ATLANTA — Matt Turner took the position of goalkeeper for the United States during the friendly match against Belgium on Saturday, which opens the door for him to potentially reclaim the starting role from Matt Freese ahead of the World Cup.
At 31 years old, Turner previously served as the U.S. starter during the 2022 World Cup, but had not been on the field for the national squad since a friendly match with Switzerland on June 10. Freese, now 27, took over the position last summer during the Concacaf Gold Cup and has started all six of the team’s friendlies since last fall.
Antonee Robinson, who has recovered from leg injuries, returned to the starting lineup for his first match since November 18, 2024, at the left-back position.
With right back Sergiño Dest, defenders Chris Richards and Miles Robinson, along with midfielder Tyler Adams sidelined due to injuries, coach Mauricio Pochettino opted to place Tim Weah as right back and assigned Tim Ream, Mark McKenzie, and Tanner Tessmann as the central defenders.
In midfield, Johnny Cardoso and Weston McKennie held the central positions, while Malik Tillman and Christian Pulisic played on the wings, with Folarin Balogun positioned as striker.