U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team Triumphs Over Paraguay
In a thrilling encounter on Saturday at Subaru Park in Chester, Pennsylvania, the U.S. men’s national soccer team secured a 2-1 victory over Paraguay, thanks in large part to a standout performance from Gio Reyna. This match marked Reyna’s first start since July 2024, and he did not disappoint, contributing a goal and an assist to lead his team to victory.
Match Highlights
The U.S. got off to a fast start as Reyna scored with a header just four minutes into the match, giving them an early edge. However, the South American side quickly responded, leveling the score within six minutes when Alex Arce also scored with a header in the 10th minute. Despite controlling possession and generating more shots in the first half, the U.S. was unable to regain the lead before halftime, as both teams went into the break tied at 1-1.
The second half saw a determined U.S. side pushing for a winner. Substitutions, including Diego Luna and Alex Freeman, were part of coach Mauricio Pochettino‘s strategy to increase offensive pressure. The critical moment came in the 71st minute when Luna’s work led to a turnover by Paraguay, allowing Folarin Balogun to set up Reyna for a return pass, securing a 2-1 lead for the Americans.
In the closing stages, the U.S. continued pressing, nearly adding a third goal amidst some physical altercations as the final whistle approached. Ultimately, the squad celebrated the hard-fought 2-1 win as they continue preparations for the upcoming World Cup, with another match against Uruguay scheduled for November 18.
Coaching Strategy and Player Performance
Pochettino, known for his experimental approach, has modified the lineup frequently, which was clear from another new selection that featured Reyna prominently. While the team showed some vulnerabilities—especially in the midfield and against quick counter-attacks—the win reinforced Pochettino’s philosophy, emphasizing team performance over individual accolades.
Player Ratings
- Gio Reyna: 9 – High praise for his goal and assist.
- Max Arfsten: 8 – Established himself as a pivotal player in midfield.
- Matt Freese: 6 – Had little to do apart from conceding the goal from a narrow angle.
- Miles Robinson: 5 – Faced criticism for defensive lapses.
Overall, as the U.S. looks ahead, the performance against Paraguay is a reminder of their potential, especially with Reyna back in prominent form with the World Cup on the horizon.
