Alex Freeman, the fullback, scored twice to propel the United States to an impressive 5-1 win against Uruguay Tuesday night at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.
Utilizing set pieces effectively, the U.S. took the lead in the 17th minute when midfielder Sebastian Berhalter found the net with a free kick. Three minutes later, Freeman added a header off a corner taken by Berhalter, increasing the advantage. By the 31st minute, Freeman was on the score sheet again, completing a well-deserved brace.
Seeking even more, the U.S. then made it 4-0 with a goal from Diego Luna in the 42nd minute, shortly before Uruguay’s Giorgian de Arrascaeta scored a spectacular bicycle kick to reduce it to 4-1 by halftime.
However, Uruguay’s chance of a comeback took a hit when captain Rodrigo Bentancur received a red card early in the second half. With the numerical advantage, the U.S. made the most of their opportunities, and in the 68th minute, substitute Tanner Tessmann headed in off a cross from Gio Reyna, bringing the final score to 5-1.
This resounding victory marks an impressive end for the Americans heading into 2025, with Coach Mauricio Pochettino and his squad maintaining a five-match unbeaten streak heading into a World Cup year.
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Manager Rating
Mauricio Pochettino: 9 — It’s becoming increasingly difficult to find fault with Pochettino. While there have been some bumps along the way, he has successfully begun to transform U.S. culture and roster in 2025. Over the past three windows, noticeable progress has been made. Whether he has identified his ideal XI may not be crucial, as his strategic adjustments have spurred competition and a five-game unbeaten streak. Pochettino’s willingness to alternate between a 3-4-2-1 and a 4-3-3 formation has yielded significant results.
Player Ratings (0-10; 10 = best, 5 = average)
GK Matt Freese: 7 — Although he receives some deductions for a moment of miscommunication that almost led to an Uruguayan goal, Freese performed admirably overall, making a critical save and commanding the area well.
DF John Tolkin: 7 — Showed good offensive skills on the left side, connecting effectively with the midfield, though he occasionally faded compared to more active teammates.
DF Auston Trusty: 7 — Faced few challenges and provided an assist for Freeman’s goal.
DF Mark McKenzie: 6 — Lost track of his assignment during Uruguay’s sole goal but generally partnered well with Trusty.
DF Alex Freeman: 9 — With two goals and significant defensive contributions, Freeman’s performance was nothing short of stellar—arguably the man of the match.
MF Aidan Morris: 6 — Looked a bit hesitant at times, probably because he had to fall back to support the defense. Nevertheless, he deserves credit for registering a shot on goal.
MF Timmy Tillman: 8 — Stood out with his passing and made a crucial tackle that set up one of Freeman’s goals. Even though his assist on Luna’s goal came off a slight deflection, it was a significant contribution.
MF Sebastian Berhalter: 9 — Scored a stunning goal, provided a precise assist as the key set-piece taker, and made several important defensive recoveries. An impressive performance from Berhalter.
FW Sergiño Dest: 8 — Provided an understated assist for Berhalter and demonstrated his ability to contribute offensively while playing as a risk-taking right winger, showing no hesitation in the attacking third.
FW Haji Wright: 7 — While he didn’t find the net, Wright played an important role in winning balls and drawing fouls in critical situations.
FW Diego Luna: 8 — Initially struggled to connect his passes, but later contributed significantly to the scoreline with a well-executed run and finish. He also aided his teammates defensively.
Substitutes (players introduced after 70 minutes do not receive a rating)
FW Gio Reyna: 8 — Reyna energized the second half and provided an assist for Tessman’s goal.
MF Tanner Tessman: 8 — Scored his first international goal with a header that effectively crushed any chance of a Uruguayan comeback.
FW Folarin Bolagun: 6 — Had limited time to make an impact but also contributed defensively with a couple of recoveries.
DF Max Arfsten: N/A — Showed promise with accurate passes moving forward.
MF Brenden Aaronson: N/A — Limited touches after coming on as a substitute.
MF Cristian Roldan: N/A — Entered the match in the 89th minute.