United States Falls to Turkey in Preparation for Gold Cup
The United States men’s national soccer team, with a squad far from its best form, began its preparation for the Gold Cup with a 2-1 defeat to Turkey in a friendly match held at Pratt & Whitney Stadium on Saturday. Despite starting with an advantage thanks to Jack McGlynn’s goal in the first minute, the United States couldn’t maintain the pace and suffered two quick goals from Arda Güler and Kerem Aktürkoglu.
The next challenge for the USMNT will be against Switzerland in Nashville, Tennessee, on Tuesday.
Turkey dominated in duels, aerial duels, and had greater effectiveness in tackles against the Americans, who lost intensity as the match progressed. The lack of mental recovery after the goals in the first half will force coach Mauricio Pochettino to seek solutions in the provisional squad, which is expected to “fight for a place” in the FIFA World Cup 2026. The absence of key figures like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Antonee Robinson, Sergiño Dest, and others, has left significant gaps that have yet to be filled. If this group of players doesn’t show improvement or a stronger mentality against Switzerland, it could be a sign of a long summer in the Gold Cup.It’s difficult to find positive aspects in the experimental starting eleven, with an average age of 23.8 years.
Match Analysis
The Search for the Center Forward
Patrick Agyemang, who was hoping for a special return to his hometown of East Hartford, had the opportunity to be the starting forward. Although he used his physicality effectively, his touch often failed, especially when Diego Luna passed him the ball. Agyemang only registered one shot on goal, and Pochettino continues to look for a solution for the center forward position. Haji Wright played 25 minutes, but was deployed in a more open position, and didn’t have much involvement. Agyemang was substituted for Brian White in the 75th minute, but the Vancouver Whitecaps forward barely touched the ball.
Cardoso and the Inconsistency in Midfield
Johnny Cardoso, despite being a valued player in the market, has not managed to replicate his club performance with the US national team. A mistake in a pass within his own area, which resulted in a goal for Turkey, evidenced his lack of precision.
Luca de la Torre was a bright spot in the first half, completing 38 of 39 passes, but the lack of solidity when playing with Cardoso was evident. Tyler Adams’s entry in the second half brought more solidity to the midfield, although Turkey didn’t press as much.
Need for Chemistry in Defense
The inexperience of the full-backs in the starting eleven led to a lack of defensive cohesion. Max Arfsten, in his fourth appearance, had difficulties winning duels and connecting crosses. Alex Freeman, in his debut, did not stand out, allowing Turkey attacking opportunities.
These defensive errors, along with Cardoso’s start, destabilized the American defense, generating problems for Chris Richards and Miles Robinson. Pochettino will have to refine his strategy and try new options on the flanks.
