USMNT vs. Uruguay: The Final Showdown of 2025
As the U.S. Men's National Team prepares for their final match of the year against Uruguay, the anticipation is palpable. This friendly, set to take place on November 18, 2025, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, serves as a pivotal moment for the team under the leadership of coach Mauricio Pochettino. After enduring a challenging year filled with ups and downs, the USMNT finds itself in a stronger position, currently riding a four-match unbeaten streak. This match against Uruguay offers the perfect opportunity to gauge how far the team has come since their last encounter, which ended in disappointment at the Copa America the previous year.
The match marks an important point in Pochettino's tenure, with the coach’s influence on the team becoming increasingly visible. A year ago, the USMNT suffered a loss to Uruguay in Kansas City that helped set the stage for the leadership change that brought Pochettino to the helm. Under the Argentine coach, the team has undergone a complete overhaul, both in terms of tactics and mindset. Pochettino emphasized the importance of not continuing with the same project when things aren’t working, a sentiment that reflects the drastic changes that have taken place in the team since his arrival.
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This upcoming match is also a chance to reflect on the changes in the lineup. Pochettino has made nine changes from the previous match against Paraguay, with only goalkeeper Matt Freese and defender Sergiño Dest retaining their starting positions. The lineup features a mix of experienced players and emerging talent. Notable inclusions are center-back Mark McKenzie, who will captain the side for the first time, and the return of Diego Luna, who makes his first start since September. The team also sees the debut of 21-year-old Orlando City defender Alex Freeman, who is making his 13th appearance for the USMNT.
The USMNT’s squad for this match boasts a blend of youth and experience, with the starting XI averaging 14 caps and an age of just 25 years. With a mix of players accustomed to Pochettino's high-intensity, attack-focused approach, fans are eager to see how the team will fare against a tough opponent like Uruguay. Pochettino's tactical changes, including a shift to a back-three formation, have made the team more dynamic, and the match against Uruguay will provide a true test of how well they can execute this style on the international stage.
As for the match itself, the USMNT is looking to extend its unbeaten streak and close out the year on a high note. With their physicality, intensity, and growing tactical understanding, the U.S. team aims to challenge Uruguay, a team known for its aggressive pressing and fast transitions. In recent games, the USMNT has shown an improved ability to manage the tempo, press aggressively when needed, and control possession, all elements Pochettino will expect from his players.
This friendly offers more than just a chance to secure another win; it represents a culmination of Pochettino's work in molding a new identity for the team. With just a few months left until the 2026 World Cup, the USMNT’s trajectory under Pochettino appears to be one of growth and progress. Despite the challenges of a truncated schedule and limited training time, the foundation for the future is being built, with the team showing signs of a cohesive unit ready to take on the world. As Pochettino said, "We need to be realistic and do the impossible," and for the USMNT, that journey is just beginning.
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