USMNT

Who?

Published

9 years ago

January 13, 2017

What happened to our backline – John Brooks, Geoff Cameron, DeAndre Yedlin. Where’s that stud Christian Pulisic and super striker Bobby Wood? Have we just regressed? No. Stop panicking. Most clubs won’t release their players for a camp like this one. However, this is a great opportunity for our MLS players who have been out of game shape for weeks or even months to get closer to game fit. It’s also an open for some new young MLS players to try to make a name for themselves and break in.

Names like Jordan Morris are a little better known so I left him and a few others off, focusing on the lesser known young players. Here’s a little bit about those guys…

Goalkeeper

David Bingham (San Jose Earthquakes, MLS)
Bingham isn’t a household name with the likes of Tim Howard, especially after Tim’s incredible performance at the 2014 World Cup against Belgium. Brad Guzan was the heir apparent – starting in Europe and having a successful campaign leading the team in the 2015 Copa America, but suddenly lost his seat for his club and his US standing has been called into question. Some have wondered if he was truly going to take over regardless due to his often obvious position issues, indecisiveness and flair for gaffes.

David is one of the young rising stars that could jump on the scene. At 27 he’s just entering his prime years for a goalkeeper. He’s following his sister’s footsteps who played in college and for the USWNT in net.

Born in California, he played his youth soccer there before attending the University of California, Berkeley. He spent his first year on the bench behind now USMNT teammate in camp Stefan Frei. In 2009 he was named to the All-Pac-10 second team with a .95 goals against record before his 2010 campaign where he took the Golden Bears to the quarterfinals only to lose in penalties to the future champions Akron. He was selected in the 2011 MLS Superdraft by San Jose Earthquakes, his favorite childhood team. He finished 2015 fourth in the league with 105 saves and was rewarded with his first call up the USMNT national team. Bingham was recognized as theScore’s 2016 Team of the Season.

For USMNT Bingham opened his tally against Canada last year in February in a friendly against Canada. He also entered the friendly against New Zealand that same year. He’s certainly in the running of a long list of young keepers who hope to grab the mantle from Tim Howard.

Check out this goal by Keeper David Bingham against West Brom in a friendly from 2011:

Defense

Matt Hedges (FC Dallas, MLS)
Hedges was born to a sports family in Rochester, NY. Both of the 26 year old defender’s parents played college sports and his sister played soccer for Wisconsin. Matt attended Butler and was an All-American, along with many other accolades during his tenure as a Bulldog. His junior year he led his team, scoring four game-winning goals before deciding to transfer to the University of North Carolina for his senior year. He was part of the 2011 NCAA national championship team recording six goals and an assist in his solo season for UNC.

Hedges was a first round draft pick for FC Dallas in the 2012 MLS SuperDraft. He made his debut in April 2012 and became a regular starter almost immediately. He scored his first goal for FC Dallas in a clutch game tying goal in the 90th against Sporting Kansas City. By the 2014 season, Matt was Captain and has been ever since.

A natural leader and anchor for the defense, he has built a reputation as one of the top defenders in all of MLS. He was in the final list for first team honors in 2015 before earning the 2016 MLS Defender of the Year honors last year. Hedges is definitely one of a long list of prospective center backs that could receive the baton from guys like Geoff Cameron in the next cycle.

Taylor Kemp (D.C. United, MLS)
Kemp is likely the least known name on this list, but may have one of the best opportunities of all the young players mentioned. The left back position still seems up for grabs to allow Fabian Johnson to move forward into his natural and club midfield position. At age 26 he’s primed to make a run that could include the 2018 World Cup if no one else emerges. Kemp was born in Highlands Ranch, Colorado and soccer runs in the blood. His sister played at Wake Forest University. Taylor was recognized at a young age and was rated the Number 2 recruit by ESPN Rise Magazine was recognized early by his country in the U18 and U20 development academies. He won a state championship and was recognized as MVP on that team.

He played his college soccer at the University of Maryland and took over as captain of the team his senior year. He received All-ACC honors in three of his four years and was part of some memorable moments including an 88th minute goal in the NCAA Tournament to lead his team past Penn State in a 1-0 victory. He won two ACC Championships in his time at UMD. Taylor was drafted 17th overall by D.C. United and broke into the line up in 2015. He holds down the left flank and provides lethal crosses for his recently upgraded D.C. United striking unit. He was a leader on the team in assist in 2015 before really taking over the left back position in 2016. He tied a franchise record with three assists in one game, adding three more on the season for a career year and tucked two goals in the back of the net to round out his stat sheet.

Taylor is a devout Catholic and his relationship with God grounds him when things get tough in the professional sports world. Kemp is a left back, but his nickname is “Shooter” because of his deadly powerful left foot. It was hard to choose from a few of his highlight real of goals for D.C. United which might give him the edge in a weak left back pool.

Keegan Rosenberry (Philadelphia Union, MLS)
Keegan, one of the youngest players at camp at 23, grew up in rural Ronks, Pennsylvania. He was captain of his teams in both high school and college and did the little thing well. He showed qualities on and off the field early in his youth as a scout from Georgetown University saw when he came to watch him play. One scout recalled a game where Keegan was heading back to the team bus and then stopped returned to the bench and cleaned of all of the trash and debris that was around his team’s bench and threw it all away. The scout recalled knowing right then that he wanted Rosenberry on his team. It also didn’t hut that Keegan’s passing was spot on and he was someone who seemed to pursue improving all the time.

Like many on players on this list Rosenberry led his high school team to a state title before going on to college. He played four years at Georgetown University. He also played for Reading United AC in the Premier Development League in 2014 and 2015. In 2016 he was draft third overall by his local club Philadelphia Union in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft. He finished his first season with two goals and two assists, but was well respected on a mediocre team for his excellent play. On top of playing well, he kept his head as he committed the second fewest fouls in the league and was never booked all season. Incredible for a defender on a sub-par team.

Keegan has quickly become a fan favorite and a name many brought up during Klinsmann’s tenure as deserving a call up.

Keegan held his own in his rookie year and looked to have the Rookie of the Year honors in his targets if not for a late surge by his dangerous USMNT teammate, Jordan Morris. Jordan led the Champion Seattle Sounders late season surge and was an easy choice as the Rookie of the Year winner.

Walker Zimmerman (FC Dallas, MLS)
Zimmerman is another player who probably few know the name, but one you definitely need to start learning. He grew up with sports and leadership in his blood. His grandfather and great grandfather played football in college and both were captains at Auburn University. He has professional athletes all over his family including his brother who punted at Clemson and for the Atlanta Falcons. Walker is the son of David Zimmerman, a Baptist Minister for 21 years in Texas.

“I don’t know how long God has for me to play, but I intend to not just talk, but actually show up every step of the way.”

Walker is 23 and came up through the ranks of the U18, U20 and U23 teams with a few appearances on each. He was in the youth academy at Gwinnett Soccer Association in Lilburn, Georgia. He also played for Furman University in 2011 and 2012 where he won All-Southern Conference first team honors and finished his career with 11 goals and 5 assists. He was selected seventh overall in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft and made his debut against D.C. United in 2013. In 2015 he made a great memory by knocking the Seattle Sounders out of the playoffs with a penalty kick to end the game. He finished last season with four goals and got Goal USA’s 2016 MLS Defender of the Year honors.

His tall 6’3 frame helps him defend the air or sky on corner kicks and be a threat on a dangerous FC Dallas squad. This is Zimmermans first time getting called up to the senior USMNT team. He’s a tall center back, that joins a competitive field in the middle of defense.

MIDFIELD
Sebastian Lletget (LA Galaxy, MLS)
Llegets was born and raised in California to Argentine parents. He was discovered by West Ham and they signed him to their International academy. He joined the full team in 2010 and got his debut in 2014 against Nottingham Forrest. He couldn’t quite seem to break into the squad and after a few years and only a few appearances with West Ham he joined Coach Bruce Arena’s LA Galaxy in 2015.

LLetget made his debut for the team shortly after arriving with the club. He scored seven goals in his debut year and added 10 assists. He struggled a bit as he was adjusting to a new position in 2016 as the team added Steven Gerrard and some other new players last year.

Sebastian played with the US U17, U19 and U23 teams. This year is the 24 year old’s first ever call up to the senior team.

Kekuta Manneh (Vancouver Whitecaps FC, MLS)
Kekuta is a very interesting name on this list. He’s a 22 year old striker born in Gambia and moved to Texas as a teenager, who just recently received his US citizenship. He has been working for years to join the US squad and it appears is now happening.

Manneh lost his mother when he was 10 and had another family tragedy occur while he was attending school in the US. He came to the US in 2010 and attended Lake Travis High School planning to stay for a year. He was eventually adopted by the family Niccum he was staying with. He graduated from his high school in 2013 and drafted in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft.

He joined the Whitecaps in 2012, but lived across the border in the US in Point Roberts, Washington as he attempted to attain his US citizenship. MLS rated him number of five on their 2016 24 under 24 List.

He had an unfortunate broken foot injury in 2016 which kept him out of four months of play, but he was still able to manage five goals and two assist. Manneh had a great 2015 enjoying seven goals and six assists, as he broke on the scene for the Vancouver White Caps. He has 22 total goals for Vancouver and was the league’s youngest ever to record a hat trick. to The 22 year old has a lot of career ahead of him and will try to squeeze his way on to a recently crowded striker core for the USMNT.

This was Manneh’s first call up to the USMNT, though he’s been watched for some time now as his citizenship progressed.

Wil Trapp (Columbus Crew SC, MLS)
Trapp grew up in Columbus, Ohio and played for Lincoln High School and like many on this list lead his team to a State Champion. He was the 2010 National High School Player of the Year. He went on to the University of Akron where he played and scored one goal along with eight assists. The Columbus Crew signed him on a homegrown contract.

“Wil Trapp does his job, he brings the ball out for them… difficult to stop. He has for him a good future. As an American, [you] should be happy. I thought he was the difference.”
– Thierry Henry

Wil broke into the Crew in summer 2013 where he started and played the entire game. A year later he scored his first professional goal. He was named an All-Star in 2016, the first home grown player in MLS history to do so. “Willy Franchise” plays in the center of midfield where the team is aging out of Beckerman and Jones long holding their positions. He has great vision and strong passing to support his defensive posture.

Trapp came up through the US Soccer Development Academy playing at the U14, U15, U18, U20 and U23 levels. He Captained the 2016 U23 team before getting his debut for the senior team in 2015. This camp is his third time getting called up to the USMNT for the 23 year old. With the aging stars in the central midfield Trapp has an opportunity in this camp to take one of those spots.

USMNT

The No. 9 Timeline: A Historical Look at USMNT Strikers

Published

4 days ago

April 10, 2026

Thomas Deschaine

Thomas Deschaine (@uskeeper on X and us_keeper on Instagram)

Each generation of soccer can be understood through overlapping eras, each one feeding into the next. Some produce deeper pools of talent, while others rely on a handful of standout players. In a recent piece, I looked back at past USMNT goalkeepers and their impact on World Cup teams. That led to a natural follow-up: a deeper dive into the history of USMNT strikers.

For this article, I’ve divided that history into three distinct eras, focusing strictly on past strikers rather than the current pool. I’ll wrap up, however, with some thoughts on where today’s active strikers fit into that broader timeline. For each era I will spotlight four strikers.

According to their media guide, the modern era of the USMNT begins with the 1990 World Cup cycle. While that framing makes some sense, it does gloss over some of the program’s more challenging decades. For the purposes of this, though, we’ll start there as well, especially considering that from 1974 to 1986, the USMNT averaged fewer than 20 matches per cycle and scored less than a goal per game across those four cycles.

Trailblazers: The Early Era of USMNT Strikers

The story of USMNT strikers stretches back nearly 40 years, to a time when goals were often hard to come by, but a handful of players still managed to leave a lasting impression. This was an era defined less by consistent production and more by moments, flashes of quality that stood out during a formative period for the program.

Players like Chris Sullivan, Eric Eichmann, Frank Klopas, and Roy Wegerle all played roles in at least one World Cup cycle and delivered important goals along the way. However, consistency and longevity at the international level proved elusive, reflecting the broader challenges the USMNT faced during this period.

Even so, these players helped lay the groundwork for future generations, establishing the foundation for what the striker position would eventually become.

Bruce Murray (1985 – 1993)
85 Caps, 21 goals, 11 assists

A quick, opportunistic forward known for his movement and ability to capitalize on chances, Bruce Murray was the type of striker the USMNT hadn’t truly seen before. He filled that role throughout the 1990 cycle and into the lead-up to 1994, emerging as the team’s leading scorer during that stretch and helping guide the U.S. to its first World Cup appearance since 1950. At the 1990 World Cup, Murray contributed a goal and an assist, highlighting his impact on the international stage.

Despite his contributions, Murray was ultimately left off the 1994 World Cup squad, one of the final cuts as the program began to turn toward younger options and players competing in Europe at the time.

Eric Wynalda (1990 – 2000)
106 Caps, 34 goals, 17 assists

The premier striker of this era for the USMNT, Eric Wynalda featured in three consecutive World Cups. A dynamic and confident forward, he combined technical ability with a powerful shot, making him a constant goal threat and the focal point of the U.S. attack.

His iconic set-piece goal against Switzerland in the USMNT’s opening match of the 1994 FIFA World Cup remains one of the greatest in tournament history and stands among the best goals ever scored by the USMNT. Wynalda not only delivered in defining moments but also set the tone and standard for the strikers who followed.

Earnie Stewart (1990 – 2004)
101 Caps, 17 goals, 10 assists

Earnie Stewart was a key attacking figure for the USMNT throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, bringing a blend of technical quality, intelligence, and consistency to the squad. Comfortable as both a striker and a second forward, his versatility allowed him to influence matches in multiple ways while effectively linking midfield and attack.

While not a traditional No. 9, Stewart’s movement, awareness, and all-around contributions helped shape the evolution of the USMNT’s forward line during a critical period of growth for the program. He appeared in three World Cups—the 1994 FIFA World Cup, 1998 FIFA World Cup, and 2002 FIFA World Cup—and delivered one of the most iconic moments in U.S. soccer history, scoring the game-winning goal against heavily favored Colombia on home soil in 1994.

Second Generation USMNT Strikers (1996-2010)

The next era of USMNT strikers following the 1994 World Cup produced a tough, hard-nosed group. Several featured in one or more World Cup cycles, led by Josh Wolff, who made both the 2002 and 2006 squads.

Brian Ching and Eddie Johnson were also key figures, earning spots on the 2006 roster, with some arguing they were overlooked later in their careers. Other notable names from that period include Casey Coner, Ante Razov, and Taylor Twellman, players who all had opportunities with the USMNT, but whose form and timing didn’t quite align with World Cup selection. Twellman, in particular, still believes he should have been part of the 2006 squad.

Joe-Max Moore (1992 – 2002)
100 Caps, 24 goals, 14 assists

This was always a bit of a sneaky one for me. Joe-Max Moore was a consistently reliable attacking option for the USMNT during this era, even if he didn’t always get the spotlight. Currently ranked seventh all-time in USMNT goals, Moore contributed across three World Cup cycles and remained a steady presence in the attack.

He’s also one of just five USMNT players to score four goals in a single match, a standout performance that came against El Salvador in 1993. Despite his overall production and longevity, however, Moore was never able to find the back of the net on the World Cup (1994, 1998 and 2002) stage.

Brian McBride (1993 – 2006)
95 Caps, 30 goals, 11 assists

A traditional No. 9, Brian McBride was physical, relentless, and dependable, with a dominant aerial presence in the biggest moments. He put everything on the line for the USMNT, scoring in multiple World Cups (1998 and 2002) and cementing himself as a fixture at the striker position.

One of his most iconic moments came at the 2006 World Cup, when he was elbowed in the face by Italy’s Daniele De Rossi, leaving him bloodied and in need of stitches, yet he still played the full 90 minutes.

Clint Mathis (1998 – 2005)
46 Caps, 12 goals, 9 assists

While Clint Mathis had a relatively brief run with the USMNT, his impact on the attacking position was undeniable. Often deployed as a second striker behind Brian McBride, Mathis was anything but traditional—he thrived as a free-roaming attacker capable of changing a match in an instant, highlighted by his ability to score spectacular long-range goals.

He played a key role for the U.S. at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, scoring a memorable goal against South Korea in the group stage and adding an assist, helping power the team’s historic run.

The Evolving Striker Pool (2009 – 2018)

The striker pool from this generation is an interesting mix, some players were only involved with the USMNT for brief stretches, while others carried over from the previous era and overlapped with this group.

Strikers like Edson Buddle and Hercules Gomez, both part of the 2010 World Cup roster, had limited opportunities and production at the international level. Their inclusion was shaped in part by circumstance, as Charlie Davies’ recovery from his car accident less than a year before the tournament ultimately ruled him out of contention.

Looking ahead to 2014, Aron Jóhannsson and Chris Wondolowski earned World Cup roster spots but struggled to make a lasting impact in the biggest matches against top-tier opponents, which limited their long-term roles with the national team.

Players like Jordan Morris, Jesús Ferreira, and Gyasi Zardes emerged and saw increased opportunities following the failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup. It’s easy to imagine that at least some of that younger group could have factored into the roster had the U.S. made it to Russia.

Clint Dempsey (2004 – 2017)
141 Caps, 57 goals, 19 assists

Clint Dempsey delivered some of the most iconic striker moments in USMNT history, big goals, clutch performances, and a relentless ability to show up when it mattered most. While he wasn’t a traditional target striker, his movement, instincts, and technical ability made him one of the most dangerous attacking players the U.S. has ever had.

He scored against top-tier opponents like Spain and Brazil at the 2009 Confederations Cup, found the net against England at the 2010 World Cup to help secure a crucial draw, and famously opened the scoring just seconds into the 2014 World Cup. He also delivered in the 2016 Copa América, with key goals against Ecuador in the quarterfinal and Paraguay in the group stage.

Dempsey wasn’t just a scorer, he was a moment-maker. Whether it was a scrappy finish, a composed strike, or stepping up in the biggest matches, he consistently delivered when the U.S. needed him most.

Jozy Altidore (2007 – 2019)
115 Caps, 42 goals, 14 assists

Jozy Altidore had a unique USMNT career, less about highlight-reel volume and more about physical presence, hold-up play, and stepping up in key moments. At his best, he was the focal point of the attack and a difference-maker. Jozy’s work ethic seemed to impact later stages of his club and USMNT career and impacted him becoming the all-time leading scorer in USMNT history.

Bobby Wood (2013 – 2018)
43 Caps, 13 goals, 3 assists

If it weren’t for Jürgen Klinsmann’s support after Bobby Wood secured a new club in Germany, it’s unclear whether his international career would have continued. While his peak was relatively brief at both club and national level, Wood made his mark with clutch moments, most memorably scoring game-winning goals in back-to-back 2015 friendlies: a 4–3 comeback victory over the Netherlands and a 2–1 win against Germany.

The Next Generation: Assessing the Future of USMNT Strikers

The current USMNT striker pool remains very unsettled. At the moment, Ricardo Pepi is the only regular forward to reach double-digit goals, with 13. He’s followed by Folarin Balogun with eight and Haji Wright with seven. Other notable names in the mix include Josh Sargent and Patrick Agyemang, each of whom has contributed five goals at the international level. However, Agyemang suffered an Achilles injury and has been ruled out of the World Cup, a significant setback given his recent form. For the USMNT to be successful at the 2026 FIFA World Cup their strikers will be a key role and contributing to the teams’ goals scored.

From a club perspective at the time of the article, Balogun is in excellent form, and the hope is that continues through the 2026 FIFA World Cup. At this point, it feels clear that Balogun and Pepi have established themselves as the top two striker options. The bigger question, though, is who else will step up to provide the depth and quality needed to sustain the position in this cycle and beyond.

USMNT

Entry into US Men’s National Fandom

Published

2 months ago

January 31, 2026

Thomas Deschaine

Thomas Deschaine (@uskeeper on X and us_keeper on Instagram)

Every soccer fan has a player or a moment or signature win that pulls them into the game and binds them to a team, no matter how high or low the journey becomes.

For me, that moment was tied to the U.S. Men’s National Team hosting the 1994 World Cup, along with my own recent introduction to the sport as the starting goalkeeper for my school team. Tony Meola, in particular, stood out as one of many important icons and trailblazers for the USMNT during that era.

I imagine there are countless young fans around the world who have already had, or will soon have, that defining moment over the last few years: discovering their first international team and the players they’ll root for and follow for years to come.

Before the 1990 World Cup cycle, those moments were rare for the USMNT. The United States hadn’t even reached the final round of CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying. Their closest opportunity came during the 1986 cycle, when all the U.S. needed was a draw at home against Costa Rica, a result they had achieved just five days earlier on the road in Costa Rica.

In the 1980s, the USMNT qualified for the Olympics three times, once automatically as the host nation in 1984 and twice through the qualifying tournament. It’s also worth noting that Mexico was disqualified during both the 1980 and 1988 qualifying cycles.

Despite qualifying, the U.S. withdrew from the 1980 Olympics in protest of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. In the tournaments they did play (1984 and 1988), the USMNT struggled to make an impact, failing to advance out of the group stage and managing just one combined win across both competitions.

USMNT on the Rise (1988-1998)

This generation of trailblazers put the U.S. Men’s National Team back on the map—ending a 40-year World Cup drought, hosting the 1994 World Cup, and advancing further than the world expected.

1989 WCQ neutral side in Honduras vs El Salvador

A rare win away from home soil keeps US in hunt to qualify for 1990 World Cup.

1989 – Qualification at Trinidad & Tobago

The win in Port of Spain sends the US to its first World Cup since 1950.

1990 – Return to the World Cup (Italy)

Results were tough, but simply qualifying restarted the program on the world stage.

1991 – USA 2–0 Mexico (Gold Cup)

The USMNT’s first “Dos a Cero” win against Mexico to advance to the first Gold Cup Final.

1993 – USA 2-0 England (U.S. Cup)

The USMNT first win against England since the 1950 World Cup.

1994 – USA 2–1 Colombia (World Cup)

One of the biggest upsets in World Cup history; launched U.S. soccer into the mainstream.

1995 – USA 3-0 Argentina (Copa America)

The apex win for this generation of USMNT trailblazers.

1998 – USA 1-0 Brazil (Gold Cup)

The USMNT only win over Brazil to date.

Earning Respect from the World (1999-2010)

After a disappointing performance at the 1998 World Cup, the USMNT reset by hiring American coach Bruce Arena. That decision, combined with the emergence of impactful young players, helped restore credibility and earn growing respect on the global stage—culminating in a deep and memorable run at the 2002 World Cup.

1999 – 2-0 Win over Germany (Confederations Cup)

USMNT second win over Germany in 1999.

2001 – First “Dos a Cero” vs Mexico in Columbus (World Cup Qualifier)

A rivalry-defining moment and a psychological turning point.

2002 – USA 3–2 Portugal (World Cup)

The world took notice. One of the greatest performances in USMNT history.

2002 – USA 2–0 Mexico (World Cup Round of 16)

Dominance over rival Mexico on the biggest stage.

2002 – World Cup Quarterfinal run (loss 1–0 to Germany)

Even in a loss the USMNT deepest World Cup run got attention from most.

2005 – USA 2-0 Mexico in Columbus (World Cup Qualifier)

USMNT WCQ win over Mexico qualified them for the World Cup.

2007 – Gold Cup Final: USA 2–1 Mexico (Gold Cup)

A signature win in Chicago with a classic Donovan goal.

2009 – USA 2–0 Spain (Confederations Cup)

Ends Spain’s 35-match unbeaten streak in a historic semifinal upset.

2010 – Donovan vs Algeria (90+1’)

The most iconic goal in USMNT history; dramatic group-stage escape.

The Klinsmann Era (2011-2017)

When Jürgen Klinsmann was hired to replace Bob Bradley, he introduced a new mindset for the USMNT, challenging players to compete at higher levels with their clubs. The opponents he scheduled during his tenure reflected that philosophy, consistently pushing the team against stronger international competition.

2012 – USA 1-0 Italy (Friendly)

A key road win for the USMNT under Klinsmann.

2012 – USA 1-0 Mexico (Friendly)

The Americans first ever win at Azteca in Mexico.

2013 – USA 4-3 Germany (Centennial Match)

Celebrating their centennial match in style with a win.

2013 – USA 4-3 Bosnia-Herzegovina (Friendly)

A comeback road win against the 13^th ranked Bosnia-Herzegovina.

2013 – USA 2-0 Mexico (World Cup Qualifier)

Nothing better than Dos a Cero that qualifies you for the World Cup.

2014 – USA 2–1 Ghana (World Cup)

Revenge at last, with a clutch John Brooks header helping to advance from Group of Death.

2015 – USA 4-3 Netherlands (Friendly)

A thrilling comeback victory on the road against the Netherlands.

2015 – USA 2-1 Germany (Friendly)

Days after beating the Netherlands, the USMNT topped Germany in a hard-fought match.

2016 – USA 2-1 Ecuador (Copa America)

A quarter-final win for the Americans who advance to the semi-finals of Copa America.

The Rise of a New Generation (2018-Current)

After the failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, the USMNT landscape began to shift. A greater emphasis was placed on integrating younger players into the national team, even as it became increasingly difficult for the U.S. to schedule friendlies against top-level opponents from Europe and South America.

2021 – USA 3-2 Mexico (Nations League)

This extra-time win sparked a period of dominance over Mexico.

2022 – USA 3-0 Morocco (Friendly)

A victory over the eventual fourth-place finisher at the 2022 World Cup.

2022 – USA 1-0 Iran (World Cup)

A first-half strike from Christian Pulisic propels the U.S. into the knockout stage.

2023 – USA 3-0 Mexico (Nations League)

A dominant semifinal win preceded Gregg Berhalter’s rehiring.

2024 -USA 2-0 Mexico (Nations League)

Another victory over El Tri, extending the unbeaten run to seven matches.

A Chance to Win will bring in New Believers Ahead of 2026

The USMNT has a prime opportunity to build momentum and attract new supporters ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with upcoming friendlies against European powers Belgium, Portugal, and Germany, along with AFCON champions Senegal. These high-profile matchups offer a rare spotlight and a chance to measure themselves against the world’s best.

A deep World Cup run, reaching the quarterfinals or beyond, would go a long way toward winning and retaining new fans. But to truly grow the fanbase, success must be consistent, with fewer lapses and a standard of performance that reinforces belief long after the tournament ends.

USMNT

Breaking the Mold: Freese a Unique USMNT Goalkeeper

Published

4 months ago

December 12, 2025

Thomas Deschaine

Thomas Deschaine (@uskeeper on X and us_keeper on Instagram)

With only the March window left before Mauricio Pochettino finalizes the 2026 World Cup roster, one major question remains: who can truly be trusted to guard the net? It’s a debate still dividing media, fans, and observers alike.

The USMNT has produced some legendary goalkeepers over the past four decades, but the current pool has yet to see anyone truly seize the No. 1 spot. For a while, it looked like Matt Turner might start in back-to-back World Cups, but after a poor summer performance against Switzerland, he lost his place to Matt Freese. Freese went on to start the last thirteen matches, yet outside of his heroics in the 2025 Gold Cup penalty shootout, echoing Turner’s run in 2023, Freese hasn’t fully convinced me he should be the starter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Since the 1990 cycle, five USMNT goalkeepers, Tony Meola, Kasey Keller, Brad Friedel, Tim Howard, and Matt Turner, have earned the World Cup starting role. Each of them logged minutes in the grueling World Cup qualifying process before taking the job. But Matt Freese could become the first USMNT goalkeeper to start a World Cup without ever playing a single qualifier.

Tony Meola – 1990 Italy World Cup

1990 World Cup Finals, Florence, Italy, 10th June, 1990, Czechoslovakia 5 v USA 1, USA’s goalkeeper Tony Meola shouting instructions to his defenders (Photo by Bob Thomas Sports Photography via Getty Images)

Creator: Bob Thomas | Credit: Getty Images

Tony Meola remains the youngest goalkeeper ever to start a World Cup for the USMNT. He went on to start in back-to-back tournaments and later served as the backup at the 2002 World Cup alongside Brad Friedel and Kasey Keller.

First Cap (Age) – June 7, 1998 (19 years, 3 month & 17 days)

World Cup 1990 (Age) – (21 years, 3 months, 10 days)

Overall Stats heading into the World Cup
Matches Played – 17
Matches Started – 15
Minutes Played – 1,395
Wins – 7
Shutouts – 6

World Cup Qualifying Stats
Matches Played – 4
Matches Started – 4
Minutes Played – 360
Wins – 2
Shutouts – 4

Kasey Keller – 1998 France World Cup

21 Jun 1998: USA goalkeeper Kasey Keller throws out during the World Cup group F game against Iran at the Stade Gerland in Lyon, France. Iran won 2-1. \ Mandatory Credit: Ben Radford /Allsport

Kasey Keller, one of the backups to Tony Meola at the 1990 World Cup, was left off the 1994 roster but later reestablished himself in the USMNT picture. He went on to become the primary starter for the 1998 and 2006 World Cups and served as the backup on the 2002 team.

Creator: Ben Radford | Credit: Getty Images

First Cap (Age) – February 4, 1990 (20 years, 2 months & 6 days)

World Cup 1998 (Age) – (28 years, 6 months, 15 days)

Overall Stats heading into the World Cup
Matches Played – 34
Matches Started – 33
Minutes Played – 2,790
Wins – 18
Shutouts – 16

World Cup Qualifying Stats
Matches Played – 9
Matches Started – 9
Minutes Played – 810
Wins – 5
Shutouts – 6

Brad Friedel – 2002 Korea/Japan World Cup

1 Sep 2001: USA Goalkeeper Brad Friedel organises his defence during the FIFA 2002 World Cup Qualifier between USA and Honduras played at the RFK Stadium in Washington, USA. Honduras won the match 3 – 2. \ Mandatory Credit: Clive Brunskill /Allsport

Creator: Clive Brunskill | Credit: Getty Images

Brad Friedel, who started all five U.S. matches at the 2002 World Cup and made one start in 1998, earned a place on three USMNT World Cup squads during his career.

First Cap (Age) – September 3, 1992 (21 years, 3 months, 16 days)

World Cup 2002 (Age) – (31 years, 0 months, 5 days)

Overall Stats heading into the World Cup
Matches Played – 76
Matches Started – 74
Minutes Played – 6,453
Wins – 25
Shutouts – 23

World Cup Qualifying Stats
Matches Played – 13
Matches Started – 13
Minutes Played – 1,125
Wins – 7
Shutouts – 4

Tim Howard – 2010 South Africa

Creator: Ronald Wittek | Credit: Alamy

Tim Howard, the oldest first-time World Cup starter among this group, may also be the most accomplished. He appeared on three World Cup rosters, and likely would have made a fourth had the USMNT qualified in 2018.

First Cap (Age) – March 10, 2002 (23 years, 0 months, 4 days)

World Cup 2010 (Age) – (31 years, 3 months, 12 days)

Overall Stats heading into the World Cup
Matches Played – 51
Matches Started – 50
Minutes Played – 4,185
Wins – 31
Shutouts – 23

World Cup Qualifying Stats
Matches Played – 16
Matches Started – 16
Minutes Played – 1,440
Wins – 12
Shutouts – 8

Matt Turner – 2022 Qatar

goalkeeper Matt Turner of the United States clears the ball away with a header during the World Cup, group B soccer match between the United States and Wales, at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Doha, Qatar, Monday, Nov. 21, 2022. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Creator: Francisco Seco | Credit: AP

Turner seized his opportunity when an unwell Zack Steffen was forced off the roster to start the World Cup qualifying, stepping in to start the first of eight World Cup qualifiers. His performances solidified his place as the USMNT’s starting goalkeeper for the 2022 World Cup.

First Cap (Age) – January 31, 2021 (26 years, 9 months, 3 days)

World Cup 2022 (Age) – (28 years, 4 months, 21 days)

Overall Stats heading into the World Cup
Matches Played – 20
Matches Started – 20
Minutes Played – 1,800
Wins – 14
Shutouts – 14

World Cup Qualifying Stats
Matches Played – 8
Matches Started – 8
Minutes Played – 720
Wins – 4
Shutouts – 4

Matt Freese

Courtesy USMNT

Matt Freese would have the shortest runway of any USMNT goalkeeper, from earning his first cap to potentially starting at a World Cup. He would also become the first U.S. keeper to start at a World Cup without having played a single World Cup qualifier.

First Cap (Age) – June 5, 2025 (26 years, 9 months, 3 days)

World Cup 2026 (Age) – (27 years, 9 months, 12 days)

Overall Stats heading into the World Cup
Matches Played – 13
Matches Started – 13
Minutes Played – 1,170
Wins – 7*
Shutouts – 3*

World Cup Qualifying Stats
Matches Played – n/a
Matches Started – n/a
Minutes Played – n/a
Wins – n/a
Shutouts – n/a

It’s clear the USMNT doesn’t have a true front-runner in goal even though Mauricio Pochettino currently leans toward Matt Freese, but as we’ve seen, things can change fast. Matt Turner, Patrick Schulte, Chris Brady, Roman Celentano, and Jonathan Klinsmann will all need to push hard to earn their place on the final roster.