Overview

• The U.S. split September friendlies—0-2 vs South Korea, 2-0 vs Japan—while debuting a 3-4-3/3-4-2-1 that delivered a cleaner, more balanced shape.
• Folarin Balogun and Alejandro Zendejas scored against Japan, boosting their World Cup cases, and Mauricio Pochettino said Zendejas "is in the race."
• Matt Freese strengthened his case as the top goalkeeper with steady performances, though competition persists with Matt Turner and others.
• Post-window projections now tilt toward a core that includes Christian Pulisic, Tyler Adams, Sergiño Dest, Antonee Robinson, Chris Richards, Tim Ream and Balogun, with club minutes still a concern for some midfielders.
• Analysts say the back three fits the player pool by reducing defensive strain on fullbacks and aligning with roles for Chris Richards, even as Ream’s pace and the need for more forward passing in midfield remain topics.