miles Robinson, Tim Ream and Walker Zimmerman.

In the 78th minute, Clark smashed a left-footed strike into the top corner of the Costa Rican net to end a spell of disjointed play from both teams. Poor giveaways and sloppy play affected the second half, but Clark and Ageymang put the game on ice. It was a fair result.“We are very very happy. It was a good performance, very professional,” Pochettino told TNT after the match. “To work with new players and try to find the way to perform with good lines and the quality we showed today, this team when I watch, it looks like we’ve worked (together) for six months. The attitude and capacity to adapt to new ideas has been amazing. The (players) are pushing to be in the national team.”

January camp has come to an end and while not many headlines were made over the last month, plenty of players earned valuable minutes under the new U.S. manager. Pochettino and his staff will now focus on preparation for the semifinal round of the CONCACAF Nations League in March. The U.S. will face Panama on March 20 in Los Angeles, while the other semifinal pits Mexico against Canada.

USMNT beats Venezuela 3-1 in friendly to open 2025: Who stood out?

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - JANUARY 18: Patrick Agyemang #7 of the United States celebrates scoring with teammates Max Arfsten #15 and Brian Gutiérrez #17 during the first half against Venezuela at Chase Stadium on January 18, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by John Dorton/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images for USSF)

By Jeff Rueter Jan 18, 2025 The Athletic

The United States men’s national team won its first game of 2025, beating Venezuela 3-1 in a friendly at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. A pair of goals late in the first half gave the hosts a comfortable lead heading into the break.

The crowd seemed to skew favorably for the South American visitors, with their efforts to progress upfield garnering far louder support than the home side. Although Venezuela was able to sully the USMNT’s efforts to keep a clean sheet, La Vinotinto didn’t seem particularly likely to threaten the result at any stage.

A host of fresh faces

The international friendly came in the middle of the USMNT’s annual January camp. Mauricio Pochettino gave eight players their senior debuts in the fixture, while all three goalscorers opened their international accounts Saturday.

The United States worked to strike early, with Charlotte FC forward Patrick Agyemang drawing a penalty in the second minute. Matko Miljevic, a midfielder who is currently without a club, stepped up to take the penalty kick, with a poor effort being comfortably saved by goalkeeper Wuilker Faríñez. Philadelphia Union homegrown midfielder Jack McGlynn found a breakthrough in the 37th minute, scoring his first goal in his second USMNT cap by placing a shot from roughly 30 yards out just inside the post.

WHAT A MOMENT. WHAT A GOAL!

Jack McGlynn puts us ahead in style!#USMNT x @VW pic.twitter.com/2lVHMGRURJ

— U.S. Soccer Men’s National Team (@USMNT) January 18, 2025

Agyemang scored on his debut two minutes later, finishing a one-man fast break by outrunning his defensive mark before catching Faríñez with his legs akimbo for a tidy nutmegged finish. The goal saw Miljevic get credited for an assist, as his defensive disruption sprung the ball free into Agyemang’s path.

“Such a surreal moment,” Agyemang told TNT after the game. “I think every kid dreams to make a debut for their national team. To be able to score, I can’t put it into words. I think the excitement is still there. I can’t even believe it.”

Miljevic got a debut goal of his own in the 64th minute, progressing the ball into the attacking third and passing wide to McGlynn before running toward the top of the box and placing a finish to Faríñez’s far post.

All players to debut Saturday were: Agyemang, Miljevic, George Campbell (defender, CF Montréal), Max Arfsten (defender, Columbus Crew), Brian Gutiérrez (midfielder, Chicago Fire), Caden Clark (midfielder, CF Montréal), Emeka Eneli (midfielder, Real Salt Lake) and Indiana Vassilev (forward, St. Louis City).

An emphatic introduction

Agyemang could not have made a stronger first impression under Pochettino. The Charlotte forward was among the biggest breakout domestic players in the 2024 MLS season, scoring 10 goals and adding five assists, outperforming his expected goals by +1.74.

The 24-year-old striker carried that momentum to start 2025 off right. His movement frustrated the Venezuela defense throughout his 65-minute shift, from the drawn penalty two minutes into the match to his goal just over half an hour later.

UNSTOPPABLE from Patrick Agyemang to double the lead!#USMNT x @VW pic.twitter.com/BxMB1B16Lx

— U.S. Soccer Men’s National Team (@USMNT) January 18, 2025

After the game, Agyemang was all smiles speaking with the TNT pitchside analysts. After USMNT legend Damarcus Beasley gave a helpful hint as to how to hold the broadcast microphone, the striker spoke about the confidence Pochettino seemed to display ahead of his debut.

“Obviously, it’s a little intimidating coming into your first camp,” Agyemang said. “Pochettino told me straight away, ‘I like your game. I want you to play exactly how you know to play. Don’t have to feel pressure to do anything specific. Know your defensive roles, but at the end of the day, just show what you can do.’ And I was able to do stuff.”Striker is among the strongest and deepest positions in the USMNT pool these days. Folarin Balogun, Josh Sargent and Ricardo Pepi are regularly called into camps and scoring with their clubs when healthy, while Brandon Vázquez returned to MLS to ensure he was a club’s main man during the final 17 months before the 2026 World Cup.Still, Agyemang could feasibly work into Pochettino’s plans in short order. Standing 6-feet-4, he became the tallest USMNT goalscorer in eight years and is a threat to win aerial balls given his size. However, he profiles more closely to Balogun’s approach to the role, a more finesse-based forward who can sprint past any opponent and prefers having the ball played to his feet rather than winning headers in the box and in build-up like Pepi, Sargent and Vázquez.(Photo: John Dorton / ISI Photos / USSF / Getty Images)

Champions League projections: Are we heading for El Clasico in the last 16?

By Thom Harris Jan 23, 2025 The Athletic

With just one round of fixtures remaining of the inaugural 36-team Champions League league phase, two-thirds of the competition are still awaiting their fate. Nine teams, including Girona, RB Leipzig and Bologna, are definitely out. One club — PSV — will definitely finish between ninth and 24th, consigning them to a two-legged play-off in February, while Liverpool and Barcelona are safely through to the round of 16. For everyone else, it comes down to the last game.All 18 fixtures take place at 8pm GMT (3pm ET) on Wednesday. With an average of 58 goals across the previous gameweeks and so many sides jostling for position, get ready for two chaotic hours. ith the help of The Athletic’s Opta-powered Champions League projections, we attempt to map out the final day.

City still have it in their hands

For all the drama of Manchester City’s spectacular collapse in Paris — the ninth time they have lost after leading this season — it leaves Pep Guardiola’s side in much the same position as where they started.

Their chances of elimination before kick-off were down at nine per cent according to The Athletic’s projections; that has jumped to 36 per cent following their 4-2 defeat, but the picture remains clear. Beat Club Brugge on Wednesday and City are through. Anything less and they suffer an incredibly embarrassing early exit.

Matters are slightly more complicated for Paris Saint-Germain, but a win over Stuttgart on the final day will do it. They should also be through with a draw given one of Club Brugge and City, who face each other, will finish below them — either City on points or Brugge on goal difference.

That being said, a trip to take on last season’s Bundesliga runners-up will not be straightforward. Stuttgart are also chasing points — or at least protecting their goal difference — to confirm their passage through. Sebastian Hoeness’ side have hit good form in recent weeks, with a comfortable 3-1 win over Slovan Bratislava making it four victories in a row and Deniz Undav and Jamie Leweling recovering from injuries over the winter break.

Will Guardiola and Luis Enrique’s sides both make it through to the knockout stage? (Franck Fife/AFP via Getty Images)

The real fun starts when trying to predict potential opponents for the knockout games. City’s most likely position is 21st, meaning they would play the 11th- or 12th-placed team in their play-off. According to the projections, that is most likely to be Bayern Munich or Juventus — but 18 other teams could finish in either of those two positions and City could finish in a further eight qualifying spots.As it stands, Liverpool and Barcelona’s reward for finishing first and second would be a heavyweight last-16 tie with one of Bayern, Real Madrid, Barcelona or Celtic.Fortunately for Arne Slot and Hansi Flick, the table should shift significantly on matchday eight.

Barcelona’s legendary turnaround

Despite seven wins from seven, having conceded just two goals, Liverpool still do not have top spot sewn up, but it took another minor miracle to take it to the final day.With a sensational 5-4 win over Benfica — twice coming from two goals down before securing a stoppage-time win — Barcelona sealed their place in the top eight, still with a 9.9 per cent chance of overtaking the league leaders on the final day per The Athletic’s projections. They need to beat Atalanta and hope Arne Slot’s side are defeated at his former Eredivisie title rivals PSV.Barcelona’s comeback was extraordinary in more ways than one. This was only the second time a team have won a Champions League game despite conceding four goals — along with Borussia Dortmund’s 8-4 win over Legia Warsaw in November 2016 — while it was the third time Barcelona have scored five goals in a match in nine days.What’s more, Raphinha’s bizarre finish to pull it back to 3-2 was only the third header scored from outside the box in the competition’s history.If the Brazilian’s first was fortunate, his match-winning goal was typical of one of Europe’s most prolific forwards this season. Racing clear and finishing confidently at the near post, it was Raphinha’s 31st goal contribution of the season in just under 28 full games of action. Once again, his fitness and relentless running in behind (illustrated by the graphic below) paid off.

Hansi Flick’s side are almost guaranteed a top-three finish and given the uncertainty on potential opponents, it might even be worth rotating for the visit of Atalanta next week, Barcelona’s eighth game of the month.

Anything Barcelona can do…

Not content seeing their domestic rivals take the limelight, Atletico Madrid launched a late comeback of their own at the Metropolitano, snapping Bayer Leverkusen’s 11-game winning streak with a dramatic 2-1 win.Julian Alvarez‘s late strike was the ninth decisive goal that Diego Simeone’s men have scored after the 90-minute mark this season, having beaten Barcelona and PSG with seconds to spare. It was also the fourth time that former City forward Alvarez has popped up with a winner and he now has as many Champions League goals (six) as he has managed in La Liga.The 24-year-old was clinical again, needing just five touches in the penalty area to continue his hot streak in front of goal, illustrated in his shot map for the season below.

It’s a result that lifts the Spanish side above Leverkusen in the table, but both are in strong positions for automatic qualification. Following a fourth successive win in the competition — the first time they have managed that since 2016 — Atletico have an 82 per cent chance of finishing in the top eight.Leverkusen are not far behind, with a 75 per cent chance before a winnable game against already-eliminated Sparta Prague.

A famous win for Feyenoord

Arguably the biggest winners from this week’s action were Feyenoord, who are mathematically safe after an impressive 3-0 win over Bayern Munich. It hasn’t been plain sailing domestically for coach Brian Priske, who was dealt the unenviable hand of succeeding Slot, but a stunning point at the Etihad sits alongside last night’s result as one of the finest in the club’s recent history.

Santiago Gimenez celebrates his second goal against Bayern Munich (Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

Santiago Gimenez opened the scoring with an emphatic finish after a flowing move that started from the goalkeeper — just one of three shots that Feyenoord kept on target all evening. The Mexican has scored 11 goals since his return from injury in late November, adding a second from the spot just before half-time.Bayern were wasteful — as Harry Kane, Leroy Sane and Jamal Musiala missed from point-blank range — illustrated by the expected goals (xG) step chart below. They also controlled 80 per cent of the ball and completed almost four times as many passes on the way to their third away defeat in the Champions League this season despite perfect home form.

Remarkably, Feyenoord’s chance of progressing automatically to the last 16 (13 per cent) is now greater than the model predicts for Bayern (nine per cent). Victory against winless Slovan Bratislava shouldn’t be an issue for Vincent Kompany’s side on the final day but results need to go their way if they are to creep into the top eight.To whoever draws Bayern in the play-off round: unlucky.

Best of the rest

Inter practically sealed their passage through to the last 16 with a 1-0 win over Sparta Prague. Still with a record of having let in just one goal, there is now just a two per cent chance that the Serie A champions fall into the play-off spots.

Atalanta continued their storming campaign with a 5-0 win over Sturm Graz, their second five-goal win of the tournament. They have a 66 per cent chance of holding on to a top-eight berth, with a tricky trip to Barcelona on the final day.

Aston Villa fell to a disappointing defeat at Monaco, leaving their automatic qualification in the balance. They need to beat Celtic at Villa Park while hoping one of the other six teams on 13 points, or any of the three sides above them, drop points. Opta gives them a 52 per cent chance of climbing back into the top eight and a 48 per cent of heading into a playoff with — as it stands — Sporting CP or Stuttgart.

Real Madrid recorded a much-needed 5-1 win over Red Bull Salzburg to keep them safe from a shocking league-stage exit. They have a 93 per cent chance of finishing in a play-off spot — a massively daunting opponent in February. And it may have been too little too late, but Leipzig and Bologna picked up their first Champions League wins of the campaign. Thijs Dallinga and Samuel Iling-Junior scored within 60 seconds for the Italians to complete a remarkable comeback win over Dortmund that saw Nuri Sahin lose his job.

Tyler Adams boosts USMNT optimism with return to top form, has Bournemouth flying

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 14: Tyler Adams of AFC Bournemouth passes the ball under pressure from Cole Palmer of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and AFC Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge on January 14, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

By Jeff Rueter Jan 23, 2025 The Athletic

The mark of a good defensive midfielder is when you hardly notice their presence. They’ve snuffed out an opponent’s attack before the crowd can begin to anticipate a box entry. Their passing is so metronomic that it puts a viewer in a daze. Even the most game-changing of defensive actions look tidy when handled with masterful precision.Tyler Adams is a good defensive midfielder, as has been established for nearly five years now after his breakthrough with RB Leipzig. Despite this, he lacks that “blink and you’ll miss his work” air about him. The reason for this is simple: his clubs and country fare noticeably better whenever he’s involved.Bournemouth is the latest beneficiary of Adams’ play. They played their first seven games of the season without Adams as he recovered from back surgery in July. Since then, Andoni Iraola’s side has seemingly gone from strength to strength: 10 games unbeaten, dating back to a 4-2 win at Wolves on Nov. 30, with a 2.2-points-per-game clip over the period that only trails Nottingham Forest among Premier League sides.Adams’ return has been highly anticipated by Bournemouth in part because he was hardly available in his first season. The club signed him after Leeds United were relegated, hoping he would be a more dependable midfield anchor than Jefferson Lerma, who was leaving for Crystal Palace.

Tyler Adams has contributed to Bournemouth’s superb recent form. (Justin Tallis/AFP via Getty Images)

So great was their faith in the former New York Red Bull that he was their only defensive midfield reinforcement in the three windows following Lerma’s exit. The need for cover was immediately pronounced, as Leeds’ overuse of Adams left him with a torn hamstring that ended his season in early March. Even as he missed nearly all of 2023-24, Bournemouth focused its recruitment on the forward and defensive lines.After his surgery rehab, Bournemouth has been more willing to ease him back into action. He was slowly reintroduced in late October: one unused appearance on the bench, then two substitute shifts, then his return to the lineup in mid-November.

Starting with that galvanizing win at Molineux, Bournemouth’s 10-game heater yields ample data suggesting Adams has played a significant part. Since Nov. 30, Bournemouth has increased its ball recovery rate by 3.1% (to 58%) from the previous 12 matches, improved the average xG per shot faced from 0.105 to 0.085, and upped its pressing intensity of passes allowed per defensive action made (or PPDA) from 11.2 to 9.3.

“It’s a controlled chaos,” Adams told TNT Sports after last weekend’s win at Newcastle. “We want to make the game as chaotic as possible but controlled for us. We try to overwhelm the opponent as much as possible but for us, it feels normal. We’re running all over the place.

“We know I have the freedom to step, I know center backs are coming with me. It’s trust, but you have to have the nuance to it as well. You can’t go flying into tackles all over the pitch. You have to be smart, because we know we can leave ourselves vulnerable at times.”

Adams has looked back to his best. His 12.43 ‘true’ tackles per 1,000 opponent touches — combining raw tackle data with instances when a defender is either shaken by the ball-handler or commits a foul in the process — since Nov. 28 trails only Alexis Mac Allister and João Gomes among all Premier League players (min. 500 minutes played). His ‘true’ tackle win rate of 55.3% exceeds both of them, while he also ranks highly in interceptions and blocked passes per 1,000 opponent touches (4.5, 5th among 61 qualified midfielders) and aerial win rate (64.3%, 15th).

Even more eye-catching than the data are the results themselves. Since returning, Adams has participated in: a 1-0 win over Tottenham, a 3-0 win at Old Trafford, a 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge, and last weekend’s 4-1 blowout at St. James’ Park. Adams was particularly immense in the most recent result, making a mark all over the pitch in a vintage display.

The run has made Iraola among the hottest names in coaching. It has also reinforced the abilities, individually and as a collective, of Adams and his teammates.

“The system that we play, you have to be a certain type of player to fit into the style,” Adams said last weekend. “You have to have the mentality to press, run, and compete.”

Thankfully for Bournemouth, those traits fit Adams to a tee. The next trick is to keep him available for his national team’s biggest tournament in over three decades.

One can assume that Adams and USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino have spoken several times since the Argentine’s appointment in September. Unfortunately, Adams’ back injury prevented him from featuring in either of Pochettino’s first two camps before year’s end.

Adams last played for the national team that he co-captains in early July, when he started the Copa América group finale against Uruguay. The match felt doomed before it kicked off, as the previous game’s shock defeat against Panama made advancing from Group C a near impossibility. It was the only time that Adams played a full 90 minutes in the tournament, having played the opening half against Bolivia and Panama.

As The Athletic wrote in the weeks following the USMNT’s early exit, Adams clearly looked below his usual standard across the competition. His lack of involvement in the preceding months left the USMNT’s crucial midfield cog with significant rust. It’s quite understandable why: Adams had logged just 118 minutes for Bournemouth and 96 minutes for the United States dating back to Jan. 1, 2024.

USMNT Elimination at the Copa America group stage ended Gregg Berhalter’s tenure. (John Dorton/ISI Photos/Getty Images for USSF)

In the Copa, Adams was far less effective than usual when tackling opponents. Comparing to another small sample — his 360 minutes in Qatar — his duel win rate dropped from 61% to 53%; his ‘true’ tackle win rate fell from a robust 64.7% to a paltry 37.5%. Concerningly, he was forced to commit fouls more often, possibly a side effect of being below his opponents’ fitness standard: from 1.96 fouls per 1,000 opponent touches at the World Cup to 2.89 per 1,000 touches at the Copa América.

This almost certainly wasn’t a case of a player regressing over 18 months. Adams won’t turn 26 until mid-February. Instead, his and Bournemouth’s shared inability to avoid injuries in the months preceding the tournament left him without time to adequately prepare. Compare that to the months preceding the 2022 World Cup, when he’d logged 1,167 Premier League minutes for Leeds in the season’s first half, and it’s clear how much more ready his body was for hard-labor tournament shifts.

Bournemouth and the USMNT have a shared interest in ensuring that Adams’ recent stretch of consistent, high-level play can be sustained for longer than a couple of months at a time. The United States will need all of its best players in fine form to make a deep run when the 2026 World Cup comes to North America. When drafting the USMNT’s projected strongest lineup for that summer, it’s hard to come up with even a few names who are as vital to making it all work as Adams.

For Bournemouth, that may also mean finding adequate cover before the January window closes. Billing was loaned to Napoli as other attacking options surpassed him on the depth chart. The fact that Adams has quickly partnered well with Lewis Cook and Ryan Christie shows that any two starters from the trio complement each other. During this 10-game run, however, no other player beyond these three has logged a single minute in the engine room.

Tanner Tessman’s emergence has given the USMNT midfield options. (Bill Barrett/ISI Photos/Getty Images for USSF)

For the USMNT, Adams may require rest and rotation whenever he has been heavily utilized before an international window. Thankfully, Pochettino has more depth in defensive midfield than his predecessor Gregg Berhalter. Johnny Cardoso, Tanner Tessman and Aidan Morris have all progressed since the 2022 World Cup. None is quite as industrious of a ball-winner as Adams, but each can take a shift to ease the toll on Adams’ legs.Adams is invaluable to the USMNT, a quintessential “glue guy” with strong leadership attributes and level-headed relatability. Having him as part of each ensuing Pochettino camp will ensure he’s in sync with his teammates even if his minutes must be managed during friendly windows.With respect to the next handful of windows, none comes close to matching the magnitude of the 2026 World Cup. Entering that tournament with Adams below optimal fitness, or seeing him miss outright due to injury, would be among the worst imaginable setbacks Pochettino could face.(Top photo: Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

USMNT midfielder Weston McKennie has what he wants this January – no transfer talk

Turin, Italy - December 11: Weston Mckennie of Juventus Fc celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Juventus and Manchester City at Allianz Stadium on December 11, 2024 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Sportinfoto/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

By Greg O’Keeffe 5h ago The Athletic

Weston McKennie arrived, like clockwork, into Manchester City’s penalty area and timed his volley with precision. It was apt for a player who sometimes compares himself to a wristwatch. In one glorious instant, to extend the metaphor, he became a very valuable one. McKennie’s December goal to seal a dramatic Champions League win for Juventus against City reminded everyone at the Italian club about the wisdom of keeping the 26-year-old American after yet another summer of speculation over his future.

Fast forward a month and the winter transfer window has brought a pleasant change for the Texan. Speculation? What speculation? Rather than links with a move elsewhere, as has been the case in previous windows, all the talk surrounding McKennie in Juventus’ home city of Turin this week is about how he can help the team win arguably its most important game of the season at league leaders Napoli tomorrow.With typical honesty, McKennie admits his career path has long toughened him up to the process.“It’s definitely nice,” he said of the lack of exit rumors, in an interview with The Athletic on Thursday.“I have dealt with it most of the time in the summers, so cross my fingers that it doesn’t pop up again come this summer time.

Coach Antonio Conte’s Napoli team sits top of Serie A (Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“To be here is always a dream for me, at this high level and a club with so much history and the caliber of players in the past, and to even play with some of those players and legends. So it’s nice to not hear any noise about it for now.”Even during the second summer of suggestions he was just not quite good enough for Juventus to keep, McKennie seemed to remain sanguine. Now, he is eyeing a personal best for goals in a season, with four in all competitions already (his top tally is six, in his 2020-21 debut campaign with Juventus), and admits he is enjoying proving his worth.“Like anything in life, once you experience it a couple of times, you know how to deal with it,” he says. “I learned at a young age, when I made my first move from FC Dallas to Germany (joining Schalke at age 17), that football is a business and people, or teams and clubs, will have use for you until they don’t have use for you and then you’re just an investment.“It’s just like a watch: you buy a watch and hope it appreciates in value and when it’s time to resell it, you can resell it. You may not use it as much anymore after a little bit.

“After many experiences of it, you get used to it and just try to respond. The only thing you can do to respond to it is prove people wrong and that’s something I feel like I’ve been able to do in the past two seasons and I hope it continues.”

Some supporters have chosen a different object to reflect McKennie’s appeal.

One commenter beneath an Athletic article compared him to a useful Swiss Army knife and it is easy to see why. During his time at the Turin giant, he has played almost every outfield position. Although he prefers a central-midfield No. 8 role, this season has often seen the right-footer deputize ably at left-back.

It means a different set of demands than operating in midfield, but McKennie says it has never felt like an onerous switch.“I’ve always been someone that wants the best for the team and the club. I’m not a super-selfish person, so whatever I’m asked to do I don’t mind doing,” he says. “As long as I’m playing, I’m happy.“I don’t find it hard to adapt. I feel I’ve always had a good understanding of the game and played for a while now, so it’s pretty easy. If you’re playing the right-back position or left-back you stay with the line, you press when you can, or don’t press, get out of situations, you make passes just like in any position.

This January, McKennie seems more settled at Juventus during the transfer window (Diego Puletto/Juventus/Juventus FC via Getty Images)

“If you play midfield, you do the same thing: press when you can, make sure you stay in the middle of the field and make passes. If you play striker, you just make sure you’re not offside, so you’re staying with the line again. You don’t need to overcomplicate anything.”Unsurprisingly then, McKennie has not spent his spare time studying videos of other left-backs.“I don’t watch football,” he says. “When I’m finished with training, I go home and watch movies, TV shows, and disconnect completely. I’ve never watched a World Cup or Champions League final. Nothing.“It’s something I’ve always done. We watch enough film in training to have an understanding of things. I love football, trust me — it’s given me the life that I have: to be able to travel and not have to worry about things maybe other people have to worry about. To be able to help my family when I can — but football is not my life.“I like to do other things outside of football, I’m a human being. It’s not a case of 24/7 eating, thinking, breathing soccer. I have a life outside of the game.”

McKennie certainly speaks often from experience and he is slightly older than the 25.7 average age of his club’s squad.Juventus have one of the youngest rosters in Serie A this season and as one of their ‘elder’ statesmen, the USMNT international believes he knows how they will curb their costly habit of drawing games.

On one hand, coach Thiago Motta’s outfit is unbeaten in 21 league matches this season, but they sit only fifth in the table, two points off the top four places that mean Champions League qualification, after eight wins and, remarkably, 13 draws.“We’re not in a terrible position, but it’s not great either,” McKennie says. “When you hear a team has gone unbeaten, they’re usually in first place. In our case, that’s not it. I think it comes down to little moments of concentration and shooting ourselves in the foot. We can close out a game and win a game, but there can be that little slip-up or missed clearance that seems to be happening at the moment.“Obviously it’s a bit different because we’re a young team compared to the (Juventus) teams before us and so there’s also an experience difference. We don’t go out there to tie games. But obviously, teams before us had the (Giorgio) Chiellinis and (Leonardo) Bonuccis, (Paulo) Dybalas and Cristianos (Ronaldo). They have won big things and they knew how to win.

Cristiano Ronaldo brought his skills to Juventus in 2018 (Nicolo Campo/LightRocket via Getty Images)

“Winning is not always going to look pretty and it may not always look the way people want football to be played. But if you’re winning 1-0 and there’s five minutes on the clock, then sometimes it’s the right thing to take the ball to the corner and waste time.

“We are eager and young and want to score goals so we are still trying to attack and sometimes leaving little holes here and there. But we’re making mistakes we can’t make.”

To go with his nous, McKennie has maintained an attacking threat this term despite playing in defence. As well as those four goals, including that sensational strike against City, he’s contributed three assists.

“I have always had it,” he says. “I have had it in storage, I guess you could say.

“Everything in life is like when it’s clicking, it’s clicking, and if it’s not, then it’s not. You can take many players in the world of football, or other sports, that have one crazy season when everything just falls for them and they’re always in the right place at the right time.“I have worked for that and trained my whole life to be in the best position to do that, but it’s like I say: when it clicks, it clicks. Hopefully, it continues and I can potentially pull off a season-best.”McKennie is a regular for the national team but, like most senior squad members based outside of the U.S., was not involved in new head coach Mauricio Pochettino’s camp this month that featured wins over Venezuela and Costa Rica and was a chance for other players, many from Major League Soccer, to show the Argentine and his staff what they can do.“It seems like it was a successful camp and I wouldn’t be surprised if I see one or two players from this camp in the next camp in March,” McKennie says. “I’m glad the players who were in camp were able to do their part and keep the pride for the team.”If results under new management have started to restore the team’s standing, it was necessary after a sobering summer when they flopped at a home Copa America, being eliminated at the end of the group phase.Now the dust has settled on that tournament, how does McKennie, who started all three of the USMNT’s games, reflect on the experience?“Obviously, we could have done way better than what we did,” he sighs. “I think we all know that. Silly mistakes. I can speak for myself, in that I didn’t have the best tournament or help the team as much as I knew I could.

“I’m just trying to have the type of performances I have for Juventus and translate them to the national team. That’s how you become a top player, someone that’s consistent and not just someone who conforms to one or the other. I don’t want that type of legacy.”

Still, McKennie emphasizes the importance of not dwelling too much on the past.

Looking forward, this weekend brings a challenge in the shape of a trip to in-form Napoli and the chance to get a result that could move Juventus back into those Champions League qualification spots.

“We definitely want to go there and leave a mark,” McKennie says. “It’s not like we’re afraid to go down there and play. The Juventus name holds some weight as well. But the name of Juventus can only carry you so far and it’s the players that have to take the next step and pull out a win and not another draw.”

Napoli are riding high during a campaign with three former Premier League players, including Scotland internationals Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour, previously of Manchester United and Brighton & Hove Albion respectively, in their midfield. After his spell in England on loan at Leeds United in the second half of the 2022-23 season, what does McKennie make of more English-based players, a group joined this week by Manchester City’s Kyle Walker signing for Milan, moving to Italy.

Scott McTominay has adapted well to life in Serie A (Ivan Romano/Getty Images)

“From my experience in England, you can expect players that run a lot, are technically sound and are rough,” he says. “The Italian league has always been known for its defence and I think players like that making jumps here and other big players from other countries doing the same coming to teams like Napoli, Milan and Juventus just shows the quality is growing.

“Italians really love Italian players and want to keep Italians in their league, but I think it’s become a little bit more open-minded and foreign players are adapting better. They enjoy it and the lifestyle is amazing here. It’s not always gray (weather), like England. You can have some sunlight and you’re close to many good things, so I think that’s why more players are coming here and being successful.”

On Saturday evening, McKennie hopes he and compatriot Tim Weah can help Juventus spoil the mood in Naples, but beyond that, he is as wary of looking too far forward as he is about going over old memories, good and bad.

“It’s like my Manchester City goal,” he says. “I was tagged in lots of stories for it on my Instagram that night and I probably saw it like 100 times. That was enough for me. Searching it back and looking for it? No.

“Juventus is a club that always has expectations and needs to be in the Champions League. But right now we’re not trying to focus on what the end of the season looks like. Think too far ahead and you can lose that concentration.

“It’s like when people ask me about the World Cup (next year, which the United States is co-hosting with Canada and Mexico, and staging the majority of matches). I always say life is life and anything can happen. I can speak about it all I want and (then) maybe I’m not even playing at it or on the roster.

“At the end of the day, we can only take on what is in front of us.”

(Top photo: Sportinfoto/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)