Who Should Start for USMNT vs. Belgium

The United States Men's National Team (USMNT) is set to take on Belgium in an upcoming international friendly, a match that promises to test the mettle of the American squad amidst their ongoing preparations for the 2026 World Cup. As the team looks to solidify its roster, head coach Gregg Berhalter is faced with critical decisions regarding his starting lineup.

Goalkeeper: Steffen vs. Turner

One of the key battles is between Zack Steffen and Matt Turner. While Steffen has recently regained his form at Middlesbrough, Turner's consistent performances for Nottingham Forest in the Premier League make him a strong contender. Turner's recent clean sheets and command in the box could give him the edge.

Defensive Line: Trust in Youth or Experience?

In defense, the USMNT has a wealth of options. Sergiño Dest, currently impressing at PSV Eindhoven, is likely to secure the right-back spot, while Antonee Robinson, with his solid displays at Fulham, should start on the left. At center-back, Chris Richards and Miles Robinson offer a blend of youth and reliability. However, veteran Tim Ream's experience might prove invaluable against a formidable Belgian attack.

Midfield: Balancing Creativity and Stability

The midfield poses a dilemma between creativity and stability. Tyler Adams, if fit, is a likely starter given his leadership and tenacity. Yunus Musah's dynamic play at AC Milan makes him a favorite for a starting role, while Weston McKennie's box-to-box capabilities provide balance. The inclusion of Brenden Aaronson could inject additional creativity, especially if the team opts for a more aggressive setup.

Attack: Pulisic Leads the Charge

The attacking front is likely to be spearheaded by Christian Pulisic, whose recent form at AC Milan has been nothing short of spectacular. Partnering him could be Timothy Weah, leveraging his pace on the wings, and Ricardo Pepi, whose scoring prowess in the Eredivisie has reignited his form. Gio Reyna, if fit, remains an invaluable option for further offensive firepower.

Conclusion

As the USMNT prepares to face Belgium, Gregg Berhalter's selections will hinge on finding the right balance between form and chemistry. This friendly offers a critical opportunity to test strategies and build cohesion ahead of more competitive fixtures. With the eyes of American soccer fans keenly watching, the chosen lineup will be expected to deliver both performance and promise.