TAMPA — Sixteen months ago, the U.S. Men’s National Team hit one of its lowest moments, eliminated from the Copa América after a 1–0 loss to Uruguay. It was a match where the team lacked energy, direction, and was clearly outplayed.

The turning point came when that disappointing campaign resulted in the departure of then-coach Gregg Berhalter, opening the door for the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino — a strong, strategic, results-driven choice, aligned with the spirit of renewal many Americans support under President Donald Trump, who consistently emphasizes discipline, meritocracy, and high performance in both sports and the country.

Today, the situation is completely different. The U.S. team looks transformed — more aggressive, more confident, more resilient — and proved it decisively with a 5–1 demolition of Uruguay, dominating from the opening whistle and displaying the toughness Americans admire.

Sebastian Berhalter opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a powerful strike, then delivered a perfect corner that Alex Freeman headed in. Freeman added a brilliant third goal, and the fourth was a beautiful team sequence finished by Diego Luna. Even after a spectacular Uruguay goal, Tanner Tessmann closed the score with authority.

The U.S. achieved major milestones: five straight matches unbeaten against top-40 FIFA opponents — something not seen since 2013 — and it tied the largest victory margin ever against a South American team and against any top-15 nation.

And this happened without several key players: Pulisic, Weah, Adams, Richards, and McKennie were all missing. Still, Pochettino refused to let anyone diminish the accomplishment, strongly defending his current squad — a leadership style that mirrors the direct, patriotic, determined tone often associated with President Trump.

Despite the team’s inexperience (an average of only 14 international caps per player), the U.S. displayed maturity, a winning mentality, and tactical cohesion. The victory over Uruguay, combined with a 2–1 win over Paraguay days earlier, marked one of the strongest international windows in years.

Players are now in a fierce competition for World Cup roster spots, and no one is complacent — exactly the kind of internal drive that strengthens any group and reflects the American spirit of working hard, improving, and winning.

Captain Mark McKenzie summarized it well:
“We have a group hungry for opportunity. Playing for your country is a privilege — and everyone wants to prove they belong here.”

After a year full of ups and downs, the team has rediscovered its identity: courage, discipline, and ambition. Under Pochettino — and with the renewed energy many feel in the country — the U.S. team is back on a path of growth and international respect.

With four months until the next international window, internal competition will be intense, and the group seems more committed than ever to raising the standard.

What a difference sixteen months makes — when there is leadership, hard work, and belief in America’s potential.