Following a disappointing 2-0 defeat to South Korea, Mauricio Pochettino is urging patience with the USMNT. However, changes are likely for their upcoming, more challenging match against 17th-ranked Japan (the Samurai Blue) in Columbus on Tuesday. Japan, fresh off a draw with Mexico, will push the USMNT to its limits. The first-half performance against South Korea simply won`t suffice to prevent Japan from establishing a lead that the USMNT cannot overcome.
Despite the recent loss, some positive aspects from the USMNT`s play could be carried into the Japan fixture. Matt Freese`s performance and the team`s shift to a back three formation were notable highlights. Freese has consistently started every match since the Gold Cup, and even with Pochettino evaluating uncapped goalkeepers like Jonathan Klinsmann and Roman Celentano, maintaining defensive consistency is crucial. Freese is emerging as the top choice for the number one shirt, and it seems illogical to remove him from the starting lineup.
Pochettino faces a key decision regarding the defense. The USMNT`s tempo significantly improved when Chris Richards joined Tim Ream and Tristan Blackmon to form a three-man defense. This tactical adjustment allowed Alex Freeman to contribute more to the attack, while Folarin Balogun frequently tested South Korea`s goal. While none of those shots found the net, this USMNT squad appears inherently well-suited for a back-three system.
Tim Weah could excel as a wing-back, a role that also complements Sergino Dest`s strengths in driving the team forward offensively while providing defensive cover. Given the USMNT`s current struggles, now is an opportune moment to implement tactical changes and assess their effectiveness against a high-caliber opponent. With little to lose, delaying new approaches seems counterproductive.
USMNT Predicted XI
- Starters: Matt Freese, Sergino Dest, Chris Richards, Tim Ream, Tristan Blackmon, Tim Weah, Tyler Adams, Sebastian Berhalter, Luca De La Torre, Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun
How to Watch USMNT vs. Japan
- Date: Tuesday, Sept. 9
- Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Lower.com Field — Columbus, Ohio
- TV: TNT and Universo
- Stream: Fubo (Try for free)
- Odds: USMNT +210; Draw +240; Japan +120
