Gio Reyna Resurges with Brace in USMNT Victory
After 503 days without being a starter with the US national team and 602 days without scoring, Gio Reyna shone in the USMNT’s 2-1 friendly victory against Paraguay. The match, played on a cold night outside of Philadelphia, marked an important step forward for Reyna in his quest to secure a place in his second consecutive World Cup. Reyna’s performance was even more remarkable considering the few minutes he has had with Borussia Mönchengladbach this season. However, the confidence of coach Mauricio Pochettino, who informed Reyna on Friday that he would be a starter, was quickly rewarded.- USMNT player evaluation: Reyna impresses with 9/10 on his return.
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“Honestly, I had no idea,” Reyna said about surpassing his father. “I didn’t know how many goals he had, so I was happy to score, happy to be back. I sent him some messages after the game, but he was happy for me, so it’s nice.”
Gio Reyna
Although he made a mistake in the play of Paraguay’s goal, Reyna’s performance was outstanding. He played 75 minutes, his longest time in a match since December 2024. His lack of minutes with Gladbach is due to an injury and his adaptation to the new club, but the support of the coaching staff has been fundamental in his recovery.
Coach Pochettino acknowledged the importance of Reyna improving his game with his club, but praised his performance in the match. The USMNT, with a squad with important absences, demonstrated its ability to compete, pressing Paraguay until achieving victory. The next challenge for the USMNT will be against Uruguay, a team known for its physical play. Reyna, with renewed confidence, will seek to prove that he is back to stay.“I feel very good, valued, important, ready to play. Mentally, that allows you to play better on the field,” Reyna added about his current moment.
Gio Reyna
