On a lively evening in Columbus, Ohio, at the Lower.com Field Stadium, the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) took on Japan in an international friendly that carried more significance than its “friendly” label suggested. The Americans came into this clash under pressure following a string of disappointing results, most notably their defeat to South Korea. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino knew his team needed not just a win, but also a convincing performance to restore confidence ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The USMNT delivered exactly that, securing a 2-0 victory over a strong Japanese side ranked 17th in the world. Beyond the scoreline, the match showcased tactical evolution, improved squad depth, and renewed energy across the team.

Tactical Setup and Starting XI

For this match, Mauricio Pochettino deployed a 3-4-2-1 formation, deviating from the back-four system that had struggled in recent outings. This tactical shift was crucial, as it allowed the US to maintain compactness defensively while still providing attacking width through wing-backs.

  • Defensive Trio: Tim Ream, Chris Richards, and Tristan Blackmon provided stability in the back line. Ream’s experience anchored the defense, while Richards and Blackmon offered athleticism and coverage against Japan’s pacey forwards.
  • Wing-backs: Max Arfsten and Alex Freeman played pivotal roles, pushing high up the pitch to support attacks but also tracking back to ensure Japan couldn’t exploit the flanks.
  • Midfield Engine: Weston McKennie and Yunus Musah controlled the central areas, breaking up play and distributing quickly to the forwards.
  • Attack: Christian Pulisic operated in a free role behind striker Folarin Balogun, while Alejandro Zendejas offered direct running and creativity on the opposite side.

The formation gave the US balance — compact defensively, yet dynamic in transition.

Match Flow and Goals

First Half – Control and Breakthrough

The opening stages saw both sides test each other cautiously. Japan enjoyed spells of possession, but the American defense stood firm. The breakthrough came in the 30th minute when Alejandro Zendejas capitalized on a perfectly delivered cross from Max Arfsten. Zendejas struck first-time from inside the penalty area, leaving Japan’s goalkeeper with no chance.

The goal electrified the stadium and gave the USMNT much-needed momentum. For Zendejas, it was a statement performance, as he continues to fight for a permanent spot in the starting XI.

Second Half – Balogun Ends His Drought

In the 64th minute, the US doubled their advantage. Christian Pulisic, constantly drawing defenders with his movement, slipped a clever pass into the path of Folarin Balogun. The striker timed his run to perfection, evaded the defensive line, and slotted the ball into the bottom corner.

For Balogun, the goal was especially significant — his first international strike in over a year. It lifted a weight off his shoulders and reminded fans why he remains one of the team’s most promising attacking weapons.

Standout Performances

  • Matt Freese (Goalkeeper): The unsung hero of the night. Freese produced six crucial saves, including a reflex stop against Junya Ito that could have shifted momentum had Japan equalized. His performance has sparked debate over who should be the US’s number one goalkeeper heading into the World Cup.
  • Folarin Balogun (Striker): Scoring after a year-long drought, Balogun not only boosted his confidence but also added depth to the USMNT’s attacking options. His link-up play with Pulisic was encouraging and will be key in tougher fixtures.
  • Alejandro Zendejas (Winger): His energy and directness stretched Japan’s defense all night. Scoring the opener solidified his status as one of the most effective impact players in the squad.
  • Max Arfsten & Alex Freeman (Wing-backs): Both players were instrumental. Arfsten assisted the first goal, while Freeman provided defensive solidity and attacking overlaps, showing the value of Pochettino’s system.

Japan’s Struggles

Japan, despite their technical ability and fluid passing game, found it difficult to break down the US’s compact 3-4-2-1 structure. Their midfield lacked penetration, and while their wingers tried to exploit spaces, the US defense cut off most channels effectively.

The Japanese team managed a few half-chances, but poor finishing and Freese’s excellent goalkeeping meant they left Columbus frustrated. For a team usually praised for efficiency, Japan lacked sharpness in the final third.

Significance of the Result

While a friendly on paper, this match carried weight. The USMNT had not beaten a top-20 ranked opponent since the last World Cup, and this win served as a morale boost. It reassured fans and silenced critics who had questioned Pochettino’s tactics and team selections after recent struggles.

The result also highlighted squad depth. Players like Zendejas and Arfsten proved they can step up when called upon, giving Pochettino more flexibility in rotating his lineup.

Lessons and Takeaways

  1. Formation Flexibility: The 3-4-2-1 worked well against Japan, but Pochettino must test it against higher-ranked teams from South America and Europe to see if it holds up under greater pressure.
  2. Goalkeeper Debate: Matt Freese made a strong case to be the starting goalkeeper, though competition remains open with other experienced names in the squad.
  3. Balogun’s Confidence: Getting his scoring touch back is vital. If he continues this form, he could be the focal point of the US attack at the World Cup.
  4. Squad Depth: Emerging talents like Zendejas, Arfsten, and Freeman give the team new energy, ensuring the US is not overly reliant on Pulisic or McKennie.

Conclusion

The USA vs Japan friendly was far more than just another warm-up match. It was a showcase of tactical adjustments, squad depth, and growing confidence within the USMNT. With less than a year to go before the World Cup kicks off on home soil, the Americans look to be building momentum at the right time.

If they can maintain this balance of tactical discipline and attacking creativity, the USMNT may enter the 2026 World Cup not just as hosts, but as genuine contenders capable of surprising the world.


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