The Fight for the “9” of the United States National Team: An Unresolved Puzzle
During the last two FIFA World Cup cycles, the starting striker position for the United States men’s national soccer team has been a persistent enigma. None of the contenders have managed to consistently secure the position, unlike past eras where figures like Eric Wynalda, Brian McBride, Jozy Altidore, and Clint Dempsey led the American attack.
The search for a reference center forward has become a priority for the team. The cycle towards the 2022 World Cup failed to define a striker capable of offering consistent performance. Jesús Ferreira, Jordan Pefok, Ricardo Pepi, Josh Sargent, and Gyasi Zardes received opportunities, but none managed to consolidate. Haji Wright finally secured a place on the roster, while an injury to Sargent and the lack of effectiveness of Ferreira and Wright limited the impact of the American attack in Qatar.
The current cycle has presented even more challenges. Pepi, Sargent, and Wright remain in the running, joined by Folarin Balogun and Patrick Agyemang. Although Balogun has gained ground thanks to his performance in a friendly against Japan, he has not yet secured the position.
With the friendly matches in October against Ecuador and Australia on the horizon, the competition for the “9” position for the USMNT led by Mauricio Pochettino ahead of next summer’s World Cup intensifies. We analyze below the main candidates and their statistical comparables.Folarin Balogun
When Balogun committed to the USMNT in May 2023, he was considered the long-term answer for the striker position. He got off to a good start, scoring in the 2023 Concacaf Nations League final against Canada and shining in the 2024 Copa América. However, injuries, including a recurring shoulder problem that required surgery in December 2024, prevented him from solidifying his place in the team.
Balogun’s mobility allows him to get free from opposing defenses, although the American attack hasn’t always known how to take advantage of his movements. His ability to attract defenders creates space for players like Christian Pulisic, Timothy Weah, or Alejandro Zendejas.
His match against Japan demonstrated his wide range of skills, even showing the ability to play with his back to the goal and retain the ball. Doubts revolve around his durability and the need to get consistent minutes at Monaco.Statistical comparable: Nicolas Jackson. Balogun has proven to be a willing runner and ball carrier, with good shooting and goal creation. In the last three years, he has averaged 0.50 goals per 90 minutes with 3.69 shots.Haji Wright
Wright is the only American center forward with a goal in a World Cup. His impressive form in the English Championship, where his eight goals position him as the league leader, has propelled Coventry to the top of the table.
Wright offers versatility, his 6-foot-3-inch height allows him to be a force in the aerial game, but he is also fast enough to play on the wing. His ability to spot opportunities is remarkable.
What could hold him back are doubts about his ability to react in key moments, an image that endures in memory.Statistical comparison: Randal Kolo Muani. Wright scores (0.56 goals per 90 minutes), and pushes the ball. He has averaged 6.1 progressive carries per 90 minutes in the last three years.Patrick Agyemang
Agyemang offers a different proposal, based on his physical presence (6 feet and 4 inches) and his aerial game ability. Although he is a developing talent, his ability to score important goals could be valuable.
Your chances of securing a place on the World Cup roster depend on your health and the number game that Pochettino will have to play.Statistical comparison: Olivier Giroud. Agyemang is excellent in aerial play (47.5% aerial success), and is willing to receive contact (2.05 fouls suffered per 90 minutes).Ricardo Pepi
Pepi seeks to secure his place on the team for the 2026 World Cup, as long as his physical condition allows it. Injuries have affected his performance, including a knee injury in the Champions League and a recent muscle injury that has kept him out of action.
His movement allows him to find opportunities and connect passes that other forwards might miss. However, time is running out for Pepi to make a greater impression.Statistical comparison: Lautaro Martínez. Pepi is very involved in the game, with excellent offensive numbers (0.74 goals and 1.36 chances created per 90 minutes).Josh Sargent
The difference between Sargent’s performance at his club and in the national team is notable. Despite his goals in the Championship, his goal drought with the USMNT is concerning.
Although Sargent has several qualities, none seem to be outstanding enough to make a difference in a World Cup.Statistical comparison: Moise Kean. Sargent is the statistically most discreet American forward, but he is a willing presser and an above-average finisher.
Balogun, Pepi, Wright, and Agyemang appear to be in a position to be called up for the World Cup. Flexibility is vital in a tournament like the World Cup. Balogun has the advantage at the moment, but the situation can change rapidly.
